Interior Stylists vs Interior Designers
Making a house a home is about crafting a space that feels like an extension of your personality. Every detail matters — from the layout of the rooms to the artwork on the walls.
But achieving this harmony isn't always easy. With so many design choices and trends, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. That's where professional help can be a game-changer. Experts bring both experience and a trained eye, helping you navigate the complexities of design and curate a space that reflects your individuality and aspirations.
But as you delve deeper into the process, you may face a common dilemma: should you hire an interior designer or an interior stylist? To help you make the right decision, let’s explore both professions and shed light on their respective roles, skills and services.
What does an interior designer do?
At their core, an interior designer is the architect of your home’s interior. Their primary purpose is to strike a balance between form and function to create a living space that is not only visually stunning but also a joy to live in.
Interior designers tend to focus on the structural aspects of a space, including layout planning, materials, and lighting. They also often involve themselves in practical considerations like safety, compliance, and accessibility.
Some of the typical tasks and responsibilities that fall under the purview of an interior designer include:
Space planning: They analyse the available space, consider your requirements, and determine the placement of walls, doors, windows, and furniture.
Selection of materials: Interior designers select all the materials used in the project, from flooring and wall coverings to lighting fixtures and cabinetry.
Collaboration with contractors: Working closely with contractors is all in a day’s work for interior designers. They oversee the construction and installation process.
Ensuring compliance: Compliance with building codes and regulations is crucial for safety and legal reasons, and it requires a thorough understanding of local building laws.
What does an interior stylist do?
In contrast to the functional focus of an interior designer, an interior stylist is primarily concerned with enhancing the visual appeal and ambiance of spaces. Interior styling involves selecting the perfect living room furniture, household decor, and soft furnishings.
Unlike interior designers, interior stylists aren't typically involved in structural decisions or major renovations. This makes their services an excellent choice for homeowners who already have a solid foundation but need help bringing their vision to life.
Key responsibilities of an interior stylist include:
Furniture and decor curation: Selecting and arranging pieces to create a harmonious and sophisticated ambiance.
Colour and lighting design: Crafting captivating colour palettes and illuminating spaces to enhance their inherent beauty.
Personal touch: Infusing spaces with a unique character, ensuring they reflect your individual style.
The Sawyer Dining Table and Sloane Cane Chair are beautifully illuminated in the warm light in @twopotatoesinasack’s dining space.
@thelisafeed creates a cosy and functional space in her combined living and kitchen area. Pictured: The Auburn Performance Fabric Sofa, Harper Sideboard, Ingrid Sherpa Chair, and Edith Cane Counter Stools.
Analysing the differences
While both interior designers and interior stylists contribute to creating beautiful spaces, their approaches and areas of expertise differ significantly:
Focus: Interior designers prioritise the functionality and structure of a space, while interior styling services focus on the aesthetics.
Scope of work: Interior designers handle major renovations and material selection, whereas interior stylists specialise in decorative enhancements, furniture selection, and styling.
Collaborators: Interior designers work closely with architects and contractors, while Interior stylists collaborate with furniture and decor suppliers.
Typical clients: Interior designers primarily cater to new or existing homeowners looking to undertake large-scale renovations. Interior stylists are more suitable for existing homeowners looking to add the finishing touches to their space.
When to engage an interior designer vs an interior stylist
An interior designer is your go-to expert when embarking on significant transformations, such as major renovations or building a new home from the ground up.
On the other hand, an interior stylist steps in when you're ready to infuse your existing space with a bespoke style. They have an eye for detail and a deep understanding of how visual textures, colours and accessories work together.
From choosing the ideal contemporary sofa that anchors your living room to picking accent chairs, ottoman footstools or artwork, interior stylists know how to select pieces that enhance the character of your home.
The Jonathan Extended Side Chaise Sectional Sofa makes a quiet statement in @bekhalliday’s living room.
The Hamilton Sofa and Amber Bouclé Swivel Chair adds a touch of modernity to @beauxarts107’s space.
Making an informed choice: Interior designer or stylist?
Both interior designers and interior stylists play distinct and valuable roles in designing a home. Interior designers are typically more influential at the earlier stages, during the conceptualisation and planning phases.
Interior stylists come into play later once the structural elements are in place. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that as homeowners, you’ll need to also play an active role in this process to ensure that the final outcome truly reflects your dream home.
One effective way you can contribute is by using a room designer tool to help designers and stylists visualise your design. This gives the stylist a valuable starting point and insight into your preferences, truly helping you bring your ideas to life.
