The profession of interior design has been a consequence of the development of society and the complex architecture that has resulted from the development of industrial processes. The pursuit of effective use of space, user well-being and functional design has contributed to the development of the contemporary interior design profession.

In the past architects would instinctively and automatically function as interior decorators. Allternatively it was the women who took on the responsibility of decorating their homes, taking the help of furniture-makers, upholsterers and artisans. Interior decoration, as a profession evolved gradually and for a long time was considered the domain of women.

As people (mostly women) began offering interior decoration as a service the professionalization of this service gained momentum. This movement was reinforced by the publication of books on the subject.

However, several upholsterers and curtain-makers also started calling themselves interior decorators. That is when the professional practitioners of interior decoration started calling themselves interior designers!

Interior designers have a knowledge of space planning and can make functional and effective use of space, as compared to interior decorators. An interior designer can undertake projects that include arranging the basic layout of spaces within a building as well as projects that require an understanding of technical issues such as acoustics, lighting, temperature, etc. However, this means that an interior designer is qualified to alter the interior environment of any space; without making any structural modifications. They may not alter load-bearing walls without having their designs stamped for approval by an architect. The architect must give this approval after checking whether the proposed changes could compromise the safety of the structure. Interior Designers often work directly with architectural firms.