4 answers
Danina
Student
1
Question
Updated
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Can I get an interior designer to answer these 10 questions for me?
1. Can you tell me about the types of tasks you are responsible for on a day-to-day basis?
2. What do you enjoy most about your career?
3. What is most challenging about your career?
4. What are some skills and personality traits necessary to perform your job?
5. What are some misconceptions about your career?
6. What inspired you to join this career field?
7. For you what is the work environment like?
8. What would you recommend to someone who wants to join this career field?
9. Do you get along with your coworkers?
10. What is your work schedule like?
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4 answers
Carolyn de Vera
Architectural Interior Designer
1
Answer
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Carolyn’s Answer
1. Can you tell me about the types of tasks you are responsible for on a day-to-day basis? Well, it varies, so therefore, everyday is joy & an adventure into your world of creativity. Professionally, a client would have either bought their home or space, immediately request for the floor plan. If a floor plan is not available it's OK because you'll have to go to the site anyways to make actual measurements and draw what is called an "As-Built Plan". Upon investigating the space for existing electrical, plumbing or even airconditioning and other features available or even defects to be reported. And then sit down with your client and discuss what they want. And then you tell them you'll meet up next week for your presentation. There are numerous ways you get a project like thru an architect you have to collaborate with. And numerous ways to go about any project. So everyday is a process and new challenges. It's like playing a game of problem solving everyday that gets you up in the morning.
2. What do you enjoy most about your career? I get to play around with beautiful things. Putting it all together and have the satisfaction of accomplishing something you made from your ideas and call it your very own creation.
3. What is most challenging about your career? Reading people. Both clients and other tradesmen involved. But because of my years of practicing my craft, my intuition has grown, so it becomes easier what they want so you'll know what to do next. Designing is a psychologist game. To guess what makes them tick!
4. What are some skills and personality traits necessary to perform your job? A Great Listener. Listen not to reply...listen to understand. Only you can envision what they are saying and it's your job to put it on paper. Likewise, how to put your imagination in your brain unto to paper too. Your drawings should be understood by any engineer, architects, especially construction workers and tradesmen to make sure they build it exactly as you envisioned. Knowledge of how a material will look all together and what should be the quality will determine the outcome and it's the designers job to see to it that he or she anticipates the results by envisioning it in their minds before it becomes reality.
5. What are some misconceptions about your career? That we are decorators. A little color here...a little flower there... It's actually a science and a bit of magic. They thought it's easy even a housewife can do it. Yes there are DIYs as long as it's an easy hack or easy assembly with a picture of how it will look. That's decorating. Designing is a Math and a Science in Theories. To show the Hows & Whys to make sense and immediate identification to make people say "Oh, so that's why."
6. What inspired you to join this career field? As a little girl, my favorite toy is a Fisher Price House. You can open it and rearrange the furniture as often as you want. I even turned the house upside down and made another look of the house from a bungalow to a skyscraper. My mom had poor choices for throw-pillows or blankets, rugs, carpets, etc. Everything does not coordinate or is at least harmonized. So the next time she took me shopping instead and ask me if what she chose mix & matches. I developed a keen eye on taste and started crafting simple decors. Was so happy when I made my first sale as a kid. Aside from that strong foundation, my hobbies were, and still is, drawing, coloring with crayons and watercolor. I knew what college I wanted to get into because of my childhood.
7. For you what is the work environment like? An Artist at work need their own space so they can concentrate and get their creative juices flowing without interruption. But when you are just starting out it's good to collaborate with peers and get mentorship from your boss. They'll definitely appreciate that is a win-win, you get to level up more and we get to be honored.
8. What would you recommend to someone who wants to join this career field? Design your LIFE. How do you envision yourself to be in this career? But do try everything. From selling Furniture, to Events & Flower Arranging; understand the real estate industry; visit the job site every now and then and ask what's the progress from the site engineer or how is this built or how does this go? From there you would already understand engineering & architecture if you often come to the site and see how something is installed. Be a salesman for different interior finishes materials. Each job you partake will make you laser sharp in knowledge of construction details and chemical reactions to different elements. Memorized standard dimensions becomes second nature to you. Practice seeing proportions in a blink of an eye. And overall if you can be a fortune teller that would be a big plus. See, I told you it's both a science and magic. Oh I almost forgot. Art & Music plays a big part. You'll need to get your inspirations from these. Even sales pitches from movies that takes your clients into a fantasy journey with you and finally say "Yes" (to the dress? hehe) joking aside, see how it'll stick in their heads even in their dreams.
