How to Become an Interior Designer (Revamp Rooms, Reveal Style!)

If you’ve ever envisioned creating aesthetically pleasing spaces or wondered what it takes to become an interior designer, you’ve landed on the right page.

In this guide, we’ll traverse the EXACT steps you need to embark on your journey to a career as an interior designer. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The education that can propel you to success.
How to secure your first job as an interior designer.

So, whether you’re a design novice or a creative individual looking to upskill, keep reading.

We’re about to unfold the roadmap to becoming an interior designer.

Let’s dive in!

Contents show

Steps to Become an Interior Designer

Step 1: Research the Profession

Before beginning your journey towards becoming an interior designer, it is vital to understand the profession thoroughly.

Start by researching the daily responsibilities and tasks an interior designer undertakes.

This includes creating or modifying interior spaces to meet the client’s needs, improving the functionality and aesthetics of the interior space, and coordinating with contractors and architects.

Also, research the necessary skills and traits an interior designer should possess.

This could be a strong sense of creativity, great interpersonal skills, knowledge in the latest design trends, and a keen eye for detail.

Understanding the industry is also crucial.

This means familiarizing yourself with different design styles, materials, furniture, and color theories.

Also, take time to understand the industry standards and trends.

Lastly, look into the earning potential and job market in your area or where you intend to practice.

It may be beneficial to speak with professionals in the field to gain a realistic expectation of the profession and to understand the challenges and rewards it offers.

Remember, the goal of this step is not just to understand the profession, but also to help you decide if this is the right career path for you.

Step 2: Pursue Appropriate Education

Aspiring interior designers should invest in obtaining a bachelor’s degree in interior design or a related field such as architecture or fine arts.

This will provide you with the required knowledge and skills to understand space planning, textiles, color theory, and other essential interior design concepts.

During your bachelor’s program, you will engage in hands-on training through studio courses.

You will also take courses in computer-aided design (CAD), drawing, and history of design.

These courses will provide you with the technical skills required in the field and a broader perspective on design trends and movements.

Additionally, some programs offer concentrations such as sustainable design or commercial design that allow you to specialize in a specific area of interior design.

This can be beneficial for those who know which area they want to focus their careers on.

In addition to your bachelor’s degree, it’s also beneficial to seek out internships with design firms, architects, or furniture companies.

This will provide you with practical, real-world experience that can greatly enhance your resume and your skills.

Finally, it’s worth noting that many states in the U.S. require interior designers to be licensed, and this often involves completing an accredited degree program and gaining some professional experience, so consider this as you plan your educational path.

Step 3: Develop a Strong Portfolio

As an aspiring interior designer, having a strong portfolio is critical for showcasing your design skills, creativity, and versatility to potential clients or employers.

Your portfolio should include a variety of design projects that demonstrate your ability to balance aesthetics and functionality, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and understanding of color, materials, and lighting.

Start building your portfolio during your degree or course.

Include any work you do during your internships, group projects, or individual assignments.

You can also undertake personal projects or volunteer to do some interior design work for friends or family to add to your portfolio.

Ensure to include before and after photographs of your designs, sketches, digital renderings, mood boards, and samples of materials and fabrics you’ve used.

It’s also beneficial to include a brief description of each project, explaining the design problem, your approach, and the final solution.

In today’s digital age, it’s also important to have an online version of your portfolio.

You can create a website or use professional networking sites to showcase your work.

Remember, your portfolio is a work in progress.

As you gain more experience and work on more complex projects, continue to update and refine your portfolio.

A well-structured and visually appealing portfolio can make a strong impression and set you apart in a competitive field like interior design.

Step 4: Learn Interior Design Software

In the field of interior design, proficiency in design software is essential.

These programs aid in creating digital representations of designs, enabling you to present your ideas to clients in a realistic and visually appealing format.

The industry-standard software programs include AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Photoshop, and 3D Studio Max.

You may learn these software programs while studying for your degree, but you can also take additional courses online or at design schools.

Remember, the better you are at using these tools, the more efficient and effective your design process will be.

When learning these software programs, make sure to familiarize yourself with their various features and capabilities.

