FAQs
What is the difference between an Interior Decorator and an Interior Designer?
Educational study and professional practice differentiate the interior decorator from the interior designer. In order to become an Interior Designer, you must attend a college-level interior design program and receive at least an associate's degree in interior design from an accredited college. Due to licensing standards and current government regulations, the world of interior design and its designers are at a bit of a stand still. It is wise to research any program and/or college to assure you are getting the education you require. The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) certifies all professional Interior Designers and/or programs at the college level. Once you have completed your degree, you would be able to perform the duties of an Interior Designer whose role not only includes cosmetic changes, but architectural changes as well.
An Interior Decorator may or may not be schooled in interior design. For this reason, it is important for the consumer to understand what type of training (if any) an Interior Decorator has received. Completing a certificate or "certified" program in interior decorating will differentiate you from the novice decorator.
What types of services can an Interior Decorator offer?
Your duties as an Interior Decorator would include advice (consulting) in selecting cosmetic changes and/or finishes for residential, commercial, hospitality and other related businesses. Duties would include, but are not limited to, furniture selection and arrangement, window and wall coverings, color and pattern selection, surface lighting and fixtures, upholstery and fabrics, and art and accessory selection and placement.
What makes the Certified Decorating Professional ® (CDP) program(s) different from other programs available?
The CDP program(s) provides many hands-on projects for the student to complete which are thoroughly reviewed and critiqued by the instructor--both in the studio and out. You will receive the same attention to detail that our studio attendees receive. The goal is to teach, guide and support you every step of the way regardless of how long it takes!
We go above and beyond other home study programs by offering unlimited access to the instructor. You will not receive taped or recorded instruction. You will receive written and live telephone instruction, review and project critiques that will allow you to interact on a more personal level. You will also receive access to this website which is filled with additional information and photographs that work side by side with your other study materials. This virtual classroom allows you to review information both with your instructor and on your own time.
Is a Certified Decorating Professional ® (CDP) recognized by design industries?
A Certified Decorating Professional ® (CDP) is recognized by several industry organizations including ADE (Association of Design Education), IDS (Interior Design Society), and RESA (Real Estate Staging Association). In addition to these organizations, the Certified Decorating Professional ® (CDP) program(s) are authorized through The Academy of Design and Decorating (A division of Beautiful Living, LLC).
What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Decorating Professional ® (CDP)?
- Use of Certified Decorating Professional ® (CDP) appellation after your name
- Use of the term: Certified Decorating Professional ® (CDP)
- Free Associate Membership to ADE which gives you access to monthly webinars, free mentoring, and business listing
- Work full or part-time from your home office / Low overhead and start-up costs / No fees. Ever.
- Continuing education opportunities
- Recognition as a professional
Certified Decorating Professional ® is a registered trademark filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.