What is Interior Design?
Interior design is all about making a space look nice and function properly for the people who use it. It’s a blended field of creative energy mixed with practical, technical skills, where designers consider everything from layout and furniture to the lighting and the color scheme. All in all, an interior design professional acquires the materials needed to make a space pop, focuses on how all the elements come together, and determines what is needed for the environment to feel right for any of the activities occurring there.
At its core, interior design is about improving the way a space is experienced, whether you’re living or working there. It’s more than picking out pretty throw pillows and choosing a nice light fixture -- it’s about making sure those things fit well, feel comfortable, and work for everyday life. Interior Designers have to consider accessibility, comfort, and sustainability, so they inevitably become well-versed in balancing creative endeavors with practical solutions. It’s an exciting field that gives its professionals versatility and new opportunities, especially as interior design continues to grow and evolve.
Why Learn Interior Design
Learning interior design helps you understand how spaces impact the overall mood and well-being of those who inhabit that space. By learning how to create environments that feel good to be in, you’ll acquire skills that can help in myriad situations. You’ll explore the basics of design, like color, layout, and materials, but these are transferable skills that may make learning other subjects, such as graphic design, even easier. You’ll be able to transform a room or space from dull to vibrant and give it a cozy, welcoming feel or design an office building to look sleek and stylish. No matter how you use your interior design skills, you can apply them in different ways.
Learn Interior Design
- Nationally accredited
- Create your own portfolio
- Free student software
- Learn at your convenience
- Authorized Autodesk training center
On a professional level, interior design training is a fantastic way to find a career that gives you technical skills but also one that values creative expression. On a professional level, interior design opens all kinds of opportunities, whether you want to design homes, offices, restaurants, or even medical centers. There is always a demand for skilled designers who can make spaces functional yet aesthetically pleasing. Learning interior design can lead to jobs at design or architecture firms, or even offer you a chance to start your own business. These roles often involve working with professionals in related fields, such as Architects, Engineers, and Contractors.
Even if you don’t see yourself venturing into the interior design field, you can still do a lot with your training. Interior design skills help you create a space that fits your style and works for how you live. You can organize and decorate your home in a way that makes you feel comfortable and productive without sacrificing personal style. Once you have enough practice at home, you could start helping friends and family with their spaces or even plan for special events like parties and weddings. You could also start a blog or social media account dedicated to your interior design projects. Whether you’re learning interior design for personal projects or to achieve certain career goals, interior design gives you the tools to shape the space around you.
Industries That Make Use of Interior Design
Hospitality
The hospitality industry relies on interior design expertise to create spaces that make guests or clients feel comfortable, welcomed, and impressed. An Interior Designer will set the tone for the brand and establish a space with a matching ambiance. Whether it’s a luxury hotel or a quaint boutique, an Interior Designer will plan the space to suit the user’s needs. A good design will be visually stunning, sustainable, and functional, all while reflecting the overall vibe that the company is trying to build.
Interior Designers who work in the hospitality industry may complete several different projects, all requiring their own unique approach. Take hotels -- there are so many spaces to consider, so it’s essential to hire someone with strong design skills. An Interior Designer working on a hotel project strives to make spaces relaxing and functional. For instance, the lobby should be inviting and well-organized to keep the flow of foot traffic moving smoothly whereas the rooms should be comfortable and stylish. On the other hand, the bars and dining spaces should provide an intimate feel and have furniture to reflect the mood. For spaces like spas or wellness centers, an Interior Designer would aim for a calm vibe, perhaps using softer lighting, soothing materials, and minimalist design to help guests relax.
Real Estate
In the real estate industry, Interior Designers help draw in potential buyers, renters, and investors by designing the space. Whether they work on a commercial or residential property, Interior Designers make the space feel welcoming, create a strong first impression, and show the space’s maximum potential. They appeal to a specific target audience who would suit the space and stage the space to fit that group. Plus, they may implement projects that will influence the property’s market value, like renovating the kitchen or bathroom.
