5 answers
Alaina
Student
1
Question
Updated
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Hi there! What are the steps to become an Interior Designer?
I'm a Junior in Highschool and am working towards becoming an interior designer! I would first like to get an internship right out of school then start working with a company. But I want to be sure that I'm actually taking the necessary steps towards my goal...advice would be great! (tests, degrees, certificates, etc.)
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5 answers
Adrienne Brumfield
Interior Designer
2
Answers
Rockwall, Texas
Updated
Adrienne’s Answer
Hi Alaina,
You’re already ahead of the game by knowing what you’re passionate about and actively seeking ways to pursue a career in interior design! Here’s some tailored advice to help you move forward with clarity and confidence:
Define Your Vision: You've taken the first step by identifying your passion. Next, think about what you want to achieve as an interior designer. Is it creating spaces that enhance aesthetic appeal, promoting wellness, or focusing on sustainable design? Identifying this purpose will guide your decisions as you progress.
Educational Path: Interior design is both an art and a science. Look for degree programs accredited by organizations like the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). These programs will not only give you essential design skills but also provide a solid foundation in safety codes, environmental psychology, and sustainability practices.
Certifications & Licenses: After getting your degree, becoming certified through the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) can enhance your credibility. Some states require licensure for interior designers, so research the requirements in the areas where you might want to work.
Build Your Skill Set Early: In high school, focus on courses in art, computer-aided design (CAD), architecture, and even business. A portfolio will be important for college applications and beyond, so keep samples of any relevant projects or design work.
Find an Internship: After graduating, internships will provide hands-on experience in areas like client relations, project management, and budgeting. Look for companies that align with your interests, whether residential, commercial, or specialized spaces. Interning will give you practical exposure and help you decide if a particular field is the right fit for you.
Network and Stay Updated: Attend industry events, join professional organizations like ASID (American Society of Interior Designers), and connect with professionals in the field. Staying current with design trends and innovations will also help you find inspiration and develop a unique style.
With each step, remind yourself of why you’re passionate about this field and enjoy the process of learning and creating!
You’re already ahead of the game by knowing what you’re passionate about and actively seeking ways to pursue a career in interior design! Here’s some tailored advice to help you move forward with clarity and confidence:
Define Your Vision: You've taken the first step by identifying your passion. Next, think about what you want to achieve as an interior designer. Is it creating spaces that enhance aesthetic appeal, promoting wellness, or focusing on sustainable design? Identifying this purpose will guide your decisions as you progress.
Educational Path: Interior design is both an art and a science. Look for degree programs accredited by organizations like the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). These programs will not only give you essential design skills but also provide a solid foundation in safety codes, environmental psychology, and sustainability practices.
Certifications & Licenses: After getting your degree, becoming certified through the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) can enhance your credibility. Some states require licensure for interior designers, so research the requirements in the areas where you might want to work.
Build Your Skill Set Early: In high school, focus on courses in art, computer-aided design (CAD), architecture, and even business. A portfolio will be important for college applications and beyond, so keep samples of any relevant projects or design work.
Find an Internship: After graduating, internships will provide hands-on experience in areas like client relations, project management, and budgeting. Look for companies that align with your interests, whether residential, commercial, or specialized spaces. Interning will give you practical exposure and help you decide if a particular field is the right fit for you.
Network and Stay Updated: Attend industry events, join professional organizations like ASID (American Society of Interior Designers), and connect with professionals in the field. Staying current with design trends and innovations will also help you find inspiration and develop a unique style.
With each step, remind yourself of why you’re passionate about this field and enjoy the process of learning and creating!
Wow! Thank you so much, Mrs. Brumfield! This information is super helpful!! I really appreciate your thorough response! I do already have some experience within the field but need a lot more of it, so I will definitely look into your amazing advice! Thanks again!
Alaina
John Hand
User Experience Designer
20
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
John’s Answer
- Take a look at Interior Designer job listings and focus on the experience and skills required.
- Find some interior designers, and ask them about how they got started, their journey, and their career path. If they're open to it, see if you could shadow them to find out what their day-to-day looks like.