9. Do you get along with your coworkers? Yes, most definitely. If you be authentically just be your awesome self.
10. What is your work schedule like? Work-Life balance is key. I can stay up all night once I get into the zone. Designing can be a passion. A way of life. Though sticking to 8 hours work from Mondays till Fridays is fine. Or even less if you are done.
To continue question #1 because it is very vague. The next step after getting all the data from the client is to prepare for your presentation. It starts with the plan. Space planning: furniture layout & traffic flow; zoning activities; making sure airconditioning and natural light & ventilation is maximized; provide necessary facilities and utilities, etc. While you're at it, envision everything what you can see when you are walking in the area and while you are enjoying the space. Now color scheme. Make a mood board with images showcasing the feeling of the space. Computer 3D perspectives can be used but don't spend hours making it because you aren't paid yet to do so. That's why sketches are economical and forgiving. It gives allowance for the clients to envision their space on their own instead of a computer generated one that locks their imagination to it and risk of rejection. Now that you're set for your presentation then don't forget to submit your contract proposal.
Other days, especially when there is an on-going project, I visit the site and check if my designs are coming to life.
In some other project, where we are in the middle of things, more drawings are drawn and from those detailed drawings it is quantified called the BOQ or Bill Of Quantities. This BOQ is given to suppliers / tradesmen to give a price quotation.
There are other meetings when another round of design proposals are to be presented. This is why sometimes a project takes time if a client can't make up their minds. So make sure you state how many options can you only produce. More options, more bills.
When a project is almost finished building, The fun part is shopping for all those furniture and soft finishes like curtains, bed covers, towels, right down to toilet paper. It's the best reward for any designer to see their ideas become reality.
2. What do you enjoy most about your career? I get to play around with beautiful things. Putting it all together and have the satisfaction of accomplishing something you made from your ideas and call it your very own creation.
3. What is most challenging about your career? Reading people. Both clients and other tradesmen involved. But because of my years of practicing my craft, my intuition has grown, so it becomes easier what they want so you'll know what to do next. Designing is a psychologist game. To guess what makes them tick!
4. What are some skills and personality traits necessary to perform your job? A Great Listener. Listen not to reply...listen to understand. Only you can envision what they are saying and it's your job to put it on paper. Likewise, how to put your imagination in your brain unto to paper too. Your drawings should be understood by any engineer, architects, especially construction workers and tradesmen to make sure they build it exactly as you envisioned. Knowledge of how a material will look all together and what should be the quality will determine the outcome and it's the designers job to see to it that he or she anticipates the results by envisioning it in their minds before it becomes reality.
5. What are some misconceptions about your career? That we are decorators. A little color here...a little flower there... It's actually a science and a bit of magic. They thought it's easy even a housewife can do it. Yes there are DIYs as long as it's an easy hack or easy assembly with a picture of how it will look. That's decorating. Designing is a Math and a Science in Theories. To show the Hows & Whys to make sense and immediate identification to make people say "Oh, so that's why."
6. What inspired you to join this career field? As a little girl, my favorite toy is a Fisher Price House. You can open it and rearrange the furniture as often as you want. I even turned the house upside down and made another look of the house from a bungalow to a skyscraper. My mom had poor choices for throw-pillows or blankets, rugs, carpets, etc. Everything does not coordinate or is at least harmonized. So the next time she took me shopping instead and ask me if what she chose mix & matches. I developed a keen eye on taste and started crafting simple decors. Was so happy when I made my first sale as a kid. Aside from that strong foundation, my hobbies were, and still is, drawing, coloring with crayons and watercolor. I knew what college I wanted to get into because of my childhood.
7. For you what is the work environment like? An Artist at work need their own space so they can concentrate and get their creative juices flowing without interruption. But when you are just starting out it's good to collaborate with peers and get mentorship from your boss. They'll definitely appreciate that is a win-win, you get to level up more and we get to be honored.
