What's the role of an interior designer?

I'm really interested in design and aesthetics, and I heard that interior design could be a good career. Can anyone explain what interior designers do on a daily basis and what kind of education I might need to become one?

Interior designers play a crucial role in enhancing the appearance and functionality of interior spaces. They use their knowledge of color, lighting, materials, and furniture to develop aesthetically pleasing and practical environments. On a daily basis, their tasks may include meeting with clients to understand their needs and preferences, developing design concepts, creating sketches or digital design layouts, selecting materials and furnishings, and overseeing the installation process.

Education requirements can vary, but commonly, prospective interior designers start by earning a bachelor's degree in interior design. Coursework often includes drawing, computer-aided design (CAD), color theory, design principles, and architecture. Some schools even offer programs that concentrate on certain aspects of interior design, such as sustainable design or commercial interiors.

In many states in the U.S., interior designers must be licensed, which typically requires passing the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam. To qualify for this exam, you generally need to have a combination of a bachelor's degree and two years of work experience in interior design.

Remember, practical experience is also essential in this field. Internships, work-study, and entry-level design positions can help you gain the hands-on skills necessary to excel in this career. In addition, cultivating a portfolio of work that showcases your design talents will be crucial when applying for jobs or freelance assignments.

It's important to note that interior design requires a mix of creative and technical skills, as well as an understanding of building codes and regulations, safety standards, and accessibility. Patience, communication skills, and flexibility are also key qualities for an interior designer, as you'll be interacting with a variety of clients, contractors, and vendors, and each project will come with its own set of challenges and revisions.