Interior Design Job Description
What's an Interior Design Job Really Like?
One part artist, one part business professional and one part circus ringmaster, an interior designer is more than just a pretty face with an eye for beauty. From sketching, designing and arranging beautiful spaces to shopping for furniture and household accessories, there’s no shortage of excitement in an interior design career. A job in this field can provide opportunities to travel and work with a variety of people. However, no job can be all glamour. Interior designers must be able to manage people, budgets and client relationships—all while designing spaces that are attractive, functional, and meet building and safety codes.
Professionals in an interior design career must have organizational skills and business know-how, as well as great taste and artistic ability. It comes as little surprise, then, that getting an interior design degree is quickly becoming essential for those wishing to enter the interior design job market. A degree is also a licensure requirement in many states.
Skills Needed for an Interior Design Job
Artistic Ability – This is perhaps the most obvious essential trait for interior designers. You will need to provide sketches of your proposed designs for a space. CAD training may also come in handy, since the interior design process often involves using computer programs to create two and three-dimensional renderings. You will also choose colors, furniture and materials to complement the design, as well as suit your client's needs for function, durability and accessibility.
Teamwork Ability – The ability to work well with others is also a must. In an interior design job, you will communicate with clients to assess what they want and need in a space, and then present your ideas for meeting those goals in a compelling way. Your responsibilities also include coordinating with architects, electricians, plumbers and others to complete the job in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Organizational Skills – Since interior designers complete a wide range of tasks and work with many different people, organizational skills are important. You are responsible for keeping the project on budget and on schedule. You will need to document your process and the products used, and manage contracts and negotiations on your client’s behalf. In addition to these things, you need a basic knowledge of building and safety codes to ensure that your interior design plan meets all necessary requirements.
Steps to Becoming an Interior Designer
There are four steps to becoming a licensed interior designer:
Interior Design Resources
Getting Started
Interior Designer: Job Description
Planning an Interior Design Education
Prepare for Interior Design School
Top Ten Interior Design Schools
Interior Design Training Courses
Get an Interior Design Degree Online
Getting Interior Design Job Experience
NCIDQ Certification
Getting Your Interior Designer License
Interior Design School Spotlight
Industry Information
Interior Design Career Outlook
Interior Designer Salary Info
Interior Design Specialties
Home Interior Design
Sustainable Interior Design
Career Path: Interior Decorating
Interview: Starting Your Interior Designer Career
Interview: Interior Designer Career Perspective
Helpful Interior Design Links