8. What would you recommend to someone who wants to join this career field? Design your LIFE. How do you envision yourself to be in this career? But do try everything. From selling Furniture, to Events & Flower Arranging; understand the real estate industry; visit the job site every now and then and ask what's the progress from the site engineer or how is this built or how does this go? From there you would already understand engineering & architecture if you often come to the site and see how something is installed. Be a salesman for different interior finishes materials. Each job you partake will make you laser sharp in knowledge of construction details and chemical reactions to different elements. Memorized standard dimensions becomes second nature to you. Practice seeing proportions in a blink of an eye. And overall if you can be a fortune teller that would be a big plus. See, I told you it's both a science and magic. Oh I almost forgot. Art & Music plays a big part. You'll need to get your inspirations from these. Even sales pitches from movies that takes your clients into a fantasy journey with you and finally say "Yes" (to the dress? hehe) joking aside, see how it'll stick in their heads even in their dreams.
9. Do you get along with your coworkers? Yes, most definitely. If you be authentically just be your awesome self.
10. What is your work schedule like? Work-Life balance is key. I can stay up all night once I get into the zone. Designing can be a passion. A way of life. Though sticking to 8 hours work from Mondays till Fridays is fine. Or even less if you are done.
Carolyn recommends the following next steps:
Barb Perry
Interior design
2
Answers
Lakeville, Minnesota
Updated
Barb’s Answer
1) I work for a commercial furniture dealership and much of my week is in the office at my computer. I recommend furniture solutions to clients who contact me mostly by email. Once a solution is approved by client, a proposal is provided. This is matched to their purchase order and furniture is ordered. I prepare installation plans and do site measurements before furniture is installed. Punch list items are also managed by the designer.
2) I enjoy getting to know clients and providing a solution they are happy with.
3) Managing many projects at once can be challenging and lead to long work days to get the work done.
4) AutoCad and Revit drafting software used in the industry. It's helpful to be organized and have great attention to detail. Curiosity helps to get to know client needs.
5) I think many think of residential design, but aren't aware of the many facets of commercial interior design...drafting, facilities management, space planning, project management, etc.
6) After working in an office for many years, I wanted to help make work environments happier, healthier, more effective.
7) I work with a great team of 8 designers. We sit in benching stations and collaborate on large projects. Our resource library includes finish samples and furniture vendor references.
8) Take a drafting course, check out iida.org for commercial interior articles, job shadow a couple people in varying roles in the industry.
9) I'm fortunate to work with a wonderful group of designers.
10) I work 45 hours per week, Monday - Friday days.
Schedule a job shadow
Read IIDA articles
Take a drafting course.
2) I enjoy getting to know clients and providing a solution they are happy with.
3) Managing many projects at once can be challenging and lead to long work days to get the work done.
4) AutoCad and Revit drafting software used in the industry. It's helpful to be organized and have great attention to detail. Curiosity helps to get to know client needs.
5) I think many think of residential design, but aren't aware of the many facets of commercial interior design...drafting, facilities management, space planning, project management, etc.
6) After working in an office for many years, I wanted to help make work environments happier, healthier, more effective.
7) I work with a great team of 8 designers. We sit in benching stations and collaborate on large projects. Our resource library includes finish samples and furniture vendor references.
8) Take a drafting course, check out iida.org for commercial interior articles, job shadow a couple people in varying roles in the industry.
9) I'm fortunate to work with a wonderful group of designers.
10) I work 45 hours per week, Monday - Friday days.
Barb recommends the following next steps:
Pam Ode-Woznick
interior designer/photographer
2
Answers
Novi, Michigan
Updated
Pam’s Answer
My gosh, what fabulous questions! I can tell you have put a lot of time and effort into career planning, very astute of you. Here goes - answers to your questions:
1. The types of tasks you are responsible for are directly related to the type of interiors you are doing:
a) residential - you will be asked to measure the area to be enhanced, drawer or CAD perform illustrations in plan view, elevation and
perspective. Once agreed upon, layout of major furnishings to be used, flooring, finishes, fabrics, paint and lighting will be selected. The final
presentation will include a perspective with each of these items represented. Once finalized a itemized statement is prepared and financing
is discussed. A component of this will have all labor costs necessary and an additional statement is included.
b) contract/commercial - you most probably will need technical training with various software programs including CAD, Revit, Sketchup,
20/20 and PhotoShop. You will need strong spatial skills, which you or someone else will need to have field measurements done. All
structural I-beams and foundations should be included. Information on interacting departs and separate needs will need to be garnered, the
layouts may begin and brought to the attention of group leaders for approval. As in residential, furnishings, flooring, finishes, fabrics, paint
and lighting will be brought in. Any unique or individualized graphics should be added at this point.
