We are working on a series of blog posts which profile different interior designers. From world famous designers to lesser known, from Australia and abroad, we want to spotlight interior design! To begin this series I am going to delve into what an interior designer does. When researching this story I was surprised to find out how many roles an interior designer plays in the design process.
Qualifications and Study
A registered interior designer will have a bachelors degree or equivalent qualification. This qualification is obviously necessary to becoming an interior designer, but there is also the chance of on-going study. Often an interior designer will need or want to update their qualifications and gain qualifications in other areas as their career progresses. These extra areas of study may include construction or architecture. Often an interior designer will have to work alongside builders, architects, businesses and need to be aware of council policy. I imagine that any extra study that is going to make these working relationships easier and make a designer more knowledgeable, is going to help in the long run!
Communication is Key
It seems as though an interior designer spends most of their time communicating! Between liaising with the clients, the builder and the architect, great communication skills are one of the most important parts of interior design. From the initial meeting with the clients, where communicating what the client wants and needs to communicating this vision to the builder, it is the most important part of the job! A designer needs to be able to take what the client wants, dream up their home and effectively tell the builder what the vision is. This is paramount in creating the home that the client absolutely loves! Working on communication strategies and even further study in communications could be beneficial for an interior designer.
An Eye for Detail
The details in a home is what makes a difference in the overall design. An interior designer must have the ability to choose the perfect detail from cushion, to furniture, even architectural detail. Spatial awareness is also a skill used by interior designers, to ensure each space works practically and all furniture and fittings work within a space. Details in a room that the client may not even think of, including finishes, furniture size and lighting are all up to the designer. These little details are what make a room special and inviting. An eye for detail is a talent that is essential as an interior designer.
Keeping Up to Date
Keeping up to date with design trends is essential for an interior designer. As design trends are constantly changing, it is important for a designer to keep up to date, to be successful in the long run. Going to trade fairs and shows is part of being an interior designer, not only to keep up to date with trends, but to make contacts in the industry. It may be a creative career, but interior design is a business and a designer will need to be savvy with branding. Keeping up to date with social media, past clients and business contacts is essential in building and growing a business.
Follow our design series, as we look at the beautiful work of different interior designers from around the world!
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