What is interior design about?
Interior design is about drawing together physical features, functions, décor, lighting, and furnishings of an interior to produce a harmonious environment that is pleasant to work in and easy to use. "Form and function" is the most important tenet of interior design. For example, a kitchen would be unhygienic and difficult to clean if draped in velvet and the flooring was covered in thick fur rugs. It would be much better to arrange a central work area with ease of access between fridge, sink, and oven with easy-clean surfaces and stain-resistant hard flooring. Each interior has a purpose (sometimes more than one), so it is important that the living space is dressed in such a way as to enhance its aesthetic appeal as well as providing a functional living or working area.
What interior design programs are available?
There are several different varieties of interior design. Industrial interior design looks at factory and shop floors and decides how work space can be utilized most efficiently. Shop fitting is another important interior design application where a store is set up to entice shoppers into a store, encourages them to browse, and influences them to spend their money. Programs vary and include certificates and associate and bachelor degrees in interior design. Twenty four states require licensure for interior designers that involves an apprenticeship lasting between one and three years followed by an exam.
What subjects do I need to study In school?
Design subjects are obviously a good choice, and art or technical drawing might be useful. Most interior designers now use computer software to help create images and plan projects, so computer literacy is advantageous as is experience with CAD (computer assisted design.)
What will I learn?
Typical courses might include: IT, CAD, project management, still photography, contextual studies, building regulations, planning, specification design, and video. You may also study 3-D modeling, textiles science and materials science. Most interior design programs help you create a portfolio that you can use to get your career started.
What type of entry level jobs are available?
You could either choose to work as a junior designer within an established agency, or, if you enjoy challenge and variety, you could set up as a freelance interior designer. You may be interested in specializing in retail, public spaces, domestic, industrial, leisure environments, contract interiors, or workplaces.
Where can I get more information on interior design?
Take a look at some of the colleges offering interior design programs on this Web site to start your interior design career today.
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