How to Become an Interior Designer

How to Become an Interior Designer

As the demand for renovation projects increases, homeowners and companies need interior design skills to help create safe, functional, and visually stunning spaces. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs for interior designers are projected to increase by 4% by 2032 with an average 9,000 new jobs expected annually. A greater focus on building codes and the need to design spaces that meet accessibility standards will also help create jobs in this field. 

If you are passionate about transforming spaces and ready to pursue a rewarding and lucrative career flexing your creative muscles, interior designer might be the perfect fit for you! Join us as we explore the journey to becoming an interior designer, the types of careers available in the field, what interior designers do, and the essential steps to get started. 

Types of Interior Design Careers 

Before embarking on your journey to start an interior design career, it is crucial to understand the two primary branches of this field: residential and commercial interior design. 

Residential Interior Designers 

Residential interior designers focus on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces for private clients. Their work includes designing homes, apartments, and individual rooms to reflect the homeowner’s style and preferences. 

Commercial Interior Designers 

Commercial interior designers specialize in designing spaces for businesses, institutions, and other organizations. They enhance the functionality and aesthetics of offices, retail stores, hotels, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. 

What Does an Interior Designer Do? 

Interior design professionals are the creative minds behind transforming empty spaces into visually appealing and functional areas. They work closely with clients to: 

• Assess Needs: Understand the client’s requirements, style preferences, and budget constraints. 
• Conceptualize: Develop design concepts and create visual representations like mood boards and sketches. 
• Select Materials and Furnishings: Choose appropriate colors, materials, furniture, and decor. 
• Space Planning: Optimize space utilization for both aesthetics and functionality. 
• Project Management: Oversee the entire design process, including budgeting and scheduling. 
• Implementation: Coordinate with contractors and artisans for the execution of the design. 

What Do Commercial and Residential Interior Designers Earn? 

Interior designer salaries can vary widely depending on factors like location, experience, and specialization. 

As of August 2023, Salary.com reports that the average residential interior designer earns between $50,905 and $68,381 annually. Commercial interior designers tend to earn slightly higher, ranging from $68,751 to $88,589. 

The BLS also notes the top-paying areas for interior designers are the District of Columbia ($88,870), Massachusetts ($78,480), California ($77,660), Rhode Island ($75,010), and South Dakota ($74,870). 

How Long Does It Take to Become an Interior Designer? 

The path to starting a career in interior design involves education and practical experience. Typically, a bachelor’s degree in interior design or a related field takes four years. Plus, an internship or apprenticeship will take a minimum of 2-3 years to gain practical experience. Some states may also require certification or licensing. 

Steps to Becoming an Interior Designer 

Now, let’s break down the essential steps you may have to take to become an interior designer: 

1. Certification and Licensing 

Check your local regulations by visiting your state board’s website to determine if certification or licensing is required in your area. Pursuing an industry-recognized credential can help set you apart from your competition and show future employers and/or clients you have the knowledge and skills to succeed.  

For example, obtaining a designation like the Residential Interior Designer Education (R.I.D.E.) certificate of completion credential strengthens your professional image, and highlights your excellence to future clientele. 

2. Gain Practical Experience 

Seek internships or apprenticeships with established designers or design firms to build your portfolio and develop essential interior designer skills. By gaining further experience, you can increase your earning potential and reasons to be hired full-time somewhere.   

3. Build Your Portfolio 

Document your work and create a stunning portfolio that showcases your design projects, creativity, and unique style. This will help you stand out to hiring managers and clients that would like to see examples of your past experiences/work. 

4. Stay Updated 

Interior design trends and technology are constantly evolving. To keep up with the latest developments, attending workshops, seminars, and conferences is key. It’s a great way to learn new techniques and get inspired by the work of others. 

Start a Lucrative Career with a 100% Online Interior Design Course 

Becoming an interior designer is an exciting journey that offers boundless opportunities for creativity and innovation. Whether you choose to specialize in residential or commercial design, your skills can transform spaces and improve people’s lives. 

If you are ready to start your journey, enroll now in our 100% online Certified Residential Interior Design certification course and take the first step toward a fulfilling and creative career. Upon successful course completion, you will be prepared to undertake the R.I.D.E. examination, endorsed by the Designer Society of America (DSA). 

Earning the prestigious R.I.D.E. credential from the DSA will not only elevate your professional standing but also enhance your competitiveness within the industry and help attract potential clients. Start today!