Is traditional schooling required to become an interior designer? This is a question I am often asked, and I asked it of my guest as well.
Today, I am answering that question with clarity and inspiration, along with the other frequently asked questions I get from my listeners.
And if you’ve ever pondered the difference between an interior designer and a decorator, I also delve into the nuances that differentiate the two roles. Explore the unique strengths of each role and find out which one aligns with your strengths and ambitions.
Whether you’re fresh out of high school or embarking on a second career and are troubled by questions about the Interior Design Career, this episode is a guide to making informed choices that lead you toward success.
Your dream career is within reach, and it’s time to take the first step.
If you have questions left unanswered, feel free to send them to me, either on Instagram or email me at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode
- Discover how age and life experiences can influence your educational choices in today’s digital age
- Learn the importance of business insurance, even with an LLC, and safeguard your assets as an interior design entrepreneur
- Gain clarity on the roles of an interior designer and a decorator
Check out these episode highlights
01:31 – Question #1
Q: Do you think it is necessary to enroll in a school the traditional way to become an interior designer?
A: No! I don’t think that traditional school is a requirement. It depends on where you are in life. If you are coming straight out of high school, then it could be that a four-year degree or even a two-year degree is the best avenue for you. If you are later in life, it might be your second or third career, or you are taking it from a hobby to be serious about it, then no, I don’t think you need a full four-year traditional degree.
04:26 – Question #2
Q: Do you think it is necessary to have business insurance even if you have an LLC?
A: Yes! You definitely have to have insurance to cover you and secure your personal assets. Always have business insurance for whatever business you are running.
05:45 – Question #3
Q: What kind of reading and writing is required from an entry-level job?
A: A lot of your communication with your team is critical. You’re going to read and write emails to your team, vendors, and contractors. A junior designer often will have some communication with every part of the project. So hone your reading and writing skills, as those are very important.
07:27 – Question #4
Q: What flexible program would you recommend to kick-start an interior design career?
A: A community college is an excellent way to get an interior design degree or certificate because they offer evening classes. Community colleges are also a good option since they don’t cost too much and can be stretched over several years.
08:38 – Question #5
Q: What kind of presentations or visuals can a designer be expected to show clients at a project presentation?
A: You need to have a layout of the materials that you are using. The client needs to be able to touch and feel the actual samples of what it is that you’re proposing because it’s not shown locally.
10:59: – Question #6
Q: What is the difference between interior designers and decorators? Which one should I call myself?
A: Interior designers can often be interchanged with interior architects because we are focused very much on creating functional spaces within the building. It is much more involved than decorating or making something aesthetically pleasing.
“Interior designers may decorate, but decorators do not design.”
“It is way more detailed and involved to be a designer than a decorator.”
Next Steps
Take the QUIZ!! Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYou with Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at [email protected] if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Related Episode
Thanks for listening. I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week…