What Do Interior Designers Do?
Interior design is essentially the creation of a feel in a space. So, what do interior designers do in this regard?
What Do Interior Designers Do?
There is a difference between an Interior Designer and an Interior Decorator. The two terms are often mixed up in common usage. The Interior Decorator is concerned with the beautification of an existing space while the Interior Designer is more concerned with the process of shaping that space in terms of the spatial volume as well as the surface beautification done by the Decorator. The Decorator does not usually need formal training nor do they need licenses or certifications. The Designer generally needs both.
The Interior Designer will begin by researching and analyzing the goals of the client and then will be in charge of negotiating any necessary contracts. They will develop plans; prepare documents and drawing; and create a design concept that meets the client’s goals. This design concept will have to account for health, safety, accessibility, environmental, and code concerns. Once the project is underway, the Interior Designer will act as a project manager. They will perform quality inspections and arrange for all sub-contracted work.
The part of the job that is usually considered to be Interior Decorating will be done either by or under the supervision of the Interior Designer. This is the concern with style, color, and decor that is usually thought of as interior decorating. Every element of the design concept comes into play in the decorating phase as well as the construction phase. Furniture selection and paint schemes should incorporate the concept in the same manner as the shape of the room and the size of the space.
Many Interior Designers specialize in a various type of design. This is known as “niche” designing. Some areas of specialization include residential and commercial. Certain specialties might also be restaurant design, hospital design, or office design. In some jurisdictions, a license might be required for a certain “niche” Interior Designer.
Job prospects for Interior Designers over the next decade are good. The field is expected to grow at a rate equal to the growth of the economy. One reason for this is the increased interest in “Green” design. This is a system of optimum environmental consideration in design. Although Green design encompasses the exterior construction and the energy supply for a building, Interior Design can also contribute to the overall environmental suitability and sustainability. Growing wealth and an increased concern with design consideration should keep professional and talented Interior Designers busy for years to come.