5 Things to Know Before Going to School for Interior Design
Becoming an interior designer can open up a world of career possibilities. Not only will you be able to create stunning looks and practical environments, but you’ll be improving the lives of everyone who lives around your work. Designers can also make a lot of money in their careers, which is why so many have chosen to enter the field. However, before you sign up for classes just yet, be aware of certain things that every designer should know before going to school for Interior Design.
There’s a Clear Difference Between a Designer and a Decorator
There is one clear difference between an interior designer and a decorator and that is the education that’s involved. Essentially, any person who wants to start working as one can become a decorator. There is no skill or degree required in order to secure work from clients. On the other hand, a designer needs an accredited education and degree in order to enter the field. This is also why design professionals make more money than everyday home decorators.
You Need an Eye for Beauty
You need to know what patterns and colors blend with different textures. After all, people are using your services because you’ll actually be able to help them. Sure, it’s great to have your own niche tastes, but you need to be broad enough to accommodate virtually every client coming to you for work. This helps when it comes to word-of-mouth, too, since your customers will tell their friends and relatives about your services if they are happy with them.
Be Prepared to Receive an Education
Something you should know before going to school for Interior Design is that Education is key when becoming an interior designer. You need to receive either an Associate’s or a Bachelor’s degree in a variety of different classes. These classes include photography, CAD, drawing and business. The goal is to prepare you fully for a career in the industry. If you’re having a hard time paying for college, there are a variety of student loans available to you. These loans help to pay for your tuition and textbook fees, and most debts won’t need to be paid back until you graduate.
You’ll Be Working with a Lot of People
When most people think of becoming an interior designer, they immediately picture working on their own to collaborate a finished look for a room, outdoor area or an entire home. However, you truly need to be a people person in order to work well in the field. Your clients will probably be quite picky, so you need to listen to their needs before working on any project. You’ll have to collaborate closely with your clientele in a way that is professional and personable.
You’ll Have a Lot of Competition
You shouldn’t expect to go to school and become a millionaire designer in just a few months. After graduating from college, you’ll be faced with a sea of competition. The key is to make your way up and over the current so that you can stand out from the crowd. This is done by networking with other professionals, creating a brand or working for other companies to grow your skills. It may take years before you’re fully able to relax in your career.