To contribute to the discussion of concepts describing the processes of creating interiors in relevant scientific literature with more clarity, and to try to explain the distinction between them in the Croatian language, we illustrated the difference between designing and decorating interiors with examples. When selecting authors, we were guided by geographical and temporal criteria (USA, first half of the 20th century), recognising as relevant authors those whose work in interior design is globally recognised and significant for the history of interiors. As an example of integrating building architecture and interior design, we chose the Robie House in Chicago by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and for an example of interior decoration, the Colony Club, the first exclusively women's club in New York, by author Elsie de Wolfe. In this text, we have tried, following a survey of scientific and professional sources, to clarify some basic terminological questions and provide arguments for the proposed distinctions. Therefore, we do not recommend the term "interior architecture", because even in global practice, it is avoided as an imprecise substitute for the term "interior design". If we define the term "interior design" broadly enough, there is no "gap" in the creative process between interior architecture and interior design. Interior decoration can be part of the interior design process, but it can also be an independent practice, with a clear distinction in the methodology of work: the interior designer designs, and the decorator decorates. A lack of discussion on the subject in Croatia suggests the need to promote research and explore interiors actively. This is essential to reach the ultimate goal: an attempt to establish methods and criteria for a well-founded valorisation of interior creation within Croatian contexts. This effort aims to contribute to understanding the history of Croatian interiors, recognising their specificities, and creating guidelines for future creation.
