How to Become an Interior Designer
Published on: April 15, 2025
If you have a passion for transforming spaces and a keen eye for aesthetics, a career in interior design could be the perfect path for you. Interior designers go beyond merely making rooms look attractive: They blend creativity with technical expertise to create functional, safe and visually appealing environments.
Regardless of whether you’re just starting out or looking to pivot into a new profession, this comprehensive guide walks you through what you need to know to become an interior designer. From understanding the role and responsibilities to developing the necessary skills, pursuing the right education and building a standout portfolio, read on to gain insight into launching and growing a successful career in this dynamic industry.
What Is an Interior Designer?
An interior designer is a trained professional who plans, designs and coordinates interior spaces in residential, commercial and public environments. Their goal is to enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of a space while ensuring it meets the specific needs and preferences of the client.
Unlike decorators, who focus primarily on surface-level style elements like color schemes and furnishings, interior designers take a more comprehensive approach. They consider structural elements, building codes, accessibility standards and the overall flow of a space. This combination of artistic vision and technical knowledge allows interior designers to create cohesive, livable environments that are both beautiful and practical.
What Does an Interior Designer Do?
Interior designers wear many hats, balancing creativity with strategy to shape interiors that are not only visually appealing but also functional and safe. Their day-to-day responsibilities vary depending on the project, but they typically oversee a space from initial concept to final installation. Here’s a closer look at the core aspects of their role:
Space Planning and Layout Design
Effective space planning is the foundation of interior design. Designers analyze how a space will be used and create layouts that optimize flow, functionality and comfort. This involves considering room dimensions, traffic patterns and the relationship between different areas to make the most of available square footage.
Color and Material Selection
Choosing the right color palettes, textures and materials is crucial for setting the mood and style of a space. Interior designers have a deep understanding of color theory and material properties, allowing them to select combinations that are aesthetically pleasing and appropriate for the space’s purpose and durability needs.
Furniture and Decor Selection
Furniture, artwork, rugs and accessories are key to bringing a design concept to life. Designers source pieces that align with the project’s aesthetic, scale and budget. They often customize or commission items to achieve a unique look that complements the overall design.
Lighting Design
Lighting dramatically affects the ambiance, functionality and perceived size of a space. Interior designers create layered lighting plans that include ambient, task and accent lighting. They choose fixtures and placements that enhance the design while meeting the practical needs of the space.
Budgeting and Project Management
Interior designers must manage budgets, timelines and vendors to keep projects on track. They estimate costs, track expenses and coordinate with contractors and suppliers, ensuring that each phase of the project is completed efficiently and within financial constraints.
Ensuring Compliance With Safety and Building Codes
Designers must be knowledgeable about local building codes, accessibility standards and safety regulations. They verify that designs meet legal and structural requirements, especially in commercial and public spaces, where compliance is critical.
Client Consultation and Presentation
Working closely with clients is a central part of the job. Designers gather information through consultations to understand the client’s needs, style preferences and lifestyle. They then present design concepts, mood boards, renderings and material samples to gain feedback and approval before moving forward with implementation.
Essential Interior Designer Skills
To thrive in the field of interior design, professionals must possess a diverse set of skills that blend creativity, technical knowledge and business acumen. Beyond having a good eye for color and style, successful interior designers are detail-oriented problem solvers who can manage complex projects and possess the interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with clients and collaborators. Below are some of the essential skills every aspiring interior designer should develop:
Creativity and Artistic Vision
At the heart of interior design is creativity. Designers must envision spaces that are both functional and visually compelling, often starting from a blank slate. They use their artistic sensibilities to conceptualize unique designs that reflect a client’s personality or brand while enhancing the overall environment.
Space Planning and Organization
Efficient use of space is essential to good design. Interior designers must be able to assess the layout of a room and determine how best to organize furniture, storage and circulation. Strong spatial awareness enables them to create layouts that are practical and aesthetically balanced.
Knowledge of Design Software
Proficiency in design software is a must in today’s digital design world. Programs like AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit and Adobe Creative Suite help designers draft floor plans, render 3D models and present polished visual concepts to clients. These tools are what can ultimately turn ideas into tangible plans.
Attention to Detail
Interior designers must manage countless details — from selecting the right shade of paint to ensuring furniture measurements fit within a room’s dimensions. A keen eye for detail helps confirm that each element of the design contributes to the overall harmony and function of the space.
Budgeting and Business Management
Designers often manage budgets and oversee project timelines, making financial and organizational skills crucial. Whether working independently or as part of a firm, understanding how to allocate resources efficiently and manage client expectations is key to a smooth and successful project.
Knowledge of Building Codes and Regulations
Interior designers must be familiar with local building codes, accessibility standards and safety regulations. This knowledge ensures their designs are both beautiful as well as safe and legally compliant, particularly in commercial and public spaces where regulations are stricter.
How to Become an Interior Designer
Breaking into the interior design industry requires a blend of formal education, practical experience and professional development. No matter if you’re pursuing a degree straight out of school or considering a career change, there are clear steps you can take to build a strong foundation and establish yourself in the field. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become an interior designer:
Earn a Degree in Interior Design
Most interior design careers begin with a formal education. Earning a bachelor’s degree in interior design from an accredited program provides foundational knowledge in design theory, architectural principles, color theory and drafting. Some institutions also offer associate degrees or certificates, which can serve as stepping stones into the profession.
Gain Hands-On Experience Through Internships
Internships are a valuable opportunity to apply classroom learning in real-world settings. Working under the guidance of experienced designers helps students understand the day-to-day demands of the profession, develop their skills and begin building industry connections.
Develop a Strong Portfolio
A well-curated portfolio is critical for showcasing your design style, creativity and technical capabilities. Include examples of academic projects, internships, freelance work or personal projects that demonstrate your range, vision and design sensibility. This could encompass:
- High-quality photos
- Sketches
- Renderings
- Mood boards
Get Certified and Licensed
Depending on your location, certification and licensure may be required to legally practice interior design. In the United States, passing the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam is the most common requirement. Check your state or country’s regulations to ensure compliance and credibility.
Gain Work Experience in the Field
After completing your education and any required interior design certifications, seek out entry-level positions at design firms, architecture companies or in-house design teams. Real-world experience refines your skills, builds your confidence and prepares you for more complex and independent projects.
Stay Updated on Industry Trends
Interior design is an ever-evolving field influenced by culture, technology and lifestyle trends. Staying current through design publications, trade shows and continuing education courses helps you remain relevant and inspired in your practice.
Consider Specializing in a Niche
Specialization can set you apart in a competitive job market and allow you to tailor your services to a specific clientele or passion. Many interior designers choose to specialize in a particular area such as:
- Residential
- Commercial
- Hospitality
- Healthcare
- Sustainable design
Build a Professional Network
Networking is vital in the design industry. Strong professional relationships often lead to job opportunities, collaborations and referrals. Therefore, make an effort to:
- Attend industry events.
- Join professional organizations like the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) or International Interior Design Association (IIDA).
- Connect with peers, mentors, and potential clients.
Start Your Own Interior Design Business (Optional)
Once you’ve gained sufficient experience and confidence, you may choose to start your own design studio. Running your own business allows you to have creative freedom, manage your client base and shape your brand identity. It also requires strong business skills, from marketing to client management to operations.
Ready to Design Your Future?
When it comes to building your portfolio, there’s no better way to get started than furthering your education through an interior design program. At Park University, our Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design degree covers both theory and practice in depth as you learn to curate spaces that are attractive yet functional. To learn more, request information today!