A Fresh Start: Interior Design

Published on 2008-03-07

If you're interested in creative jobs, you've probably already considered careers in art and design. Many people are drawn to interior design jobs because they are interested in architectural spaces and the visual aesthetics within them. The work of an interior designer typically includes creating appropriate floor plans, overseeing their construction and designing their decorative elements. The designer must be educated about building and safety regulations, able to estimate costs of labor and work within a budget, and communicate effectively with builders, clients and associates. They may also be responsible for organizing supplies, providing detailed instructions and writing contracts.

As with any creative job, a certain degree of natural talent is an absolute must. But if you are interested in interior design, you should start by taking some courses at a community college or university. Make sure that the school you enroll with is accredited by the Foundation for Interior Design Education Research (FIDER). These programs will teach based on up-to-date industry information and will ensure that you get the proper certifications. All professional interior designers are required to pass the National Council for Interior Design Qualifications Exam. Prerequisites for the exam include two years of specialized education and varying degrees of real-world work experience. It is also important to note that there are several specialized fields to focus on, such as interior design for commercial, hospitality, healthcare, retail, government or residential buildings.

Interior design can be a challenging field to break into. Whether you intend to build your own company or look for employment with an architecture or design firm, you will be competing for jobs with established designers. Begin by researching the architecture and design companies in your area. Contact them and include excerpts from your portfolio. You may also want to promote yourself online with a website that showcases your work and style. Patience, perseverance and a self-starter attitude are necessary for breaking into the industry.

Employers' expectations and salary rates vary across the board. Location is a key component to an interior designer's success. Areas with a lot of new construction will obviously be the most fruitful and offer the most variety. Interior design jobs generally draw a salary between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, but much higher earnings are common in high-end markets.