2. I enjoy the creative aspect of design. Putting all components together in a functional and aesthetic manner is exciting. The end results and
your pleased clients makes it all fulfilling.
3. The most challenging and also rewarding aspect of the job is in problem solving. This can be a shortage of space, lack of funds or products not
delivered on time.
4. You should come with proficient computer skills for the job requirements. No one expects you to know everything, but you should have basic
skills. You should every position will come with it's own demands and the easier it is for you to comprehend this, the faster you can accomplish
actual design. In order to do these things you must be tenacious, giving "or handing it to someone else is not advisable for any career
growth. Learning when and how to delegate is another hurdle, as many creatives are hands on perfectionists.
5. For whatever reason, designers aren't taught persuasive speaking. Weather you're presenting your concepts to the CEO or products to a
family, you are selling at some point. You can't show them a picture, say "here it is" and have them accept plan.
6. I personally chose interior design because I love art - of all kinds; music, painting, landscaping, photography, fashion . . .. I chose interiors in
particular because I also love working with people and making them happy with their environment. I believed I could earn a living doing
interiors while pursuing other arts on the side.
7. The work environment depends largely on what you make of it. If you go into work grumpy and offish, expect your day is going to less than
sunny. If you work well with your partners, you can have an enjoyable imaginative day. Collaborative experiences can lead to the most
creative and successful team efforts.
8. My advice to anyone, for any career endeavor, is to research it by talking with others you admire in that field. Go to the business' that do your
preferred path and talk with them about what programs you need and ask what skills to come with.
9. I always find fiends where I go. There will, of course, be someone you feel uncomfortable with. Don't mind that person, that's their problem.
10. The schedule you keep will large have to do with the type of business you chose. Some places are feast and famine, that is all dependent on their accounts. Sometimes they are flooded with business, the next they are in search. Larger companies usually are more even keel and run fairly consistent work flow - until a major client leaves them! If you run your own business, it is what you put into it and you can expect ups and downs. The number of hours put in anywhere will depend on your expertise and expedience. Customer service!
KNOW THAT WITH EFFORT YOU CAN DO IT - BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!
1. The types of tasks you are responsible for are directly related to the type of interiors you are doing:
a) residential - you will be asked to measure the area to be enhanced, drawer or CAD perform illustrations in plan view, elevation and
perspective. Once agreed upon, layout of major furnishings to be used, flooring, finishes, fabrics, paint and lighting will be selected. The final
presentation will include a perspective with each of these items represented. Once finalized a itemized statement is prepared and financing
is discussed. A component of this will have all labor costs necessary and an additional statement is included.
b) contract/commercial - you most probably will need technical training with various software programs including CAD, Revit, Sketchup,
20/20 and PhotoShop. You will need strong spatial skills, which you or someone else will need to have field measurements done. All
structural I-beams and foundations should be included. Information on interacting departs and separate needs will need to be garnered, the
layouts may begin and brought to the attention of group leaders for approval. As in residential, furnishings, flooring, finishes, fabrics, paint
and lighting will be brought in. Any unique or individualized graphics should be added at this point.
2. I enjoy the creative aspect of design. Putting all components together in a functional and aesthetic manner is exciting. The end results and
your pleased clients makes it all fulfilling.
3. The most challenging and also rewarding aspect of the job is in problem solving. This can be a shortage of space, lack of funds or products not
delivered on time.
4. You should come with proficient computer skills for the job requirements. No one expects you to know everything, but you should have basic
skills. You should every position will come with it's own demands and the easier it is for you to comprehend this, the faster you can accomplish
actual design. In order to do these things you must be tenacious, giving "or handing it to someone else is not advisable for any career
growth. Learning when and how to delegate is another hurdle, as many creatives are hands on perfectionists.
