Professionals such as property stylists, interior decorators, and interior designers all play crucial roles when it comes to enhancing aesthetics and functionality of spaces in and outside the home.

While their work may overlap to some extent, each role has distinct responsibilities and expertise. This may help you understand who to hire for your specific needs.

Property Stylist

A property stylist works with sellers and real estate agents to stage properties effectively, focussing on optimising the visual appeal of a property listed to attract potential buyers. The goal is to create an inviting atmosphere that resonates with the target market, leading to a higher sale price.

Responsibilities:

• Staging – arrange furniture, decor, and accessories strategically to showcase best features.
• Decluttering – create a clean and spacious look, which can be more appealing to potential buyers.
• Colour coordination – choose colour schemes that are neutral and universally appealing to create a sense of harmony and broad appeal.
• Accessory selection – select and place accessories, from artwork to cushions and rugs, that complement the overall design theme.

Interior Decorator

Interior decorators work closely with homeowner clients to understand their preferences, style, and functional needs to create visually pleasing interiors, and are skilled in balancing design elements such as colour, texture, and furniture to transform spaces into inviting and harmonious environments.

Responsibilities:

• Design concept development – conceptualise design themes based on client preferences and requirements.
• Furniture and decor selection – choose furniture, lighting, textiles, and accessories that align with the desired design aesthetic.
• Space planning – optimise the layout of furniture and fixtures to ensure efficient use of space while maintaining a cohesive design.
• Colour consultation – provide guidance on colour palettes that suit the space and evoke the desired ambiance.

Interior Designer

Interior designers are trained professionals with expertise in both aesthetics and functional design aspects. They go beyond decorating and styling to address structural considerations, building codes, and spatial planning, and work on a wide range of projects, from residential homes to commercial spaces.

Responsibilities:

• Space planning – create detailed layouts that optimise traffic flow, functionality, and spatial organisation.
• Material and finishes selection – choose materials, finishes, and architectural elements that align with the design concept and meet client requirements.
• Project management – oversee projects from concept to completion, coordinating with architects, contractors, and other professionals.
• Code compliance – ensure that designs comply with building codes, accessibility standards, and safety regulations.

Three key differences are noted: aspects of focus, depth of work and training and expertise.

FOCUS: Property stylists emphasise staging for sale or rental purposes, while interior decorators focus on enhancing aesthetics, and interior designers integrate functionality with aesthetics.

DEPTH OF WORK: Property stylists primarily work on surface-level changes, decorators delve deeper into design elements, and interior designers handle structural and spatial aspects.

TRAINING AND EXPERTISE: Interior designers typically have formal education and training in design principles, building codes, and project management, while decorators and stylists may have varying levels of formal education and experience.

Choosing the right professional depends on your specific need: the property stylist for enhancing visual appeal and staging properties; the interior decorator for aesthetic improvements and decor expertise; the interior designer for comprehensive design projects involving structural changes and spatial planning.

Each role contributes uniquely to creating captivating and functional spaces, ensuring that every aspect of design and presentation aligns with your vision and goals as homeowner.