What’s an Interior Design Consultant?

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An interior design consultant designs and manages the construction or renovation of interior spaces, specializing in residential, commercial, or healthcare facilities. They require years of education and training and often work for design consultancies or run their own businesses. A diploma or associate certificate is required, and apprenticeships are common. The demand for skilled interior designers is high due to urbanization and a growing population.

An interior design consultant is an individual who designs and directs the construction or renovation of an interior space. A professional can help people decide on color schemes, materials and furniture that suit their personalities and add aesthetic beauty to their homes. A consultant may also specialize in the refurbishment of commercial buildings and healthcare facilities, focusing on safety and functionality. Becoming an interior design consultant requires several years of hands-on education and training to master a wide variety of tasks, from project design to customer service.

People usually hire design consultants when planning major renovations or constructing new buildings and residences. An interior design consultant gets a client’s input on what she wants, takes accurate measurements, determines if the specifications meet safety codes, and creates blueprints for the new design. The designer often personally selects the paints, artwork, furniture and materials to be used for the project. She supervises the contract workers in building the new interior design, ensuring everything is code compliant and matches the client’s wishes. After the completion of a project, the designer meets once again with the client to answer any questions and suggest minor adjustments.

A large number of professionals are employed by design consultancies, construction companies and retail stores, although many experienced consultants choose to run their own businesses. An independent interior design consultant offers his services on a contract basis, accepting many clients and scheduling appointments. It usually takes on general administrative and management duties as well as consultancy services, such as promoting the company, directly invoicing clients, working with construction and design companies, and possibly hiring assistants.

To become an interior design consultant, a person typically must hold at least a diploma or associate certificate from an accredited interior design school. Some universities offer bachelor’s degree programs in design and consulting. Most graduates of design programs take on paid apprenticeships at interior design firms. An apprenticeship, which can take one to three years to complete, involves observing and assisting established designers, gaining valuable first-hand experience. A designer who has successfully completed an apprenticeship may be required to pass a written licensing exam administered by her state or country before practicing independently.

There is typically a constant demand for skilled interior designers. A growing population and urbanization create a need for expert consultants to help design new commercial buildings, apartments and homes. Employment opportunities are generally very good for people with highly specialized skills, such as those who focus on bathroom design.




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