For instance, learn how to create 2D and 3D designs, how to add textures and materials, and how to use lighting effects to create different moods.

Remember to continually update your skills as software capabilities and trends in the industry evolve.

This continuous learning will help you stay competitive and deliver the highest quality work to your clients.

Step 5: Gain Work Experience

After completing your education, it’s time to gain practical experience in the field of interior design.

You can do this through internships or entry-level positions in design firms, furniture stores, or home improvement companies.

This allows you to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting and helps you develop professional skills such as project management, client communication, and design implementation.

Work experience also gives you an opportunity to create a portfolio of your work, which is critical when you’re applying for jobs or freelance projects.

As you work on various projects, document each one by taking before and after photos, creating design sketches, and writing a brief description about the design process and client goals.

Another important aspect is networking.

Attend industry events and join professional organizations to meet other professionals in the industry.

This can lead to job opportunities and can help you stay up-to-date with the latest design trends and technologies.

Remember, the more experience you have, the more attractive you’ll be to potential employers.

You may also consider specializing in a particular area of interior design such as sustainable design, ergonomic design, or residential design.

This can further boost your career and open up more job opportunities.

Step 6: Understand Building Codes and Regulations

As an interior designer, a key part of your job will involve designing spaces that are not only visually appealing, but also safe and functional.

This will often require a thorough understanding of building codes and regulations.

These rules can vary by location, but generally involve standards for safety, accessibility, and sustainability.

For example, you need to know how to design a space that adheres to fire safety regulations, such as including enough exits and ensuring materials used are non-flammable.

You should also be familiar with regulations related to accessibility, such as wheelchair accessibility standards in public buildings.

Additionally, as sustainability becomes more important, you might also need to know about energy-efficient design principles and green building codes.

To learn about these codes and regulations, you can take specialized courses or workshops.

Some interior design degree programs might include these topics in their curriculum.

Staying informed about changes in these codes and regulations is also crucial, so continuous learning and staying updated is a must.

Finally, it’s important to remember that failure to comply with these rules can lead to serious consequences, including fines and legal action.

Therefore, understanding building codes and regulations is a critical step in your career as an interior designer.

Step 7: Network with Industry Professionals

As you progress in your interior design career, it’s crucial to establish connections with industry professionals.

Networking can open doors to job opportunities, provide valuable insights into the industry, and help you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in interior design.

Start by joining professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) or the International Interior Design Association (IIDA).

These organizations offer member resources, educational seminars, and networking events which can be valuable in building your professional network.

Beyond professional organizations, consider attending trade shows, conferences, and design exhibitions.

These events provide opportunities to meet vendors, manufacturers, architects, and other design professionals who can potentially become important connections in your career.

Lastly, make use of online platforms such as LinkedIn to connect with professionals from the interior design industry worldwide.

Remember, networking is not a one-time event but a continuous process of building and maintaining professional relationships.

Stay in touch with your contacts, keep them updated on your career progress, and always be open to helping others in your network.

Step 8: Stay Updated with Design Trends

As an interior designer, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest design trends and industry advancements.

This involves continuously learning and adapting to new styles, technologies, and materials used in interior design.

You can keep pace with the evolving trends by attending industry trade shows, design expos, and interior design workshops.

Subscribing to top design magazines and following influential interior designers on social media platforms can also help you stay informed about new trends and techniques.

In addition, it is important to familiarize yourself with emerging digital tools and software used in interior designing.

Technological advancements such as virtual reality and 3D modeling have revolutionized the way designers conceptualize and execute their projects.

By mastering these tools, you can enhance your design capabilities and stay competitive in the market.

Another effective way to stay current is by undertaking regular professional development courses or certifications.

These can provide you with a deeper understanding of new design methodologies, sustainability practices, or specialized areas of design such as hospitality or commercial design.

Remember, clients value designers who are well-informed and able to incorporate the latest design trends into their work.

By staying updated, you not only improve your skills but also increase your marketability and reputation in the industry.

Step 9: Certify Your Skills

Once you have gained some professional experience as an interior designer, it is crucial to certify your skills.

A certification can provide proof of your knowledge, expertise, and dedication to the field, which can make you stand out to potential clients or employers.

