Interior Designer

In this career guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about  interior designing as a career, from roles and responsibilities, to work environment and roadmap to becoming an  Interior Designer.

Who's an Interior Designer?

Have you ever visited a restaurant or a hotel and marvelled at how beautifully it was designed? Do you often find yourself making little or big changes to your home to make it better? Would you like to help others too designs homes and spaces that are beautiful and functional? If yes, interior designing is the field for you!

As an interior designer, you would create functional, safe, and beautiful spaces. You would work on designing both indoor and outdoor spaces, ranging from hotel lobbies, mansions, stores, etc. Over and above ensuring that you design beautiful spaces, you must research, plan and ensure that the place is designed with the right colours, furniture, fabrics and other decorative materials depending on your client’s needs.

Responsibilities

What will you do?

1. Understanding client’s needs.

As the designer, you will have to work with clients to understand what exactly they want from you and what purpose they want the space to serve.

Example: If you client wants a living room designed, you need to understand if they want a relaxed, family room or a formal room reserved for guests. You need to know exactly what the client expects you to do.

 

2. Using the space optimally.

You need to help your clients see how better they can use the space they have to ensure that the space is being used to the best of it’s potential.

Example: If you’re designing a living room, and you notice some space that could be converted into a reading spot or a bar, you must talk to your client about it and then help them visualise it.

3. Creating a rough plan.

Your client’s will have multiple design ideas in their heads that they might have collected from magazines, homes they have visited, etc. It’s your job to put it all together. This would also involve helping them see what can and cannot be done.

Example: If your client wanted a bar in their living room, but it is not feasible in the space they have, creating a rough plan will help them see that.

 

4. Creating a final plan.

Once all of the details have been discussed and finalised, you need to start creating a design plan. This would involve sketching out your ideas and the use of design software to create mock build-ups, and making a list of all the material you will need.

Example: Most designers create a miniature mock space so they and the client can see what exactly the space will look like once it has been designed.

5. Creating a timeline and budget estimate.

Once the project details have been finalised, you need to come up with a budget estimate and tell your client how long it will take for the project to be completed.

Example: If you’re working on one room, keeping in mind all of the material you will need, labour charges, your consultancy charges, you will create a budget for the plan and assign a time period for its completion.

6. Coordinating with vendors, suppliers, workers and others.

While you will be working on the design and the artistic part of the project, there will be several other people whom you will have to work with to complete the project. You will need to stay in touch with these people to ensure the job is done smoothly and as per your instructions.

Example: You can have a regular vendor or supplier whom you trust for fabrics and other material to ensure that there are no last-minute mishaps.

 

7. Research on materials and finishes.

Interior designing is not just about designing a space but also developing it into an appealing space. For this, you need to use the right mix of materials that makes the space stand out.

Example: Right from the colour and the fabric of the furniture, to the artwork, flooring, etc., you need to make sure that you’re well aware of all the options available in the market so you can incorporate them into your plans.

Take the Mentoria career assessment test, to find out how well-suited you are as an Interior Designer.

Workplace

Where will you work?

Consultancies

Most interior designers work from an office. You would be coordinating with a lot of people and would also have to visit the sites you’re working on, so your work timings would vary. 

Architectural Firms

You could also work as a consultant with architects.  Most architects look for designers who specialise in specific areas such as lobbies, kitchens, closets, bathrooms, etc.

Home

Some interior designers also work as independent consultants assisting clients to design beautiful spaces (homes in most cases). Here, you would meet clients, understand their requirements, and provide samples of flooring, wallpaper, window coverings, lighting, etc. 

Education

How do you get there?

STEP 1: Class XI-XII/Junior College

If you’re interested in subjects like sociology and psychology, opt for arts in junior college.

STEP 2: Entrance Exam

One of the most common design entrance exams is the All India Entrance Examination for Design (AIEED). Most design institutions like Pearl Academy and JD Institute of Fashion Technology accept scores from the AIEED. The eligibility for this exam is at least 50% marks in Class 12.

Some colleges also hold their own entrance exam like the National Institute of Design (NID). Their entrance exam is divided into NID Prelims and NID Mains. The Prelims are a written test – you need to clear these to move on to the Mains which includes a studio-test and interview round. You need to have passed Class 12 in any stream to appear for this exam.

