There are many ways to increase your earning potential as an interior designer. Most jobs in this profession require a bachelor’s degree, but you can earn a higher salary by completing a master’s degree in interior design from an accredited university and earning your interior design certification. You can also increase your earning potential by getting specialized certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), kitchen and bath, environmental design, and industrial or organizational design. As you gain experience and build a reputation in the field, you can expect to earn.
Salaries for interior designers vary by state for a variety of reasons. The cost of living, average wealth, and demand for interior design services are all factors that contribute to salaries. States with a higher standard of living will often have higher salaries in most industries, including interior design. Additionally, interior designers might earn more money when working with historical renovation societies and museums.
Here’s what you need to do to become an interior designer:
Earn a bachelor’s degree. To become an interior designer, you will need a bachelor’s degree. While you don’t need to major in interior design, you should take computer-aided design, design, and drawing classes to have a strong foundation for your future career.
Secure an internship with an architecture firm or interior design studio to learn your skills to build a successful portfolio. You can find recommendations from your university or search for opportunities online.
Complete your interior design certification to demonstrate your practical experience and academic knowledge as a qualified interior designer. Consider earning specialist certifications in environmental design, LEED and renovations to show that you are an expert in these fields.
Maintain a portfolio of your designs to show your abilities and success to potential clients and employers.
How are interior designers typically paid?
The pay schedule for interior designers can vary based on their place of work. Some interior designers are paid an annual salary, while others may be paid per job. In either case, they will likely provide an invoice to their client which outlines the fees they are charging and the cost of supplies and any other applicable expenses.
What is the standard work environment for interior designers?
Interior designers can be found in a variety of settings. Part of their time is typically spent meeting with clients, vendors, and contractors to stay organized. They also spend a lot of time working at a computer, building models. They may have to travel to make sure everything is going according to plan.
What skills do interior designers need?
Interior designers must be creative and have excellent spatial reasoning. They need to be highly organized, as they are expected to manage the schedules and budgets for their projects. They must be able to work independently and in a team. They need to communicate both verbally and in writing to convey their goals to their clients and vendors. Interior designers must also be able to use computer-aided design (CAD) and other design software to create precise drafts for their projects.
Do interior designers need a certificate?
Interior designers don’t need a certification to work in most states. However, having a certification can lead to increased salary potential. Certifications demonstrate that you have knowledge in interior design and a specialization in the field.