What's the difference between a colour consultant and an interior designer?
What sets us apart and how to decide which one is right for you
Late last year, I started working with a business coach, and one thing that came up in our sessions was that it’s often so easy to presume that other people know what you do or what your business entails. You might feel like one Instagram post or reel has reached the world; therefore, everyone surely knows what you do? But that’s just not the case.
The thought of ‘selling’ myself and constantly posting or talking about what I offer doesn’t come naturally. In fact, it makes me cringe slightly and I’ve got my eyes closed hitting the publish button as we speak. But this topic felt like a handy one to talk about and a question that even my business coach asked: ‘No, but seriously, what is the difference between a colour consultant and an interior designer?’. So I thought it was time I got over myself and talk more confidently about…well, me!
For those of you who are new here…I am a colour consultant for interiors. I run my own colour and design studio as well as work for Bauwerk as their in-house colour expert. But (I hear you say) what does a colour consultant do? And what is the difference between an interior colour consultant and an interior designer?
A colour consultant…
…specialises exclusively in the use of colour within a space. We advise on colour schemes for walls, ceilings, woodwork and depending on the service, this can extend to furnishings too. Paint and wallpaper are our main focus, but I also consult on fabrics, tiles, materials and artwork, as I believe these are really important to the overall colour scheme. A colour consultant will consider factors such as lighting, mood, behaviour and the psychological impact of colours. We look at types of paint finish as well as colour placement, working closely with clients to curate a colour scheme for the project (this might be one room or it could be an entire home).
As specialists, we not only work with homeowners but also with interior designers, architects and decorators to refine projects. I often think of colour consultations as the perfect choice for homeowners who love a bit of DIY or have their own interior ideas, but just need that little bit of help or support with some of the bigger decisions like the paint colour. Colour consultations are cheaper too and often a speedier option than an interior design service.
While colour consultants focus solely on colour, an interior designer…
…designs and plans entire interior spaces, covering every aspect of a space’s interior from the overall layout and furniture placement to materials, lighting, and decor. Interior designers might even address structural changes like removing walls or designing bespoke furniture and joinery pieces. An interior designer is perfect for those who want a complete overhaul of their interior and are looking for help with the whole design process.
Interior designers work on a multitude of projects, from one-room makeovers to large renovations, sourcing, and overseeing the installation of design elements.
“Colour consultants focus on creating the perfect palette that evokes emotion and harmony within a space, while interior designers take that foundation and weave it into a cohesive story, blending colour with furniture, lighting, and layout to transform a room into a functional work of art.” Emma Merry, Interior Designer
Just like interior designers, every colour consultant has their own method and way of working and there are lots of overlaps between the two roles. So I suppose if you’re looking for help with your home, the first question is…what do you need help with and how much do you want to do it alone?