Why Interior Design School is the Best Way to Start a Career

Distinguishing yourself as an interior designer takes a degree first and experience second.

by Joe Cooper
Interior Design School Search Columnist

Interior designers play the most important role in the design process. One part project manager, one part aesthetic advisor, and one part client liaison (and the list goes on), designers should have the education first, and the experience second, in order to create effective designs.

True Interior Designers

There are many roles in interior design, from retail management to architecture. Finding your niche as an interior designer can be difficult, but there are a few key things that distinguish true interior designers from others in the design process.

As writer Catherine Peressini said recently, in her design column for a Montana newspaper, there is a difference between a “design consultant” and an interior designer. In retail design stores, a consultant can show you products and services, and help you in the beginning stage of the process. When it comes to actual material selection, floorplans, and especially construction, it’s an interior designer that clients need.

Whether you work for private clients or for a design firm, it is important to distinguish yourself as a true interior designer.

Learning the Skills and Starting Out

The best way to learn the essential skills, such as spatial planning and 3D design software expertise, is through interior design school. There you can also build your portfolio and possibly get an internship that could help shape your career.

Ms. Peressini also writes, “Learning everything you need to know through experience instead of education” is difficult, if not impossible, in interior design. Besides, as the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, most employers and clients look for designers who have a degree (and often a state certification). Interior design school is the best way to gain these qualifications. To get started, many schools only require that you have a traditional or online high school diploma. Next, research schools to find the interior design school that's right for you.

Source(s)

Helena Independent Record
US Bureau of Labor Statistics

About the author

Joe Cooper is a freelance education and technology writer and edits medical literature. He holds a bachelor's in American Literature from UCLA.

Posted on April 2, 2010

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