- Seek out internship opportunities where you can work with and learn from professionals. Contact the companies directly and ask them what they look for in their internship candidates. Let them know you'd like to work towards your goals to be a top candidate.
- Look for a mentor who is willing to talk with you and help answer questions and guide you to help you achieve your goals.
- Find some interior designers, and ask them about how they got started, their journey, and their career path. If they're open to it, see if you could shadow them to find out what their day-to-day looks like.
- Seek out internship opportunities where you can work with and learn from professionals. Contact the companies directly and ask them what they look for in their internship candidates. Let them know you'd like to work towards your goals to be a top candidate.
- Look for a mentor who is willing to talk with you and help answer questions and guide you to help you achieve your goals.
Thank you for the response, Mr. Hand! In fact, I actually have done a few of your suggestions already: I babysit for an Interior Designer and have been able to shadow a few of her job appointments, as well as ask her a plethora of questions about how she got started! I will also look into your other recommendations. Really helpful information you've shared. Thanks so much!
Alaina
Pam Ode-Woznick
interior designer/photographer
13
Answers
Novi, Michigan
Updated
Pam’s Answer
It's commendable that you're seeking answers to these questions. When I was in high school, I immersed myself in every possible art class, exploring all forms of media, simply because it was my passion. Try to break free from the conventional and tackle your assignments in the most distinctive and succinct manner possible.
Before you step into university, make a point to visit the companies that pique your interest. Get in touch with their HR representative or department head, share your aspirations with them, and respectfully ask for their guidance. Be prepared to take notes and ask insightful questions.
You have numerous chances to utilize your skills and can switch paths if needed, but first, you need a solid foundation. By foundation, I'm referring to basic skills that you can start cultivating right now. Develop a sharp understanding of balance in a broader context, including proportion, spatial arrangement of objects, color intensity, juxtaposition of elements, and overall criteria. If you can, secure a position at a firm or offer your services for the sake of learning. Absorb knowledge from everyone you can. Through this process, you might discover the design aspect you're most passionate about.
You could start with residential design, then experiment with corporate offices, collaborate with builders, hospitals, restaurants, product design, and sales of interior-related products. Most of these fields will necessitate computer skills, so make sure to inquire about this as you refine your design direction.
In my case, I was most drawn to corporate design. This field typically requires a university BA and usually a certificate from NCIDQ, which involves a two-day test. While pursuing these goals, consider joining ASID as a resource for learning from like-minded individuals. There's also a membership group for kitchen and bath designers that you might consider joining.
I understand that all these options might seem daunting, but rest assured, you'll discover your unique interests along the way and might even stumble upon unexpected opportunities. Success in any design aspect can be applied to your specific specialty, perhaps even textile design. You won't know until you step out and explore. Keep an open mind, stay curious, and most importantly, enjoy your journey.
Before you step into university, make a point to visit the companies that pique your interest. Get in touch with their HR representative or department head, share your aspirations with them, and respectfully ask for their guidance. Be prepared to take notes and ask insightful questions.
You have numerous chances to utilize your skills and can switch paths if needed, but first, you need a solid foundation. By foundation, I'm referring to basic skills that you can start cultivating right now. Develop a sharp understanding of balance in a broader context, including proportion, spatial arrangement of objects, color intensity, juxtaposition of elements, and overall criteria. If you can, secure a position at a firm or offer your services for the sake of learning. Absorb knowledge from everyone you can. Through this process, you might discover the design aspect you're most passionate about.
You could start with residential design, then experiment with corporate offices, collaborate with builders, hospitals, restaurants, product design, and sales of interior-related products. Most of these fields will necessitate computer skills, so make sure to inquire about this as you refine your design direction.
In my case, I was most drawn to corporate design. This field typically requires a university BA and usually a certificate from NCIDQ, which involves a two-day test. While pursuing these goals, consider joining ASID as a resource for learning from like-minded individuals. There's also a membership group for kitchen and bath designers that you might consider joining.
