A Career in Interior Design
Deciding on a School
Deciding on what type of interior design education you would like to pursue is a big challenge. There are so many different types of programs: two years, four years, big universities, and private art schools. You've probably asked yourself whether a four-year degree is really necessary or if a two-year degree is really enough. Before you can make these big decisions, you really should start at square one. Find out which schools are in your area, or in the areas where you would be willing to live. Then do some investigating: find out what sort of design they specialize in, who are they accredited by and what does that mean, how much does the program cost, etc. Then, set up an appointment with a faculty member—this is a surefire way to decide whether or not a program is right for you. Ask the faculty member about the types of classes that are offered, the teaching philosophy of the department, what percentage of graduates actually pursue interior design and what types of jobs have they landed. Arming yourself with all the details is the best way to make an informed decision!
Decorator vs. Designer
While interior decorating is an important aspect of interior design, interior design encompasses a much greater scope of practice and professionalism. Interior decorating is the application of finishes, i.e. wallpaper, fabrics, furniture, etc. An interior designer is a professional who identifies, researches and creatively solves problems pertaining to the function and quality of the interior environment. A designer is responsible for performing services relative to interior spaces, including programming, design analysis, space planning and aesthetics, using specialized knowledge of interior construction, building codes, equipment, materials and furnishings. Designers are formally trained to prepare drawings and documents relative to the design of interior spaces in order to enhance and protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.
What is the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (formally known as FIDER)?
The Council for Interior Design Accreditation—formally known as FIDER—is an organization that you've probably heard a good deal about. The council is an accrediting body for interior design schools. The organization develops guidelines and goals for the future of interior design education and then offers schools the opportunity to meet those standards and receive accreditation by the council.
Lack of accreditation doesn't necessarily mean that your school does not meet the high standards; the school may simply not have applied. The council's accreditation is not required for ASID student membership or advancement into practitioner levels. It does, however play a roll in some state's interior design regulations and laws.
Why Education is Important
Completing a degree, either an associates or bachelors, is necessary to the interior design profession. Over twenty states and jurisdictions currently have licensing requirements for interior design practitioners. In many of these states, you cannot even call yourself an interior designer unless you meet or exceed a certain level of accredited education and in some cases pass the NCIDQ exam (National Council for Interior Design Qualification). Regulation of interior design practice continues to become increasingly wide spread.
If you are interested in the NCIDQ exam, its eligibility requirements, content and purpose, visit: http://www.ncidq.org/.
Editorial provided by the ASID, American Society of Interior Designers located in Washington DC.
