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how would someone at my age become involved into house design and remodeling if they do not have many real chances to help remodel/design a layout of a house?
I live out in a small, rural community in Ohio, and other than helping my parents out redesigning a room, I do not have many chances to do other things surrounding that field.
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6 answers
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Dan’s Answer
Small communities offer some special ways to get to your ultimate goal. Look in your local phone book ( if they still offer one ) for contractors. Start talking to area contractors and tell them your looking for an apprenticeship. Many would love to have you, also word of mouth is huge in small areas. Ask if they know anyone willing to take you on. They very well may. Leave your name and phone number always!!!Check your local paper for a "Services Offered " section, they can be a huge help. Also small towns generally have local bulletin board that people put all sorts of things on including help wanted. Also ask around for references to contractors that did a job for them, and how happy with the work they were . You can always Google Contractors in your area as well, and print off a phone number list. Lots of foot work, and calling will pay off! Good Luck!
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Michelle Alicia’s Answer
I would start by seeking out design companies whose work you admire, and then writing to them sharing your unique story and interests and inquire about internship opportunities. Many architecture and interior design firms offer unpaid/paid internships, depending on your skill level, but this is a great way to get some exposure in the field that you are interested in.
Creatives are usually unique individuals with a unique outlook on life which influences their art. Each one is special. I believe that if you feel drawn to this area, you should inquire of people you want to learn from. Not every door will open for you, but the one that is meant for you will.
Creatives are usually unique individuals with a unique outlook on life which influences their art. Each one is special. I believe that if you feel drawn to this area, you should inquire of people you want to learn from. Not every door will open for you, but the one that is meant for you will.
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Jeff’s Answer
All the responses provided earlier are top-notch. I'd like to build on Eva's suggestion: begin experimenting with design software. Numerous software companies provide free trials or complimentary versions for students. In the long run, you'll require a CAD-based software, but for now, start by exploring the free options! SKETCHUP is a fantastic choice, widely used by many industry professionals.
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Tiarra’s Answer
There are some online websites and apps you can try. ApplyDesign is a website that allows you to stage images or rooms. The first image is free and you can sign up for as little as $7 or $10. Lumion.com is another website and if is free for students, if you are not a student there is a 14-day free trial. If you cannot afford an account for any website, try the free trial and save your designs even if you have to screenshot them through Microsoft Word or PowerPoint and save them. Create a folder in your files that is dedicated just for your designs. CubiCasa will let you create free 2D floor plans. Planner 5D is another free website you can use to create and it is free. On this site you can do free interior design and floor plans. Houzz is an app where you can get interior design ideas and look into other apps. Be practicing and save your work, create a LinkedIn and begin networking. Also, Facebook groups or other social media groups are a great way to network, maybe you can collaborate with other people also getting in the industry and even collaborate with those already in the industry. Also, check out free book websites like the Internet Archive and Open Library to find free books about interior design and home remodeling.
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eva’s Answer
If you are wanting to become an interior designer, then you need to learn design, I can teach you that online a little at a time but you have to do the homework. And then you need to learn Autocad so you can express your vision in 3D. These two skills will enable you greatly in remodeling and designing any space.
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Hagen’s Answer
You need to prepare yourself for a decade of training and experience so the sooner you start the better. See if you can get a job or even volunteer to work with a construction company that does remodeling.
I got started doing electrical work via a manpower job -which means I didn’t know anything and the electrician just needed some extra hands. He liked my attention to detail and work ethic and trained me to be an electrician. I probably was 19.
If you can demonstrate you’re willing to work and able to learn someone will give you a opportunity. That’s how it works.
BTW, I ended up graduating from UC Berkeley in Philosophy but I still struggled to understand how even basic switching worked 😒. Be patient with yourself.
There are a million home repair and remodeling videos on YouTube - learn all you can.
Volunteer to fix things for neighbors- get your hands dirty -it’s how you learn
I got started doing electrical work via a manpower job -which means I didn’t know anything and the electrician just needed some extra hands. He liked my attention to detail and work ethic and trained me to be an electrician. I probably was 19.
If you can demonstrate you’re willing to work and able to learn someone will give you a opportunity. That’s how it works.
BTW, I ended up graduating from UC Berkeley in Philosophy but I still struggled to understand how even basic switching worked 😒. Be patient with yourself.
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