I understand that all these options might seem daunting, but rest assured, you'll discover your unique interests along the way and might even stumble upon unexpected opportunities. Success in any design aspect can be applied to your specific specialty, perhaps even textile design. You won't know until you step out and explore. Keep an open mind, stay curious, and most importantly, enjoy your journey.
Hi, Mrs. Pam! I really appreciate your thorough response! Thank you so much for these tips. I will definitely look into them!
Alaina
Mauricio Chaves
Interior Designer
24
Answers
Doorn, Netherlands
Updated
Mauricio’s Answer
Dear Alaina,
It’s fantastic that you’re already thinking about your future as an interior designer while still in high school. Starting early gives you a great advantage! Here’s a roadmap tailored to your current stage and long-term goals:
- Steps You Can Take Now (as a High School Junior):
1- Build Your Design Foundations: Take relevant classes: If your school offers art, graphic design, or drafting classes, prioritize them. These will build skills in creativity and spatial understanding.
2- Learn the basics of design software: Programs like SketchUp, AutoCAD, or Adobe Photoshop are commonly used in interior design. You can find free tutorials online to start exploring.
3- Get Involved with Design Projects:
4- Offer to help friends or family redecorate their spaces—it’s a fun way to develop your eye for design.
5- Create mood boards or small projects for practice. Websites like Pinterest or Canva can be great tools for visualizing your ideas.
6- Seek Out Opportunities:
a) Look for internships or shadowing experiences with local design firms, furniture stores, or even architecture firms.
b) Attend design-related events or expos in Atlanta to network and gain inspiration.
c) Research Colleges and Programs:
d) Begin exploring universities or colleges with accredited interior design programs. In the U.S., CIDA-accredited programs are highly respected.
Schools like SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) or Georgia State University have strong design programs near you.
7- Prepare a Portfolio: Start documenting your creative work, including sketches, room layouts, or mood boards. A strong portfolio is essential for college applications.
- Steps After High School:
1- Pursue an Accredited Degree: Most professional interior designers earn a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design. Look for programs accredited by CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation). During your degree, you’ll study topics like space planning, color theory, textiles, and more.
2- Internships and Networking:
3- Many design schools offer internship opportunities—these are crucial for gaining experience and building connections in the industry.
4- Licensing and Certifications: Some states, including Georgia, require certification to work as an interior designer. This typically involves passing the NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) exam after gaining work experience. Consider additional certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) to specialize in sustainable design.
5- Find Your First Job or Start Freelancing: Once you have a degree and experience, you can apply to work at design firms or even start taking on your own clients.
Bonus Tip:
Follow interior designers and design firms on social media (like Instagram or Pinterest). It’s a great way to stay inspired and learn what’s trending in the industry!
You’re on the right track by planning ahead. If you stay curious and proactive, you’ll set yourself up for success in this creative and rewarding career. Best of luck!
May the force be with you.
It’s fantastic that you’re already thinking about your future as an interior designer while still in high school. Starting early gives you a great advantage! Here’s a roadmap tailored to your current stage and long-term goals:
- Steps You Can Take Now (as a High School Junior):
1- Build Your Design Foundations: Take relevant classes: If your school offers art, graphic design, or drafting classes, prioritize them. These will build skills in creativity and spatial understanding.
2- Learn the basics of design software: Programs like SketchUp, AutoCAD, or Adobe Photoshop are commonly used in interior design. You can find free tutorials online to start exploring.
3- Get Involved with Design Projects:
4- Offer to help friends or family redecorate their spaces—it’s a fun way to develop your eye for design.
5- Create mood boards or small projects for practice. Websites like Pinterest or Canva can be great tools for visualizing your ideas.
6- Seek Out Opportunities:
a) Look for internships or shadowing experiences with local design firms, furniture stores, or even architecture firms.
b) Attend design-related events or expos in Atlanta to network and gain inspiration.
c) Research Colleges and Programs:
d) Begin exploring universities or colleges with accredited interior design programs. In the U.S., CIDA-accredited programs are highly respected.