STEP 3: Graduation

Pursue a Bachelor of Design in Interior Design from colleges like National Institute of Design, School of Interior Design, Ahmedabad, etc.  This course generally lasts for 4-5 years depending on the university you opt for.

Alternatively, you can also pursue a three-year Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design from colleges like Pearl Academy, Arch School of Design and Business (Jaipur), etc. Or a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from colleges like Pearl Academy, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, etc.

STEP 4: Build a Portfolio

While in college, build a portfolio with all of your design ideas, drawings, projects, etc. This way when you apply for a job, you have all of your work in one place.

STEP 5: Internship

During your summer holidays, opt for an internship to gain exposure and experience in the field. This will give you insights into what your work would involve and also help you build a network in the industry.

STEP 6: Land a Job

Once you have completed your graduation and gained experience through internships, start applying for jobs. Alternatively, you could also look at setting up your own firm or consultancy.

Congratulations, you are officially an interior designer!

STEP 7: Postgraduate Degree

If you want to study further, you can opt to pursue a postgraduate diploma while working. Most people also prefer to pursue a diploma right after graduation. Pursue a two-year MSc in Interior Design or a two-year MA in Interior Design. You would need to have at least 50% in your graduation course to apply for this course.

You could also pursue a one-year Diploma in Interior Design from institutions like pearl academy, national institute of design, etc.

 

Thinking of a career as an Interior Designer? Take the Mentoria assessment test & talk to our career counsellors to get personalized step-by-step guidance for your future career path.

STEP 1: Class XI-XII/Junior College

If you’re interested in subjects like accounting and finance, opt for commerce in junior college.

STEP 2: Entrance Exam

One of the most common design entrance exams is the All India Entrance Examination for Design (AIEED). Most design institutions like Pearl Academy and JD Institute of Fashion Technology accept scores from the AIEED. The eligibility for this exam is at least 50% marks in Class 12.

Some colleges also hold their own entrance exam like the National Institute of Design (NID). Their entrance exam is divided into NID Prelims and NID Mains. The Prelims are a written test – you need to clear these to move on to the Mains which includes a studio-test and interview round. You need to have passed Class 12 in any stream to appear for this exam.

STEP 3: Graduation

Pursue a Bachelor of Design in Interior Design from colleges like National Institute of Design, School of Interior Design, Ahmedabad, etc.  This course generally lasts for 4-5 years depending on the university you opt for.

Alternatively, you can also pursue a three-year Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design from colleges like Pearl Academy, Arch School of Design and Business (Jaipur), etc. Or a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from colleges like Pearl Academy, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, etc.

STEP 4: Build a Portfolio

While in college, build a portfolio with all of your design ideas, drawings, projects, etc. This way when you apply for a job, you have all of your work in one place.

STEP 5: Internship

During your summer holidays, opt for an internship to gain exposure and experience in the field. This will give you insights into what your work would involve and also help you build a network in the industry.

STEP 6: Land a Job

Once you have completed your graduation and gained experience through internships, start applying for jobs. Alternatively, you could also look at setting up your own firm or consultancy.

Congratulations, you are officially an interior designer!

STEP 7: Postgraduate Degree

If you want to study further, you can opt to pursue a postgraduate diploma while working. Most people also prefer to pursue a diploma right after graduation. Pursue a two-year MSc in Interior Design or a two-year MA in Interior Design. You would need to have at least 50% in your graduation course to apply for this course.

You could also pursue a one-year Diploma in Interior Design from institutions like pearl academy, national institute of design, etc.

 

Thinking of a career as an Interior Designer? Take the Mentoria assessment test & talk to our career counsellors to get personalized step-by-step guidance for your future career path.

STEP 1: Class XI-XII/Junior College

If you’re interested in subjects like physics and chemistry, opt for science in junior college.

STEP 2: Entrance Exam

One of the most common design entrance exams is the All India Entrance Examination for Design (AIEED). Most design institutions like Pearl Academy and JD Institute of Fashion Technology accept scores from the AIEED. The eligibility for this exam is at least 50% marks in Class 12.