One of the most common design projects in real estate is staging a home for sale. An Interior designer will arrange furniture and decor to show the home’s best features. The staging is often done with the intent to make the potential buyer already feel at home -- this includes adding art and decor to make the space feel more comfortable and well-maintained. Some Interior Designers may work with luxury homes which often requires paying attention to the finest details from statement lighting and custom cabinetry to other high-end finishes.
Retail
Interior design plays a huge role in the retail industry and is one of the main factors that shape the customer’s experience. The right design can influence everything from how long a customer spends in the store, how willing they are to try on clothes for purchase, or how likely they are to purchase a product. Essentially, interior design is all about making the space more inviting but also engaging. If the consumer feels welcome and drawn towards certain areas of the space, they will likely be more willing to interact with the product and possibly make a purchase.
Retail spaces both big and small need interior design professionals to maximize the space’s potential. For instance, smaller stores like boutiques need a charming, intimate feel that stimulates a more personalized shopping experience. On the other hand, department stores must be functional to accommodate the sheer number of retailers but still afford the shopper a pleasing experience. Even grocery stores have specific interior design techniques, such as placing the focus on product visibility and the natural flow of how a shopper moves from the produce aisle to the deli or from the dairy to the frozen section.
Healthcare
Among some of the most specialized spaces to design are healthcare facilities and centers. Healthcare companies hire interior design experts to make sure the space is practical, accessible, functional, and up to code. Equally as important, Interior Designers working in the healthcare industry ensure spaces look nice and inviting so patients feel less anxious and more welcomed into the area. Overall, Interior Designers support both the patients and the healthcare workers to make sure everyone can do their job and get the care they need.
Designing hospitals is a huge task that involves patient rooms, waiting areas, operating rooms, bathrooms, cafeterias, and other spaces. Each space must provide the same relaxed feel while serving its intended purpose. For example, patient rooms must offer privacy and relaxation. Common areas such as lobbies or waiting areas should have soothing colors, effective layouts, and adjustable lighting. Other areas of the hospital, such as emergency rooms, need extra attention and consideration. The emergency room is a high-stress environment and must have adequate design to give patients peace of mind while still giving workers access to medical equipment and healthcare support.
Entertainment
In the entertainment industry, it’s all about creating an atmosphere that fits the intended purpose -- whether it’s a movie theatre, a concert venue, a theme park, or an interactive gaming center, Interior Designers offer entertainment enthusiasts of all kinds a space to enjoy their experiences even more. An Interior Designer will develop a theme that aligns with the purpose of the space and design a functional layout to suit the need. Moreover, they’ll factor in technological integration, such as sound systems or screens, to ensure they provide a balance between tech and aesthetics. Through effective interior design, the experience is even more entertaining and enjoyable.
For example, a concert venue may hire Interior Designers to design their space to cater to both the performers and the audience members. This requires designing a space with great acoustics, creating a seating arrangement that’s fair and functional, and providing separate areas like lobbies, bars, lounges, and VIP areas to fit with the overall vibe and offer additional comforts and amenities to guests.
Common Interior Design Job Titles
Interior Designer
Interior Designers are responsible for creating spaces that are nice to look at but also work as intended, whether that’s a residential home, a sprawling office, an eclectic retail space, or a sleek stylish hospital. Specifically, Interior Designers start by handling client consultant meetings and developing concept boards based on the client's requests. They will plan the space, choose materials, and select finishing touches before using 3D modeling and CAD software to produce floor plans and design ideas. They’re adept at managing budgets, handling materials, and coordinating projects. Plus, a good Interior Designer is often a people-person, able to communicate with colleagues and clients alike.
Indeed shares that Interior Designers across the United States earn an average salary of close to $69,000 per year. This varies, of course, based on factors like location and expertise. For instance, Interior Designers earn nearly $83,000 in Philadelphia whereas those in Miami earn an average closer to $67,000. Likewise, entry-level Interior Designers may start out earning closer to $56,000 but can easily work their way up the ranks.
