A career in interior design can be a rewarding and creative pursuit. Interior designers bring beauty, functionality, and comfort to spaces, with the job of curating every aspect of a room’s aesthetic, including furniture, textiles, wall coverings, accessories, lighting fixtures, and more. Thus, it’s not the easiest industry to excel in, and there are a few things you should know before embarking on your interior design journey.
Long Hours
Interior design is a field that sometimes requires long hours and dedication as designers may be on call at all times, responding quickly to client requests or issues. As such, you’ll need to set aside plenty of time and energy to devote to your job. You should even be prepared for weekend jobs.
Think about it like this: if a client has requested a redecoration of their living room, to be ready for the housewarming party they’re hosting in two weeks, you’ll have to work tirelessly to get the job done on time. Or if a business in, say, Cambridge, needs a new office layout and office cleaning Cambridge services to accommodate more employees before a grand opening, you’ll have to work quickly and efficiently to make sure the workspace is up to par and spotlessly clean.
Knowledge of Building Codes and Regulations
To execute a successful interior design project, it’s very useful to have a working understanding of building codes and regulations as you may need to interpret blueprints, understand fire safety protocols, adhere to disability access laws, and even comply with historic preservation guidelines.
For example, in certain states, bathroom designs must adhere to plumbing codes that dictate the number and size of fixtures allowed. Glass Shower Direct is the top shower door glass supplier interior designers trust. Designers must also consider safety regulations around outlet placement and window treatments that need folding arm awnings for a safety guard against direct sunlight, as well as ventilation guidelines for kitchens.
Understanding of Materials and Finishes
Interior designers must have deep knowledge of the materials and finishes available to them. They need to understand which ones are best suited for certain situations. For instance, if there is a room with high humidity levels, they should be able to choose materials that can withstand those conditions without deteriorating quickly. Likewise, if a room requires a certain aesthetic, they should be able to put together the right combination of hybrid flooring and finishes to achieve their desired look.
Say a client wants a modern and elegant balcony design, not only for the balcony but also for the addition of mezzanine floors, all while requiring low maintenance. In this case, a competent designer might suggest using materials like aluminum or corrosion-resistant metals for the railing, as well as composite wood decking that won’t need to be treated yearly.
Interior Design Software Skills
In today’s digital age, designers want to be proficient in the use of computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D modeling software. This allows them to create detailed plans, renderings, and visuals that can help them communicate their vision clearly with clients. Many designers also take advantage of virtual reality capabilities in these programs to give clients an immersive preview of what the completed project will look like.
It’s also important for designers to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and digital trends so they can offer services that are more efficient than ever before. This includes having a good understanding of how to use social media platforms, such as Instagram and Pinterest, to advertise their business and promote their designs.
Being an interior designer requires more than just design skills. You also need to have a good understanding of things like building codes and regulations, current trends in the industry, materials and finishes, and software capabilities. With all these qualities combined, you’re more likely to find success in creating beautiful spaces.