Some colleges also hold their own entrance exam like the National Institute of Design (NID). Their entrance exam is divided into NID Prelims and NID Mains. The Prelims are a written test – you need to clear these to move on to the Mains which includes a studio-test and interview round. You need to have passed Class 12 in any stream to appear for this exam.

STEP 3: Graduation

Pursue a Bachelor of Design in Interior Design from colleges like National Institute of Design, School of Interior Design, Ahmedabad, etc.  This course generally lasts for 4-5 years depending on the university you opt for.

Alternatively, you can also pursue a three-year Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from colleges like Pearl Academy, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, etc. Or a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design from colleges like Pearl Academy, Arch School of Design and Business (Jaipur), etc.

STEP 4: Build a Portfolio

While in college, build a portfolio with all of your design ideas, drawings, projects, etc. This way when you apply for a job, you have all of your work in one place.

STEP 5: Internship

During your summer holidays, opt for an internship to gain exposure and experience in the field. This will give you insights into what your work would involve and also help you build a network in the industry.

STEP 6: Land a Job

Once you have completed your graduation and gained experience through internships, start applying for jobs. Alternatively, you could also look at setting up your own firm or consultancy.

Congratulations, you are officially an interior designer!

STEP 7: Postgraduate Degree

If you want to study further, you can opt to pursue a postgraduate diploma while working. Most people also prefer to pursue a diploma right after graduation. Pursue a two-year MSc in Interior Design or a two-year MA in Interior Design. You would need to have at least 50% in your graduation course to apply for this course.

You could also pursue a one-year Diploma in Interior Design from institutions like pearl academy, national institute of design, etc.

 

Thinking of a career as an Interior Designer? Take the Mentoria assessment test & talk to our career counsellors to get personalized step-by-step guidance for your future career path.

What skills would you need?

Analytical and Data Skills

Analytical and Data Skills

Analytical and data skills involve the ability to evaluate information, interpret data, and draw insights to solve problems or make informed decisions. These skills require critical thinking, logical reasoning, and proficiency in working with data sets, often using tools like Excel, SQL, or statistical software. This skill set helps you break down complex problems, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions. In the workplace, strong analytical and data skills allow you to provide insights that guide strategies, optimise processes, and drive innovation. They are essential for roles involving research, business analysis, marketing, finance, and operations. build this skill
Creative Skills

Creative Skills

Creative skills involve the ability to think outside the box, generate new ideas, and find innovative solutions to problems. These skills include imagination, design thinking, artistic abilities, and the capacity to develop fresh concepts or approaches in different fields, from writing and art to problem-solving in business. Creative skills help you come up with original ideas, improve processes, and develop unique solutions in the workplace. In roles like marketing, design, or product development, creativity is essential for staying competitive and bringing new perspectives to projects or challenges. build this skill
Attention to Detail

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail means being careful and noticing small things that others might miss. It involves checking your work carefully for mistakes, following instructions exactly, and making sure everything is done correctly. This skill helps you do accurate work and avoid errors. In jobs, attention to detail is important for tasks like writing reports, managing data, or following safety rules.     build this skill
Time Management

Time Management

Time management refers to the ability to plan and organise how much time you spend on specific activities. Good time management enables individuals to work smarter rather than harder, helping them prioritise tasks, set goals, and allocate time efficiently. It includes skills such as prioritisation, scheduling, and setting deadlines, allowing individuals to maximise productivity and reduce stress. This skill is especially valuable in fast-paced environments, where the ability to adapt and adjust priorities can significantly impact performance.
Promotion levels

How do you make it to the top ranks?

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Trainee Interior Designer

At an entry-level, you would handle simple tasks such as researching the latest design trends, sourcing fabrics and furnishings, etc. You would also be guided on how to use different tools such as AutoCAD, Google Sketchup, 3DS Max and others.

Junior Interior Designer

Here, you would be expected to have a thorough knowledge of construction materials, statutory regulations, the use of various tools and various design concepts. You would assist the senior interior designer in developing designs as per the clients brief. You would assist with material selection and other requirements.

Senior Interior Designer

You will be working closely with the design and installation team, where you will handle various projects. You would visit the site, curate designs and meet clients to understand their requirements. Depending on where you work, you would handle residential and commercial projects including educational institutions and hospitals.

