As a student of Sage Sage College of Albany studying interior design, there are a lot of misconceptions about the field. Interior designs plays a major role in the livelihood of people around the world.
There's a difference between Interior Designers and Decorators
"You are an interior design major, does this look good here?"
"Can you please decorate my house?"
As flattering as these questions are, I can't help but feel slightly perturbed. I am very understanding of these questions because most people do not know what Interior Designers actually do. The majority may think that Interior Designers just decorate and furnish spaces, however, while decorating is a part of it, it is not the main focus whatsoever.
By playing with fabrics, colors and textiles, anyone can call themselves an Interior Decorator. Education is what distinguishes a Designer from a Decorator. This education involves understanding the appropriate computer programs, like CAD and Revit, spatial concepts, design processes, building codes and regulations (commercial and residential) and working well with others, like clients and other professionals.
The work load
Most people do not realize that there are plenty of other tasks to complete besides picking fabrics and colors. Before a designer even touches the computer, there are a ton of preliminary tasks.
A design idea could be quick to think of, but executing that idea properly will take some time. Designing is all about the process. I learned the importance of process from my professors. Steps can include: the idea, developing the idea further (sketches), production (building small models), eliminating and reevaluating and finally developing upon your best idea.
Once you begin to carry out your design, using software such as SketchUp is useful to build a virtual 3D model of your space. Later, a designer will work in AutoCAD, which is a commercial software application for 2D and 3D computer-aided designs and drafting.
Working with these programs takes an extremely long time. Frustrating things such as the program lagging, or your computer crashing, comes with this profession. Working through these problems, and solving the issues, makes you a better designer.
Dealing with Other Professionals
Designers are expected to have a broad range of skills not only in design, but in communication as well. Designers not only work with homeowners, but also with builders, architects, business owners and government agencies. It is important to be well rounded.
Communication is key for being successful with pretty much any job. This includes typing proper emails, returning urgent phone calls, cooperating in team settings and more. Having professional conversations will make you that much more successful, even outside of the studio.
