Is it Worth Attending a School for Interior Design?

Guest Blogger #362, Entry #945, February 7, 2012

In a word: yes. Although there are a few lucky go-getters that manage to land themselves a position on the bottom rung of a design firm with no experience or schooling and then work their way up, learning everything they can in order to one day become successful designers in their own right and potentially start their own businesses, these cases are few and far between. It’s simply not enough to have an artistic sensibility or a flair for trends in home design. There’s a lot more that goes into creating modern interior spaces, not to mention making a living at it. And only through schooling can you get the tools you need to become a prosperous interior designer, especially considering how competitive the field is these days. So here are just a few good reasons to get your applications in so you can get started down the path to designing functional and beautiful interior spaces.

Is it worth attending interior design school?

Image via: Houzz

1.     Art and technology

Interior design is a special type of industry because it requires a comprehensive skillset that includes a background in both creative and technical pursuits. Since most people tend to lean towards one or the other, it behooves those interested in entering the field to gain knowledge of both before they attempt to land an interior design job. Plus, attending college will help you to become familiar with the software that is specific to the industry and how advances in technology can enhance the work of an interior designer.

2.     Networking

In every industry there is a certain amount of hand-shaking that goes on, and the more people you know, the better chance you have of finding a job when you need one (or finding the right person to fill a position at your own firm – it goes both ways). College provides for an excellent opportunity to connect with other students (think of them as future colleagues), professors, and even industry insiders that could potentially help you out down the road.

3.     Internships

Many firms only offer internships to college students (they get free work, you get class credit and some experience for your résumé). So if you want to take advantage of these opportunities to get a foot in the door and potentially turn a semester of work into a job after graduation, it’s a good idea to attend school and seek out internships along the way.

Creating your own interior design business maybe closer than you thought.

Image via: House of Turquoise

4.     Foot in the door

When you’re up against a lot of other applicants, a degree in your chosen field could make the difference between getting called back for an interview (giving you the chance to impress in person) and having your résumé end up in the discard pile without so much as a second glance.

5.     Business.

If you harbor dreams of one day operating your own design firm you’re going to need at least a rudimentary knowledge of how to create a business plan, gain capital and manage financing, and run a successful business. You will also need to master strategic management principles in order to ensure that your business runs smoothly and efficiently. This may not be necessary if your only aspiration is to work for a design firm for the rest of your life, but even if you hope to move up to the level of a partner in the firm, a background in business will help.

For more home design ideas on Stagetecture, click here.