Several organizations offer certifications for interior designers.

For example, in the United States, the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) offers a certification that is widely recognized in the industry.

To earn this certification, you must have a certain amount of education and professional experience, and you must pass a three-part exam.

Another popular certification is the Certified Interior Decorators International (CIDI) certification.

This certification is available to professionals who have completed an approved interior decorating program and passed an exam.

Besides these, there are also specialty certifications in areas like kitchen and bath design, sustainable design, and residential design.

Getting certified not only elevates your professional standing but also helps you stay updated with the latest trends and practices in the industry, making you a more versatile and sought-after interior designer.

Step 10: Launch Your Interior Design Career

After you’ve completed your education, gained hands-on experience through internships, and earned your certification, it’s time to launch your interior design career.

Start by identifying potential employers in your area – these could be interior design firms, architectural firms, or even furniture retailers.

Prepare a strong portfolio that showcases your best work and demonstrates your design style, creativity, and attention to detail.

Some designers choose to start their own businesses.

This route allows for more flexibility and control over the kind of projects you take on, but it also comes with its own set of challenges such as finding clients, marketing your services, and managing your business operations.

Whether you choose to work for a firm or go solo, remember that continuous learning and networking are essential.

Attend industry events and seminars, stay updated with the latest design trends and software, and strive for certifications that can add credibility to your profile and help you advance in your career.

The world of interior design is competitive, but with passion, persistence, and a commitment to excellence, you can carve out a successful career in this exciting field.

Interior Designer Roles and Responsibilities

Interior Designers use creativity, technical knowledge, and an understanding of interior spaces to create functional and aesthetically pleasing environments.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Designing

Create and present interior design concepts in response to client needs.
Create sketches, plans, and detailed drawings of rooms, furniture, fixtures, and decor.
Use computer-aided design (CAD) software for design plans.

Project Planning

Estimate material requirements and costs, and present design to client for approval.
Develop project timelines and work schedules.
Coordinate with other professionals, such as contractors, architects, engineers, and plumbers.

Material Selection

Select and specify materials and finishes for spaces.
Choose color palettes, furniture, fixtures, and lighting.

Client Communication

Meet with clients to determine their interior design preferences, budget, and timeline.
Communicate effectively with clients, vendors, and team members.

Space Planning

Analyze the function of the space and the lifestyle of the occupants to ensure designs meet needs.
Design spaces to be functional, safe, and meet the clients’ needs.

Building Codes and Safety Regulations

Understand and adhere to local building codes and regulations.
Ensure designs meet accessibility and safety standards.

Installation Supervision

Oversee and manage installation of design elements.
Inspect and approve completed projects to ensure quality and adherence to the design plan.

Problem Solving

Address and resolve any issues or challenges that arise during the project.
Use creative problem-solving to overcome design and construction challenges.

Documentation

Create and maintain project documentation, including contracts, purchase orders, and schedules.
Prepare project budgets and maintain financial records.

Continuing Education

Stay current on interior design trends and innovations.
Attend trade shows, product launches, and continuing education opportunities.

What Does an Interior Designer Do?

Interior Designers are professionals who plan and design interior spaces, focusing on aesthetic appeal, functionality, and safety.

They work in various settings, from residential to commercial, designing and redefining spaces to meet the needs and tastes of their clients.

They study the interior space, assess its functionality, and understand the client’s needs and style preferences.

This involves sketching preliminary design plans, which may include furniture placement, color choices, textures, lighting, and accessories.

Interior Designers often collaborate with architects, electricians, plumbers, and other professionals to ensure that the design concepts and plans are feasible and compliant with building regulations and codes.

They are also responsible for estimating the cost of a project, including materials and labor, and managing the budget throughout the entire project.

They source and purchase furniture, materials, and other decor items, often working with manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers.

Interior Designers often oversee the project’s installation and finishing touches, ensuring that the final result matches the initial design concept and meets the client’s expectations.

They are also in charge of addressing and resolving any issues or problems that arise during the project.

Some Interior Designers may also specialize in specific types of design, such as sustainable design, universal design, or in designing certain types of spaces, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or commercial interiors.

