Interior Design

What is Interior Design?

Interior design is not only about home décor, but also about space planning and creating aesthetically pleasing, yet functional, spaces in public buildings and commercial properties, such as hotels, airports, shops, offices, leisure venues and restaurants.

About Interior Design

The work of an interior designer is to combine their creative and artistic vision to create environments that are functional, yet inviting. This is done according to the specifications of a client and clearly understanding the client’s needs, while also advising them on how to realize their goals while staying within their budget requirements.  An interior designer also sources materials and products while considering building code, safety, pricing, functionality and style.

Key Qualities of a Good Interior Designer

• Be creative and artistic
• Being interested in physical spaces
• Be able to work well with others and be open to suggestions
• Must be organized and disciplined
• Have an interest in or knowledge of business

How to become an Interior Designer

The education standards in North America are set by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA). 

In Canada, each provincial interior design association sets its own educational requirements such as attending interior design classes and receiving a Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma at a recognized school of interior design plus membership in the provincial regulatory authority, completing qualified work experience and successfully passing the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam.

In the US, you must also attend an interior design school whose degree is recognized by CIDA.   Individual states are responsible for licensing standards but also include passing the NCIDQ exam and having at least four years work experience as a practicing interior designer.

Featured Canadian Colleges Offering Interior Design Programs

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  LaSalle College Vancouver

  Programs

  • Bachelor of Applied Design in Interior Design
  • Interior Design
  

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  Centre for Arts and Technology

  Programs

  • See Programs Here
  

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  Herzing College

  Programs

  • Architectural Design
  • Interior Design