Article by Rene W
While Interior Design sections in bookstores may hint at a do-it-yourself decorating trend, design schools increasingly meet high demands for professional interior designers. Websites such as Wikipedia and their entries on “interior design” may also be misleading when they say many famous designers and decorators had no formal training. Design schools offering a concentration in interior design play an important role in preparing students for careers that now require a state license to practice as a designer.
In order to have that coveted title of “Interior Designer” on a business card, many U.S. states require designers be “Registered”, “Licensed” or “Certified” to legally practice. This was a legislative measure taken back in the 1970s to protect the rights of professional interior designers and design schools have become an essential in certification. This is testament to the growing importance of the interior design field, where design schools must enable tomorrow’s designers for a highly competitive, yet growing demand for professionalism.
Major corporations, as well as small business in all sectors are looking to the top design schools for professionals they staff. In the changing economy there is also demand for freelance contract based interior designers, who utilize the same design school education and state certification as salary designers. The U.S. Department of Labor states that a degree, even postsecondary education from a design school is necessary for entry-level positions at interior design firms. This is also the case for designers seeking a staff position at organizations and corporations, as well as those pursing freelance certification.
These requirements made of today’s interior designers are a reflection of the specialization and professionalism that has evolved in the field. Design schools cover a broad history of interior design, necessary for being knowledge about a multitude of styles and techniques. Interior designers have to intimately know the differences between Feng Shui and Indian Mughal, Gothic and Art Deco, Minimalist and Mid-Century Modern. While reading extensively may provide a breadth of knowledge in these styles, design school training is key in applying them beyond theory.
There is also overwhelming advancements in technology utilized in the practice of Interior Design. The constantly evolving nature of technology and softwares makes the foundations formed in design school invaluable. Prospective employers and major clients in need of interior design know this, which is why they won’t consider someone without a design school background. There is a large ladder of opportunity to climb with a career in Interior design, but in today’s world that first step can only begin at a top design school.
About the Author
Rene has written many articles about a wide range of topics in art and design. Her expertise ranges from the history of traditional art periods to the latest technologies in graphic and web design. She believes that having a degree from a top art school is essential for a career in the design industry.