Creating a Beautiful Space – Interior Design Careers
Interior design has been an interest of human cultures ever since the first person decided to do something to beautify their living environment. Since interior design is a reflection of culture, it provides an important link to the history of our society. Recently there has been an interest in more than just aesthetics in interior design: color and pattern have been found to have far-reaching effects on people.
With designers now able to make profound changes in their clients’ lives, it’s important for anyone planning a career in interior design to learn more than just the basics of color and fabric. People want to know how to decorate on a budget, the durability of the materials, even how kid-friendly their decor will be! A career in this form of design can be rewarding, as long as you give it the preparation it deserves.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for 2010-2011, the demand for interior professionals is expected to increase as more home and business owners need their services. Those designers with talent, education and specialization, especially in “green technology”, have the best prospects for successful careers. Since many designers hire their services or do freelance work, it’s also a good idea to have business sense (or at least a few classes to help you) and good interpersonal and communication skills. Many professionals find success by specializing in a specific field, such as home interior design, creating more efficient and ergonomic office environments, or modifying homes and businesses to assist clients with disabilities. Also, it’s a good idea to have some training in CAD (Computer Aided Design) and other software applications.
Entry-level positions in design require completion of a training program from professional design schools or from colleges or universities. Where you earn your certificate matters: Earning your associate’s degree or a certificate completing a two- or three-year program typically qualifies you to be a professional interior design assistant, and a bachelor’s degree typically qualifies you for an apprenticeship program. There are around 300 accredited schools that a budding interior designer can attend, and many of them can help you find employment. Also, it’s important to compile a portfolio of his work—the sketches and photos in this collection allow employers to see how he uses space, color, and layout. After your training, you will most likely start out as an assistant or apprentice, working one or more years with an experienced designer until you show the aptitude to work on your own. At this point, depending on the state, you may need a license to continue your career.
Interior design professionals, on average, earn a salary between $33,160 and $47,519, according to payscale.com. The majority (92%) of interior designers are women, and the majority (85%) of interior designers have been beautifying living spaces for less than ten years. The best cities to work as an interior designer are San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles, and freelance interior designers tend to be the highest paid.
If you have the style, education, and versatility to expand your practical knowledge to meet the needs of an ever-expanding market, a career in interior design – making it beautiful, one space at a time – could work for you. .