Schools like SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) or Georgia State University have strong design programs near you.
7- Prepare a Portfolio: Start documenting your creative work, including sketches, room layouts, or mood boards. A strong portfolio is essential for college applications.
- Steps After High School:
1- Pursue an Accredited Degree: Most professional interior designers earn a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design. Look for programs accredited by CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation). During your degree, you’ll study topics like space planning, color theory, textiles, and more.
2- Internships and Networking:
3- Many design schools offer internship opportunities—these are crucial for gaining experience and building connections in the industry.
4- Licensing and Certifications: Some states, including Georgia, require certification to work as an interior designer. This typically involves passing the NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) exam after gaining work experience. Consider additional certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) to specialize in sustainable design.
5- Find Your First Job or Start Freelancing: Once you have a degree and experience, you can apply to work at design firms or even start taking on your own clients.
Bonus Tip:
Follow interior designers and design firms on social media (like Instagram or Pinterest). It’s a great way to stay inspired and learn what’s trending in the industry!
You’re on the right track by planning ahead. If you stay curious and proactive, you’ll set yourself up for success in this creative and rewarding career. Best of luck!
May the force be with you.
Thank you, Mr. Chaves for your thorough response! I really appreciate it; this is such helpful information! I will consider your suggestions. Thanks again!
Alaina
Mohammed Ibrahim
3D Artist and Game Developer
2
Answers
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Updated
Mohammed’s Answer
Choosing to become an Interior Designer is a fantastic decision, especially considering the growth of the industry! It's heartening to see students who are eager and ready to plunge into design careers! Here's a straightforward piece of advice, I'll keep it simple since you're just starting out. Just follow the steps outlined below.
First off, let's go through the steps:
1. Understand the Field: Before you jump in, it's important to do some homework. Understand how the interior design process works. Gather all the necessary information and figure out where your interests lie within the field.
2. Build up your skills: If you're truly passionate about interior design, focus on improving your skills. Choose the software tools you want to learn for your work and research how they are used. This will give you a good overview.
3. Certification: In the design field, your skills and work are more important than any certificate or degree. Don't spend unnecessary money and time on institutes. There are plenty of online platforms where you can learn for free or get certified for a small fee. It's better to invest in a laptop or PC and learn on your own.
4. Develop a Portfolio: It's crucial to work on your own projects! Create imaginary clients and design for them. Share your projects on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. If you're already working as an interior designer, continue to enhance your skills and keep working on personal projects.
5. Practical Experience: Networking is key. Connect with people online, discuss the design process, and engage with professionals. Keep improving yourself. If your work stands out, you may even receive projects from others online.
I hope you find this helpful! Best wishes,
Mohammed Ibrahim
Understand the Field
Build up your skills
Look for some institutes for degree or certificate
Develop a Portfolio
Gain Practical Experience
First off, let's go through the steps:
1. Understand the Field: Before you jump in, it's important to do some homework. Understand how the interior design process works. Gather all the necessary information and figure out where your interests lie within the field.
2. Build up your skills: If you're truly passionate about interior design, focus on improving your skills. Choose the software tools you want to learn for your work and research how they are used. This will give you a good overview.
3. Certification: In the design field, your skills and work are more important than any certificate or degree. Don't spend unnecessary money and time on institutes. There are plenty of online platforms where you can learn for free or get certified for a small fee. It's better to invest in a laptop or PC and learn on your own.
4. Develop a Portfolio: It's crucial to work on your own projects! Create imaginary clients and design for them. Share your projects on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. If you're already working as an interior designer, continue to enhance your skills and keep working on personal projects.
5. Practical Experience: Networking is key. Connect with people online, discuss the design process, and engage with professionals. Keep improving yourself. If your work stands out, you may even receive projects from others online.
I hope you find this helpful! Best wishes,
Mohammed Ibrahim
Mohammed recommends the following next steps:
Wow! Thank you so much, Mr. Ibrahim! I truly appreciate your thorough response. This is such helpful information for me!!
Alaina