5. For whatever reason, designers aren't taught persuasive speaking. Weather you're presenting your concepts to the CEO or products to a
family, you are selling at some point. You can't show them a picture, say "here it is" and have them accept plan.
6. I personally chose interior design because I love art - of all kinds; music, painting, landscaping, photography, fashion . . .. I chose interiors in
particular because I also love working with people and making them happy with their environment. I believed I could earn a living doing
interiors while pursuing other arts on the side.
7. The work environment depends largely on what you make of it. If you go into work grumpy and offish, expect your day is going to less than
sunny. If you work well with your partners, you can have an enjoyable imaginative day. Collaborative experiences can lead to the most
creative and successful team efforts.
8. My advice to anyone, for any career endeavor, is to research it by talking with others you admire in that field. Go to the business' that do your
preferred path and talk with them about what programs you need and ask what skills to come with.
9. I always find fiends where I go. There will, of course, be someone you feel uncomfortable with. Don't mind that person, that's their problem.
10. The schedule you keep will large have to do with the type of business you chose. Some places are feast and famine, that is all dependent on their accounts. Sometimes they are flooded with business, the next they are in search. Larger companies usually are more even keel and run fairly consistent work flow - until a major client leaves them! If you run your own business, it is what you put into it and you can expect ups and downs. The number of hours put in anywhere will depend on your expertise and expedience. Customer service!
KNOW THAT WITH EFFORT YOU CAN DO IT - BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!
Linda Mire
Interior Design
85
Answers
Lake Charles
Updated
Linda’s Answer
Sure#1 Daily Task: I am a list maker, very useful habit, I check my list for any urgent issues such as getting materials to a job site where they are need for a job scheduled for work that day with no delays. Make return calls, schedule appointments, and consult contractor make sure all working projects are moving smoothly. This is a hard question because my days varies depending on projects complexity and size and deadline.
#2 I enjoy the creative outlet it offers and the friendships I have formed with clients, contractors and vendors.
#3 I have been doing this a long time almost 40 years, so I have mastered most situations that may have been problematic once alone time ago and searched my brain for an answer and the one that wants to be heard is indecisive clients are much more time demanding and hand holding.
#4 Best skill to invoke is listening, use your ears. A client will tell you what they want, what they can spend and how their environment effects their lifestyle. Pay attention and you will successfully create a space of their preferences using your talent and skill that will surpass their wildest dreams. Upbeat and positive addatude, be honest and work harder than anyone you know it will pay off.
#5 Misconceptions That a Designers are expensive and average people can't afford our services, truth we are able to advise a smart and productive plan for the client so their money is spent wisely and avoid costly and unnecessary expenses or mistakes.
#6 Inspiration, I was born a designer/artist always knew this is my calling I am blessed with a beautiful gift of inexcusable creativity. I love my job.
#7 Work environment I opened my first business at 22 so I have been a leader in most of the design projects I have completed. That being said I am responsible for the mood of my business,so I have a few requirements. You must always take responsibility for your mistakes so we can fix it right away learn the lesson move on. There are so many moving parts in Interior Design and it's impossible to be a pro at everything. Don't be foolish and not ask questions if you don't know, after all my years I am happy to learn new skills and how all things fit together to create cohesive and harmonious spaces, which still captivates all of my attention. I believe the ultimate goal is a happy life spent, so I make an effort with every moment time offers to embrace joy, have fun, laugh hard with happy tears. Very easy to be professional and have fun enjoying what you do and the people you share it with daily.
#8 My Recommendation , Well I love Design so I would tell you to get an education it will polish your skills and give you confidence. Become a sponge and look at the world around you, really look and see how all things fit together, there is design in everything. Find places where they can fit together better and fix it , it's good practice and you will discover your artistic voice.
#9 Getting along with co-workers No not always. Creative people are emotionally driven, we feel our art, it's not mechanical so feeling get bruised if you are not careful when collaborating. Understand artistic sensitivity and be kind always but be true to your design.