Design Director
A Design Director has an interesting role in which they oversee and lead the creative direction of a particular project, including those related to interior design. They manage the artistic vision and strategic execution of design work. They are natural leaders, adept at handling client relations, and maintain the overall quality and consistency of the design across the whole project. They set up the aesthetic plans, delegate tasks, handle the nit-picky details, and follow up on budgeting concerns. They are also great collaborators and are often incredibly up-to-date on the latest design trends.
The average base salary for a Design Director in the United States is slightly over $148,000, according to Indeed. There’s a lot of wiggle room with these expectations, however; for instance, the low-end salary is closer to $90,000. Plus, based on several factors, the expectations may be higher or lower. Design Directors in Austin, Texas may earn closer to $228,000 on average whereas the average salary for those in Chicago is closer to $145,000. Similarly, it depends on the size of the company and which industry the company is involved with.
Project Manager
Proper training and experience could also lead to a role in project management. A Project Manager in the interior design world is responsible for overseeing the lifecycle of a project, from the initial stages to finalization. Essentially, they serve as the bridge between clients, designers, contractors, suppliers, and anyone else involved in the project to ensure things stay on track, within budget, and up to the client’s standards while maintaining other codes and regulations. They plan the project, set goals, and organize workflows. They’ll delegate tasks and maintain the budget all while coordinating between different groups. Moreover, a Project Manager assesses risks and oversees quality control. They are a jack-of-all-trades type of employee and therefore incredibly necessary to any project.
Project Managers in the United States earn closer to $91,000, per Indeed. Of course, this will vary heavily based on experience. Entry-level Project Managers earn closer to $63,000 starting but can work their way up to an associate position earning closer to $71,000. Senior project management positions are anywhere from $109,000 to $134,000 on average, ultimately showing how much room for advancement and financial gain there truly is in this position. Not to mention, it’s all about location -- for instance, NYC-based Project Managers earn nearly ten thousand dollars more than the national average.
CAD Designer
CAD Designers also have experience with interior design and vice-versa. In this position, you’d be tasked with creating technical drawings, layouts, and visual mock-ups of interior spaces using computer-aided software, otherwise known as CAD. Specifically, you may use AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit, which are relatively popular in interior design. CAD Designers translate ideas from Interior Designers and Architects and create the plans for the project so that construction and installation can go smoothly. Their role is essential in providing a safe, well-designed space.
CAD Designers earn roughly $69,000 a year, according to Indeed. However, take into consideration where you live. Some cities have higher reported averages, such as Houston, where the average is closer to $82,000. Compared to Dallas, which has an average closer to $70,000, this is a considerable difference. Additionally, there’s plenty of room for growth in this role, as senior-level positions can average closer to $85,000.
Architect
With ample and relevant training, an interior design student could become an Architect. These professionals design the structure and the interior of the building so that the architectural integrity is sound but still functional and aesthetically pleasing. They work on all kinds of buildings, from residential homes to commercial buildings. An Architect primarily focuses on the structure itself, ensuring everything is up to code, follows regulations, and will remain a safe structure for years to come. They will draw technical drawings and plan the design and construction process from start to finish. In addition, they often collaborate with other high-ranking individuals such as Project Managers, Interior Designers, and Engineers to facilitate the project.
Indeed shares the average salary for an Architect in the U.S. is a little over $108,000. It’s all about location, however; for instance, Austin, Washington, D.C., and San Francisco are among the highest-paying cities for an Architect to live in, with salaries ranging from $125,000 to $156,000. Moreover, Junior Architects have very different salary expectations than those with more experience. An entry-level Architect earns closer to $66,000 whereas a Chief Architect earns an average of $225,000.
How to Learn Interior Design
Learning interior design can take form in several ways. You could opt for in-person programs, which offer the traditional experience with instructors, fellow students, and face-to-face lectures. You’ll complete hands-on projects and gain practical experience to build a portfolio. Many in-person courses are part of a larger program, which can get relatively expensive, especially if you consider university degrees. If this is feasible and seems like a good option for you, in-person learning is a great path to take.
