Are youunsure about the difference between an interior designer andaninterior stylist?
Designers often get asked how these two professionals are different, and the answer isn't always straightforward as there's generally some overlap between the two. However, there are many aspects of each role that are distinctiveand specialised, andboth require a uniqueskillset.We’ve compiled this guide to give you an overview of howinterior designers and interior stylistscompare.
In 2020, theworldwide interior design market was estimated to be worth approximately $150.7 billion.It is clear that the industry is growing rapidly so if you’rekeento pursue a careerinthis area, you’ll need to have an understanding ofthese two disciplinesand theirrolein the designlandscape.We spoke to Interior Stylist and UAL short course tutor, Emma Morton-Turner, to get the lowdown on these two roles.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in interior design, you mayfind our guide on how to become an interior designer a usefulstarting point for some practical advice and inspiration from industry professionals.
So, what do interior designers do?
An interiordesigneris responsible for theoveralldesign and layout ofaninternal space in a private or commercial property.This involvesmanagingall the factors that make up that space, fromsurfaces andwall coveringsto furnishingsand accessories.
"Interiordesignerswill design the space, what’s going on the walls, what’s going on the ceiling, whatfurnitureis going in -all of those details," says Emma. This is often a big task that generally involves working closely with clients to manage briefs and develop a clear vision for a particular space that fulfils a client's specific needs and budget. Managing client expectations and emotions is an important aspect of the job, as Emma points out, "you have to work with their emotions and preconceived ideas", which can be something of a balancing act in itself.
Interior designers may have input on building configurations and specifications and shouldtake into accountallthe practical elements that ultimately shape the internal design,like heatingoutlets, electricalsocketplans, tiling and lighting fixtures. The decision-making process cantake some time,sodesignersoften produce 2D or 3D plans andliveschedules which act as amock-upof the way that the layout and space will come together, which can betheneditedifnecessary.
What do interior stylists do?
Interior stylistsfocus on styling a roomor interiorfor a photoshoot andprimarily work on editorial or commercial projects. They are expertsatcapturingthe perfect shot of an interior that celebrates its best features, textures and talking points.
Stylistsmustcarefully considerevery aspect of the shot, from the angles of the furniture to the‘flow’of the space. "It’s not just about turning up to a shoot and making it look pretty," Emma advises, "you have to get the brief, draw the ideas out, develop mood boards,get the props, think about the logistics andget everythingapproved – there's a whole system."
The process involves thinking about the layers, textures, colours and angles that can be seen to create a particularatmosphereor mood.Interior stylists will generally be interested incapturing a range of different shots, some large and others small and focused. Thishelpsto draw the viewer in and create an engaging featurethat sparks interest.
The abilityto draw out the best features of a space is very much a learned skill that requires practice. Emma tells us thatbudding styliststend to assist for a few yearsto improve their skillsbefore taking on any styling jobsof their own.
What are some of the main differences between the tworoles?
While interiordesignersmay have a longer timeframe to finalise plans, consult with clientsand source items,interior styliststypicallyhavetowork within tight deadlines according to different publication schedulesand the availability of specific locations or properties.Workingtotightdeadlinesat short noticeisall part of the job -Emma recalls having shoots bookedwith just a week’s notice.
Stylists arealsooften required totransformthe space back to itsoriginal state after a shoot. "We’ll take every single piece of furnitureandevery single accessorytomake it look beautiful, and [after shooting] we’ll take it all away again and paint it all back to white," Emma explains.
Another difference between the two areas is that interior stylists often need to think about product or brand placement in a way that interiordesigners may not.Emma refers to the concept of a ‘hero’ piece or product in a shot, noting that when shooting for a magazine, for example, stylists "need to make sure there is a real inspirational element" which could be a piece of furniture or specific accessory thatis positioned in the perfect place to maximise its desirability.
If you’re interested in interior design and want toimprove your skills orfind out more, you may find someofourinteriordesignshort courses helpful.
