Information on Becoming an Interior Decorator
Someone with a large imagination, a keen sense of style and an interest in artistic design will likely enjoy a career as an interior designer. Interior designers get to work in a variety of different situations, make frequent short trips and meet many different people throughout the course of their careers. Having a career as an interior designer takes a formal education, on the job training and a variety of skills.
Other People Are Reading
-
Daily Work Life
-
Interior designers can work independently, as an assistant to another designer or in a home improvement or home furnishings store. Designers who work independently or with another designer often work in a client's home or place of business. They will also spend several hours working in an office setting creating design plans, and may frequently travel to home furnishings and decor stores. Designers working in a home improvement or home furnishings store will also work in sales and direct clients on what to purchase.
Education
-
Designers who wish to work as an apprentice or in a store setting need a two-year associate's degree from an accredited institution. Designers who wish to work independently or for a larger design firm will often need a four-year bachelor's degree. Designers can obtain a degree in interior design from any professional design school or university. After graduation, they can enter into an apprenticeship to gain experience. Typical apprenticeship programs last one to three years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
-
License Requirements
-
Many states require that an interior designer maintain a certificate, license or registration in their state. To qualify, a designer will need to pass an exam issued by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification, and may need to complete ongoing coursework in their field. In order to take the exam, designers will need at least two years in postsecondary education and a combined total of six years work and education experience, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Skills
-
Interior designers need to have an eye for design, including having some artistic ability, the ability to creatively visualize a space and a sense of style. Designers will need to keep apprised of changes in the interior decorating world, including trendy color schemes, furniture designs and styles. Designers must have an ability to work well with customers. Designers should also understand how to work with computer-aided design software and have a basic knowledge of architecture.
-
