Interior design is an art and science of improving the interior of a structure to make it aesthetically pleasing and a healthier environment for those using the room. An interior designer is a person who plans, coordinates, and oversees these improvement projects. These projects may include building renovations, adding new rooms to an existing building, furniture selection, and color scheme changes. It requires expertise in the science and history of interior design. A degree or diploma in interior design is required in some states and degrees can be obtained at any art college or university. Interior designers can specialize by focusing on one field, such as lighting or space planning, or they may work for a firm that specializes in just one area, such as designing bathrooms or kitchens.
Interior designers must first receive formal training, which can be through a bachelor’s degree or other form of degree program. After receiving formal training, they must also pass an examination administered by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) to prove they are indeed competent in the field. They must also complete a certification course that demonstrates their ability in science degree programs such as architecture, drafting, painting, and interior design. Many interior designer employers require formal training or licensing before they can apply for employment.
Interior design firms employ architects, and designers can work for construction or building surveyors, painters, and decorators. Interior design firms are usually independent contractors, working under a general contractor or designer. Some construction project managers prefer to hire interior designers to oversee their projects, especially if they lack the necessary knowledge or expertise in engineering, construction, and building science degree. Interior designer job description typically includes designing floor plans, architectural drawings, sketches of features, and final plans. They are sometimes asked to implement these plans in the real world through computer-assisted design and computer-aided drafting (CAD).
