Designers vs. Decorators-What's in a Name?

I often struggle with what to call myself and worry that I may upset those that have actually earned a degree in interior design. So what's the difference in a designer and a decorator? This article featured on HGTV's blog, pretty much sums it up. Brian Patrick Flynn interviewed several interior designers and decorators to get their views on the D-words. You can read it here.

Here are a few of my favorite quotes from the article.

I believe that decorating is a word that means to create beautiful things and spaces. -Michael Habachy, Interior Designer

I would guess that most people associate designers with formal training and a degree. However, in my opinion, nothing beats learning by doing. Bottom line — you either have it, or you don’t. Some things you can’t learn in school; style is one of them. -Ronda Carman, Blogger

Technically, I’m considered the four-syllable D-word since (a) I’m self-taught, (b) I care more about tailoring, upholstery and objects than repositioning doors and windows and (c) I possess the drawing skills of a kindergartner. But I fully embrace it, reserving “designer” for those who are formally-trained, with tens of thousands of dollars in student loans to prove it. -Brian Patrick Flynn, Interior Decorator

P.S. The design genius that is Martha Stewart will be on Oprah today! Don't miss it!
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