Essential Interior Designer Skills

Creativity: Interior designers must have a creative mind and artistic flair. They should be able to imagine and implement unique ideas that enhance the aesthetics and functionality of a space.
Communication: Excellent communication skills are key for interior designers. They must clearly convey their design ideas to clients and collaborate effectively with contractors, architects, and other professionals.
Technical Drawing: Designers need to translate their ideas into technical drawings and sketches, either by hand or using computer-aided design (CAD) software. This helps clients and contractors understand the design plans.
Space Planning: This involves efficiently using a space’s dimensions and structure to arrange furniture and other elements. This skill is essential for creating practical and attractive interior designs.
Knowledge of Materials and Fabrics: Interior designers must have extensive knowledge of various materials and fabrics to determine what will look best and function well in a particular space.
Color Theory: Understanding color theory and how different colors interact with each other is essential to create harmonious and appealing designs.
Budgeting: Designers should be able to plan and adhere to budgets, ensuring the project remains cost-effective without compromising quality.
Project Management: From planning stages to final installation, interior designers often manage entire projects. This requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage time effectively.
Knowledge of Building Codes and Regulations: Designers should have a firm understanding of local building codes, ADA requirements, and other regulations to ensure the design is compliant.
Computer Skills: Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Suite is crucial in today’s digital age. These tools help in creating realistic renderings and presentations.
Understanding of Architectural Elements: A good interior designer should understand architectural elements and how they impact a space. This includes knowledge of various architectural styles, as well as architectural drafting.
Trend Awareness: Designers should stay up-to-date with the latest design trends, new materials, and innovative technologies in the interior design industry.
Problem-Solving: Challenges often arise during a design project. A successful interior designer must be able to think on their feet and come up with solutions that satisfy the client while maintaining the design’s integrity.
Customer Service: Interior design is a service-based industry. Designers need to build strong relationships with clients, understand their needs, and exceed their expectations for successful project outcomes.
Sustainability Awareness: With the increasing focus on environmental conservation, designers should have knowledge of sustainable design practices and materials.

Interior Designer Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior Interior Designer

Your journey typically begins as a Junior Interior Designer.

At this stage, you are learning to bring creative ideas to life, understanding the nuances of design, and helping in various design-related tasks.

Your responsibilities may include drawing design plans, assisting in material selection, and coordinating with suppliers.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Learn Continuously: Keep yourself updated with the latest design trends and architectural techniques.
Seek Mentorship: Learn from the experiences of senior designers and ask for their guidance in your projects.
Contribute Actively: Show enthusiasm in your work and take ownership of your assigned tasks.

The Ascent: Interior Designer

With gained experience and confidence, you can transition into the role of an Interior Designer.

You will handle more complex projects, collaborate with architects, and become a key part of the design team.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

Creative Problem Solving: Enhance your problem-solving skills by handling challenging design situations.
Collaboration: Collaborate with other team members to produce a cohesive and pleasing design.
Quality Assurance: Focus on creating high-quality designs that meet client’s expectations and adhere to safety standards.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Interior Designer

The next step in your career is the Senior Interior Designer position.

At this stage, you are recognized for your expertise and leadership within the team.

You may lead design projects, guide junior designers, and ensure customer satisfaction.

To excel as a Senior Interior Designer:

Mentorship: Share your knowledge and help junior designers grow.
Architectural Thinking: Consider the overall structure and functionality of the space while designing.
Leadership: Lead by example and inspire others with your creativity and work ethic.

Beyond the Horizon: Lead Roles and Beyond

As you progress in your career, you may choose to specialize in a particular area, such as becoming a Principal Designer, Design Director, or even a Design Consultant.

Each of these roles involves greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making.

Here’s what to focus on:

Design Leadership: Drive design initiatives and shape the design direction of your projects and teams.
Management Skills: If you transition into management, develop strong leadership and communication skills to guide your team effectively.
Innovation: Continue to innovate and stay at the forefront of design trends.

Pinnacle of Success: Creative Director or VP of Design

You may reach roles like Creative Director or VP of Design at the highest levels of the interior design career ladder.

Here, you’ll be responsible for shaping the overall design strategy of the organization, making critical decisions, and managing larger teams.