Wow! I made it 10 Oh boy my schedule 🤪🤔🫨🥴🥳💃😏🫣🥲😄! Busy and never the same. I will have spent the evening preparing paperwork and drawings of window treatments and custom bedding, upholstery to drop off at the workroom where I will consult with the seamstress and detail the specs with her. Make sure the proper work order is attached to the correct fabric including any fringe,buttons,zippers, any details added. Get an estimated time line so I can update the client. Some days consist of a long shopping list of beautiful and or useful objects, furnishings and accessories the client and I will together shop for interrupted only by a nice lunch if time permits. Other days I spend checking job sites to insure everything is moving smoothly and are going according to design specs. I always carry a pair of old tennis shoes so if there is any help I can offer will grab a hammer, paint brush, shovel, screwdriver whatever is needed. I have become quite handy. There are days spent at my desk with paperwork tracking orders, are putting a presentation together for a new client. There is so much more in small and large details. Interior Design is full of moving parts and requires focus and you have to keep you head in the game alot of people and your clients are relying on you. Interior Design is a lot of work and not for the faint of heart but it is incredibly rewarding when your clients are in happy tears from the results and you look around and think how do I know how to do this, achieving with your hard work beautiful results time and time again. A happy life spent!
#2 I enjoy the creative outlet it offers and the friendships I have formed with clients, contractors and vendors.
#3 I have been doing this a long time almost 40 years, so I have mastered most situations that may have been problematic once alone time ago and searched my brain for an answer and the one that wants to be heard is indecisive clients are much more time demanding and hand holding.
#4 Best skill to invoke is listening, use your ears. A client will tell you what they want, what they can spend and how their environment effects their lifestyle. Pay attention and you will successfully create a space of their preferences using your talent and skill that will surpass their wildest dreams. Upbeat and positive addatude, be honest and work harder than anyone you know it will pay off.
#5 Misconceptions That a Designers are expensive and average people can't afford our services, truth we are able to advise a smart and productive plan for the client so their money is spent wisely and avoid costly and unnecessary expenses or mistakes.
#6 Inspiration, I was born a designer/artist always knew this is my calling I am blessed with a beautiful gift of inexcusable creativity. I love my job.
#7 Work environment I opened my first business at 22 so I have been a leader in most of the design projects I have completed. That being said I am responsible for the mood of my business,so I have a few requirements. You must always take responsibility for your mistakes so we can fix it right away learn the lesson move on. There are so many moving parts in Interior Design and it's impossible to be a pro at everything. Don't be foolish and not ask questions if you don't know, after all my years I am happy to learn new skills and how all things fit together to create cohesive and harmonious spaces, which still captivates all of my attention. I believe the ultimate goal is a happy life spent, so I make an effort with every moment time offers to embrace joy, have fun, laugh hard with happy tears. Very easy to be professional and have fun enjoying what you do and the people you share it with daily.
#8 My Recommendation , Well I love Design so I would tell you to get an education it will polish your skills and give you confidence. Become a sponge and look at the world around you, really look and see how all things fit together, there is design in everything. Find places where they can fit together better and fix it , it's good practice and you will discover your artistic voice.
#9 Getting along with co-workers No not always. Creative people are emotionally driven, we feel our art, it's not mechanical so feeling get bruised if you are not careful when collaborating. Understand artistic sensitivity and be kind always but be true to your design.
Wow! I made it 10 Oh boy my schedule 🤪🤔🫨🥴🥳💃😏🫣🥲😄! Busy and never the same. I will have spent the evening preparing paperwork and drawings of window treatments and custom bedding, upholstery to drop off at the workroom where I will consult with the seamstress and detail the specs with her. Make sure the proper work order is attached to the correct fabric including any fringe,buttons,zippers, any details added. Get an estimated time line so I can update the client. Some days consist of a long shopping list of beautiful and or useful objects, furnishings and accessories the client and I will together shop for interrupted only by a nice lunch if time permits. Other days I spend checking job sites to insure everything is moving smoothly and are going according to design specs. I always carry a pair of old tennis shoes so if there is any help I can offer will grab a hammer, paint brush, shovel, screwdriver whatever is needed. I have become quite handy. There are days spent at my desk with paperwork tracking orders, are putting a presentation together for a new client. There is so much more in small and large details. Interior Design is full of moving parts and requires focus and you have to keep you head in the game alot of people and your clients are relying on you. Interior Design is a lot of work and not for the faint of heart but it is incredibly rewarding when your clients are in happy tears from the results and you look around and think how do I know how to do this, achieving with your hard work beautiful results time and time again. A happy life spent!