So You Want To Be An Interior Designer?

by A Guest Author

To become an interior designer you need to be a people person! One of the most important aspects of the job, before you have even put pen to paper or collected swatches and samples, is communication. You need the ability of really listening to your client, understanding what they like and dislike and putting forward your design ideas clearly with enthusiasm, confidence and charm. You will be required to convey your design ideas to contractors and suppliers clearly and with authority. You need to have the creative vision to imagine the end result and be highly organised in your project planning, multi-tasking and time management so you can meet work deadlines and avoid delays.

Interior designers may be self-employed, work within a team for a design firm or have their own shop premises.  Interior designers are not only required for private clients, many businesses, hospitals and government buildings use their design services to create areas which are functional, ergonomic, stylish and pleasant to work in.

Interior designers are often utilised by estate agents, property developers, hotels, restaurants and shops, the opportunities for design are endless and project size can range from designing a room in a residential house to shop refurbishment for a chain of high street stores.

The Project Stages

As an interior designer you would typically start a new project with a client consultation where needs, desires and ideas are discussed. The budget confines and timescales for various stages should be decided at this point and monitored throughout the project.

Next, you would do some research into initial ideas and examine any restriction on plans, such as regulations and planning considerations. You may start to collect together sketches of your ideas and choose samples of fabrics, wall coverings and fixtures to present to your client.

Once you have the client's agreement to your design plans you will need to carefully choose your team of contractors and suppliers, bearing in mind the scale of the task and your budget.

You will gradually build up a list of contractors you have used who you know you can work with and are reliable.

You will be responsible throughout the duration of the project for pulling all aspects of the design work together; making sure budgets are adhered to, supervising the work of contractors and making sure suppliers deliver on time.

Finally, you will need to carry out a thorough inspection of the work and handover to the client, following up on any design or fault issues with swift resolution.

About The Author:

Marianne Carr became an interior designer after studying at college, here she writes for Kia Designs Ltd

This post was written by A Guest Author

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