
What interior designers and decorators each do, how their services differ and how to choose the right help for your project.
The terms are often used interchangeably, but the roles can differ. A decorator focuses on the look of a space: furniture, color, textiles, art and accessories. An interior designer may do all of that and also plan layouts, specify materials, draw details for cabinets and built-ins, coordinate with builders and consider building rules. Rules about titles and the type of work a person may do vary, so it is wise to ask any professional about their scope.
The right choice depends on the project. A room refresh, new furniture and styling often suit a decorator. A kitchen remodel, a new build, a commercial space or anything that changes walls, lighting or plumbing benefits from the planning and coordination of a designer. In Nashville, many firms offer both, and a good one will tell you honestly which service fits. We explain the difference at your Free Estimate and recommend the simplest approach that will get you a beautiful result.
Furniture, color, textiles, art and styling.
Layouts, materials, details and coordination, plus decorating.
Constructs the work and manages trades.
Designs buildings and structure.
Offers design and construction together.
Lighting, kitchen and bath, and acoustic experts.
Bedroom DesignRestful bedrooms with the right bed, bedding, lighting, storage and textures for sleep and calm.Explore
Primary Suite DesignA private retreat combining bedroom, sitting area, closet and bath, planned to feel like a hotel suite at…Explore
Nursery and Kids Room DesignSafe, cheerful and flexible rooms for babies and children that grow as they do, with storage and play…Explore
Basement and Bonus Room DesignBasements and bonus rooms turned into lounges, play areas, bars or guest suites with warm light and smart…Explore
Interior DecoratingThe finishing layer that makes a house feel like home: furniture, color, textiles, art and accessories chosen to…Explore
Window Treatments and DraperyDrapery, shades, blinds and shutters chosen for light, privacy, insulation and style, measured and installed correctly.Explore
Art Selection and Gallery WallsArtwork chosen and arranged to suit your rooms, from a single statement piece to a full gallery wall.Explore
Vacation Rental and Airbnb DesignShort-term rental interiors that photograph well, wear well and give guests a memorable Nashville stay.Explore Plan a room, pick a style or ballpark a budget.
Room Size and Furniture Layout PlannerEnter your room size and furniture to see comfortable clearances, rug sizes and whether your pieces fit.Try it
Interior Design Style PickerAnswer a few questions about your taste, light and lifestyle to see which interior styles usually fit and what to look at next.Try it
Interior Design Project Budget PlannerPick a room or service, set the size and add extras to see a ballpark planning range for design and furnishing. Placeholder values only.Try it Not always. A decorator or a consultation may be enough for furniture and styling.
A designer or kitchen specialist, working with your contractor.
Yes. Many firms offer decorating and design services.
Comparison guideDesign Styles ComparedModern farmhouse, traditional, transitional, mid-century, rustic and eclectic styles compared by look, feel and best use.Learn more
Comparison guidePaint Finishes ComparedFlat, matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss and gloss compared for look, cleaning and the surfaces that suit each.Learn more
Comparison guideFlooring Types ComparedHardwood, engineered wood, tile, luxury vinyl plank, laminate and carpet compared for look, comfort and durability.Learn more
Comparison guideCountertop Materials ComparedQuartz, granite, marble, quartzite, butcher block and concrete compared for look, durability and care.Learn more Call us and describe your project. We will look at your space, talk through ideas and give you a clear written estimate.