Interior Designer Salary

Entry-Level Interior Designer

Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
Entry-level interior designers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold a bachelor’s degree in interior design or related fields.

Mid-Level Interior Designer

Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
Mid-level designers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex design projects, including project management and client interfacing.

Senior Interior Designer

Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
Senior designers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading projects, making design decisions, and mentoring junior designers.

Design Director / Interior Design Manager

Median Salary: $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and often involve design leadership, project management, and strategic decision-making.

Principal Designer / Creative Director

Median Salary: $100,000 – $140,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, a deep understanding of design, and often involve setting design strategies for a company.

Interior Designer Work Environment

Interior Designers typically work in a variety of settings, depending on the client’s needs.

They can be found in design firms, architectural firms, or they may be self-employed, working from their own home or office.

The work of an Interior Designer is often project-based, which means they may need to travel to different locations to meet clients, inspect spaces, purchase materials, or oversee installations.

This can make their schedules quite variable, depending on the deadlines and scope of the projects they are working on.

Some Interior Designers might specialize in designing for specific settings like homes, hotels, restaurants, or commercial spaces.

They often have to interact with various professionals like architects, contractors, and suppliers, which requires excellent communication and negotiation skills.

The work environment of an Interior Designer is often highly creative and fast-paced, requiring them to stay current with design trends and material innovations.

Despite the demands of the job, it can be highly rewarding to see a design project come to fruition and witness the satisfaction of clients.

FAQs About Becoming an Interior Designer

What education is required to become an Interior Designer?

Typically, aspiring interior designers need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in interior design or a related field such as architecture or fine arts.

The program should be accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) or a similar organization.

Some states also require interior designers to be licensed or registered, which usually involves passing an exam after completing an accredited program and gaining work experience.

What skills are important for an Interior Designer?

In addition to creativity and a keen eye for design, interior designers need to possess strong communication, problem-solving, and project management skills.

They also need to be knowledgeable about building codes, accessibility standards, and sustainability practices.

Technical skills such as proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and graphic design tools are also essential in this field.

How long does it take to become an Interior Designer?

The time it takes to become an interior designer can vary depending on the individual’s educational path and experience level.

A bachelor’s degree program typically takes four years to complete.

Following this, some states require interior designers to complete a period of supervised work experience, which can be up to two years, before they are eligible to take the licensing exam.

Can I become an Interior Designer without a degree?

While a degree can provide comprehensive training and open up more job opportunities, it is possible to become an interior designer without one.

However, you will still need to have a strong portfolio showcasing your design skills and creativity.

Gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships and learning about design principles and software through self-study or online courses can also help you break into this field.

Is being an Interior Designer a stressful job?

Interior design can be a stressful job at times as it often involves meeting tight deadlines, working within budget constraints, and managing multiple projects at once.

However, the stress levels can vary depending on the specific role, company, and individual’s work-life balance and stress management strategies.

Many interior designers find the work to be fulfilling and creative, which can offset the stress.

What are the prospects for Interior Designers in the next decade?

The demand for interior designers is expected to grow in the next decade, especially in areas such as sustainable design and universal design.

The growth of the construction and real estate sectors, as well as the increasing public interest in interior design and decoration, also bodes well for the prospects in this field.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Setting out on your journey to become an interior designer is no small task, but it’s undeniably fulfilling.

Equipped with the right skills, education, and perseverance, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the design world.

Remember, the road may be tough, but the possibilities are endless. Your creations could become the next big trend that revolutionizes how we live, work, and exist in our spaces.

So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in learning. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop designing.

Because the world is eagerly anticipating what you can envision.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on kickstarting or advancing your career in interior design, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is engineered to provide customized advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career trajectory.

Interior Designer Resume Headlines

Job Scene Heroes: In-Demand Careers That Are Making Waves

Redefine Your Worth: The Ultimate Guide to High-Paying Job Opportunities!

Underpaid Reality: A Comprehensive Look at the Lowest Paying Jobs in 2025

Flex and Thrive: The Most Adaptable Careers in the Workforce

The Good Times Gig: Jobs That Bring More Than Just a Paycheck