Project Manager

As the project manager, you would look at all the aspects of the project including its planning, execution and budget. Your job would involve managing and developing projects right from scratch and overseeing it to completion. You would lead a team of interior designers and also manage design calendars, arrange stakeholder meetings, conduct site visits and ensure that the project is completed on time.

Senior Project Manager

At this level, you would be supervising more than one or two projects at a time. You would attend client meetings, create design calendars and offer innovative and effective design solutions. You would be held accountable for all the projects handled by you.

 

Principal Interior Designer

At this stage, you are the face of your firm. You would represent the work your firm puts out. As the principal, you would be required to not only handle design concepts but also work closely with the marketing and sales team to ensure the firm makes a good profit. You would also have to attend various design events.

Please note: At any stage in your career, you can choose to start your own consultancy or firm.

Scope

Pursuing your career locally VS abroad

If you pursue interior designing in India, you get to network with the people in the industry here, which would make it easier for you to get a job. Additionally, you would also be aware of the latest trends in the Indian market and have a better understanding of the need of the Indian consumer which would help you serve them better.

Pursuing an interior designing course in India could cost you INR 75,000-INR 5,00,000 per year, depending on the university and course you opt for. Top colleges in India to pursue interior designing courses are: JJ School or Arts, SNDT Women’s College, Birla Institute of Liberal Arts and Management Sciences and others. There are many institutions in India that offer courses ranging from a certificate course to a degree or diploma course. While a certificate course is enough to land you a job in the country, a masters or diploma course would further help you enhance your skills and knowledge in the field.

Studying interior designing abroad would help you broaden your knowledge in the field and learn different international design concepts. Moreover, it would also help expand your skill set and understanding of design on a global scale. With a lot of people wanting to do something new with their spaces, your broader understanding of design will help you stand out from the rest. Also, if you plan to work abroad, a degree from the same country would increase your chances of landing a job.

An interior designing course abroad would cost you anywhere between INR 2,00,000-15,00,000 per year. The duration of these courses ranges from 1-5 years. The fee of the course largely depends on the university and the course you opt for.  Top colleges to pursue a course in interior designing are: Florence Design School, Design and Arts School of New Zealand, Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design and others.

 

Payscale

How much would you get paid?

The exact number will depend on where you’re working, your education, skill-set and internship experience.  But we can give you a general idea.


Specialisations

What are your career options?

Furniture Designing

Furniture designers are proficient in designing and creating furnishings by taking into consideration both its functionality and look. You would usually design both exterior and interior furnishing pieces in keeping with the customer’s preferences, its sustainability and use. You would need a good eye for detail and an understanding of how to use space optimally. You would mostly work with a variety of materials such as wood, metal, fabric, etc.

Exhibition Designing

An exhibition designer works on setting up large commercial public exhibitions, trade shows, events, and cultural exhibitions. You will also work on setting up exhibitions at museums, libraries and art galleries or setting up temporary display items for businesses and retailers. Your main job is to set up the display of the exhibition as per the theme of the product or event. It is important that you understand the product, needs and the objectives of the exhibition. Like most other interior designers, you too will have to create design sketches and build mockups to give the clients and actual view of how the exhibition set up would look like.

Lighting Designing

As a lighting designer, your main job is to lighten up spaces in a functional and appealing manner. You would work on creating lighting concepts for various commercial spaces, industries, educational institutions, public areas, etc. While doing this, it is also important that you consider the cost-effectiveness and energy-efficiency of running and maintaining the lights. Here, knowledge of different types of lights will come in handy.

Kitchen Designing

Kitchen designers are primarily involved in planning the design and look of  kitchens. It is your job to ensure that the space strikes a good balance between design and functionality. You would work with your clients to understand their expectations in terms of the design, colour, theme, pattern and layout of the kitchen. The designing of the whole kitchen right from the flooring, installation, doorways, counter tops and placement of appliances will be left up to your expertise.

Product Designing

As the name suggests, a product designer works on designing various products including artistic pieces, apparel and furniture. To become a successful product designer, you need to be creative and have the ability to think and present your design ideas in a unique way. You would work on a wide range of commodities including rugs, cushions, clocks, gift articles, etc. If your good, you could establish your own product line or work full time for a product-designing firm.

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