Interior design involves the planning and design of man-made spaces, which is a crucial aspect of environmental design and closely linked to architecture. Despite the long-standing desire to create aesthetically pleasing surroundings throughout history, the field of interior design is relatively modern. The term "interior decorator" has been used so loosely since the mid-20th century that it has lost much of its meaning, leading to the adoption of more descriptive terms. "Interior design" encompasses a wider scope of activities and conveys a sense of professionalism. In certain European countries where the profession is well-established, it is referred to as "interior architecture." Those who focus on the various elements that influence man-made environments now commonly refer to the entire field as environmental design.
