Ester White Gherea
By Ester White Gherea | WBN News | April 30, 2025
Let’s say you’re building your dream house. You know – the one with the secret reading nook, a bedroom that feels like a treehouse, and a living room big enough for all your friends (and snacks). But... who actually makes that happen?
Well, you’ll probably need an architect, an interior designer, and an interior decorator.
They might sound like they do the same thing, but they don’t. They’re like a team – each with a special job. And knowing the difference can help you ask for the right help at the right time. Let’s break it down in a fun and simple way:
🧱 The Architect: The Builder of Dreams (and Walls)
What they do: Architects are trained to design the structure of buildings. They draw plans that show where the walls, doors, windows, and stairs go. They also make sure the building is safe and follows city rules.
When you need one: When you’re building a house from scratch, adding another floor, or changing the structure (like knocking down a wall), you call an architect first.
Example: Imagine a family wants to build a brand-new two-story house with a big kitchen and three bedrooms upstairs. The architect designs the floor plan, makes sure the roof won’t leak, and that the walls won’t fall down. They also work with engineers to check plumbing, electricity, and how strong the foundation needs to be.
Architects are like the people who draw the map before you go on a trip. Without them, you'd get lost!
🛋️ The Interior Designer: The Space Problem-Solver
What they do: Interior designers figure out how the inside of a space works best. They plan where everything should go – the kitchen layout, furniture, lights, storage, even how wide a hallway should be. They focus on how spaces look good and work well at the same time.
When you need one: If your home is built or being built, and you want it to feel comfortable, efficient, and beautiful, an interior designer is the right person. They often work with architects or come in after the basic structure is done.
Example: A couple moves into a small apartment. The kitchen is cramped, and there's barely space for a table. An interior designer helps redesign the kitchen with better cabinets, adds a fold-out dining table, and suggests soft lighting to make the room feel bigger. They also plan where the sofa goes and choose the best flooring for easy cleaning.
Interior designers think about how you live – so your space feels just right for your everyday life.
🎨 The Interior Decorator: The Style Expert
What they do: Interior decorators focus on the style of a space – choosing colors, fabrics, furniture, art, and accessories. They don’t move walls or build things, but they know how to make a space look finished and fabulous.
When you need one: When your space is already built and furnished but doesn’t feel “done” or personal yet, decorators are the ones who add the magic touch.
Example: Someone moves into a rental apartment. Everything is beige and boring. An interior decorator helps choose colorful throw pillows, hanging lights, wall art, and a fun rug to make the space feel cozy and exciting – without changing any structure.
Decorators are like stylists for your home. They help tell your story through furniture and color.
📚 Quick Recap:
| Role | What They Do | When You Call Them |
|---|---|---|
| Architect | Designs the building structure | At the beginning – for new builds or major renovations |
| Interior Designer | Plans the layout and how the space functions | After or during construction |
| Interior Decorator | Styles the space with colors, furniture, and accessories | At the end – to add personality and beauty |
🌟 Why It Matters
Lots of people mix up these roles. Some hire a decorator when they need structural help. Others call an architect when all they want is new furniture. This can waste time and money – and leave you frustrated.
Knowing who does what helps you get the right help, the right results, and a home that truly feels like you.
🗣️ Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Have you ever been in a space that felt perfect? Or one that felt all wrong?
Did you ever wonder who made those choices – the layout, the light, the colors?
Tell me what you think! Which of the three – architect, interior designer, or decorator – would you want to be? Or maybe you’ve met one before? Share your thoughts in the comments or with a friend.
👉 Who would you call first if you were building your dream bedroom? Let’s talk about it!
Ester White Gherea is an Interior Designer and the founder of Gherea Studios.
She can be reached at 236-339-6644 or estergherea@gmail.com. Connect with Ester on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ester-white-gherea-6b339a2b5/. Connect with Ester at https://www.ghereastudio.com/.
TAGS: #InteriorDesign #TimelessStyle #DesignTrends #HomeDecor #ModernLiving #StylishSpaces #GhereaStudio
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