However, many people prefer alternative techniques for learning, such as online methods. Live online classes, for instance, mirror an in-person class but from the comfort of your home. You’ll attend live sessions where an instructor will guide you through the material and answer any questions you have. Plus, you get to connect with other students, share ideas, and collaborate on projects, which can enhance your learning experience considerably. It’s perfect for people who want a structured class with set times but still need the flexibility of online learning.
If you’re the type of person who likes to set your own schedule and take your learning into your own hands, self-paced classes are a great option. You can go through the material at a pace that makes sense for your daily life and revisit the material as many times as you need to feel comfortable. Since you aren’t tied to a classroom, you can study anywhere and balance other commitments while furthering your skills. You can study during your lunch break at work, in the morning before dropping the kids off for school, or over the weekends -- it’s all up to you. Luckily, you still have access to discussion forums where you can interact with other students and ask the instructor questions. It’s a good option if you need or prefer a flexible way to learn but also like having a little accountability.
On-demand classes are another option that takes flexible learning to the next level. It’s a completely hands-off method where you learn where you want and when you want. There’s no set pace, but instead, you can go through the material as slowly or as quickly as needed. This means you can go back to lessons whenever you need, which is perfect for someone who needs extra time or needs to move around a busy schedule. If you don’t mind learning completely solo and doing your own research to answer questions or get clarification on difficult concepts, then this could be a good fit.
Learn Interior Design With Self-Paced VDCI Courses
VDCI offers numerous courses that can get you started on your interior design journey. In the 140-hour Interior Design Course Bundle, you’ll gain a foundation of interior design skills and learn how to create precise floor plans and technical drawings with AutoCAD and also develop 3D models and accurate renderings with SketchUp Pro. In addition, you’ll learn how to use Photoshop for concept boards and other image-enhancement needs. For instance, you’ll practice adjusting, enhancing, supplementing, and composing files for marketing purposes. By completing various hands-on projects, you’ll understand how to use several essential software, understand construction documents, and understand essential interior design concepts like spatial arrangement and visualization. In addition to the one-on-one bonus training and access to an expert instructor, you’ll receive software access during your time in the class. Upon completion of the course, you’ll earn a verified digital certificate.
If you want to turn it up a notch, the 470-hour Interior Design Professional Course Bundle is the perfect way to master interior design for both residential and commercial spaces. Through various projects and quizzes, you’ll understand how to read construction documents and blueprints. In addition, you’ll study CAD detailing standards, like making detailed drawings from scratch and referencing and clipping information from other drawings. You’ll learn to design detailed, precise floor plans, 3D models, and polished presentations using industry-standard software like AutoCAD, Revit Architecture, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite applications like Photoshop and Illustrator. You’ll also receive additional training, instructor help, software access, and a verified digital certificate of completion.
To master SketchUp, consider the 60-hour SketchUp Pro Fundamentals Course Bundle. Here, you’ll learn to design 3D models, determine the most efficient way of accurately and productively using SketchUp, and explore all their tools. Specifically, you’ll learn how to use the various tools to get the most out of the software functionality to design all kinds of 3D models. In addition, you’ll learn to create and edit new materials and photo textures to SketchUp models from Google Earth. Through various projects, you’ll learn to generate scene settings, create typography, and export images and animations. You’ll have access to discussion forums, hands-on quizzes, and mini-projects and be able to add to your portfolio.
In the AutoCAD Certification Training Bundle, you’ll create a detailed floor and roof plan. In addition, you will learn to create sets of construction documents, foundation plans, and electrical plans for small residential projects. With AutoCAD, you’ll develop title block drawings from scratch and create building elevations as well as apply advanced skills for sheet layout environments and plotting. You’ll also learn how to manage and organize files and deliverable sheets to ensure they align with National CAD Standards. This 140-hour course comes with access to an instructor, additional training, software, and additional mentoring.