Interior designer vs. interior decorator

Before we dive in, it's important to clarify the difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator. The two terms are often used interchangeably, but they represent very different roles.

An interior decorator typically focuses on aesthetics. They furnish and adorn a space with decorative elements like furniture, textiles, and accessories to achieve a certain look. Decorating doesn't require formal education or licensing.

An interior designer, on the other hand, uses the art and science of understanding human behavior to create functional spaces within a building. They are trained to consider building codes, accessibility standards, and structural elements.

While interior designers may decorate, their work is much broader. It often involves coordinating with architects and contractors, creating technical drawings, and ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of the occupants.

This article focuses on the path to becoming a professional interior designer.

The 4 steps to becoming an interior designer

While every career journey is unique, the path to becoming a qualified interior designer generally follows four main steps.

Step 1: Earn your interior design degree

Formal education provides the foundation for your career. While a degree is not legally required everywhere, it is essential if you plan to become certified or licensed. Most professionals have a bachelor's degree in interior design from a program accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA).

A CIDA-accredited program ensures your coursework meets industry standards and prepares you for professional practice. Typical subjects include color theory, lighting, space planning, materials, building codes, and computer-aided design (CAD). While a traditional bachelor's degree is common, other potential paths include:

• Certificate programs: Accelerated options for career changers with existing degrees

• Associate degrees: Two-year programs that can lead to entry-level positions (though additional experience will be required for certification)

• Online and hybrid programs: Many accredited schools now offer flexible learning options for working professionals.

Some states allow alternate pathways, such as degrees in architecture or other design disciplines combined with additional experience, but a CIDA-accredited degree remains the most direct route.

Step 2: Gain professional interior design experience

Hands-on training is critical. Most aspiring designers begin through internships or apprenticeships under licensed or certified professionals.

After graduation, you'll need to accumulate supervised work experience to qualify for certification. The Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ) administers the NCIDQ examination and requires both education and experience before candidates can sit for the exam.

*Exact requirements can change, so always confirm with cidq.org.

To find quality experience:

• Seek internships during school through career services or professional organizations.

• Apply to design firms, architecture practices, or retail design departments.

• Network through local interior design association chapters for mentorship opportunities.

Step 3: Build a compelling design portfolio

Your portfolio is your single most powerful career tool. It's a visual resume that showcases your skills, creativity, and technical abilities to employers and clients alike.

Start with your best work from school and expand it as you gain professional experience. Be sure to include a variety of work, such as technical drawings (like floor plans and elevations), concept boards, and high-quality photos of finished spaces. A strong digital portfolio is a must-have in today's market.

Step 4: Pass the NCIDQ examination

This final step is what separates a professional interior designer from a decorator. The NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) examination is the industry's benchmark for competence. The exam consists of three parts that test your knowledge and skills:

• IDFX (Fundamentals Exam): Tests foundational knowledge

• IDPX (Professional Exam): Assesses application of knowledge in practice

• IDIX (Implementation Exam): A practical, scenario-based exam where you solve real-world design problems

Passing this examination demonstrates your expertise in protecting public health, safety, and welfare. This certification is the key that unlocks professional licensure in most states that regulate the interior design profession.

Interior designer certification vs. license

These two terms are closely related but not identical, and they are critical to your interior design career:

• Certification is earned from a professional organization. The NCIDQ is the premier certification for interior designers. Passing this exam proves you have the required knowledge and experience. It is the credential that proves your competency.

• Licensure (or "registration") is granted by individual state governments. It legally permits you to practice or use the title "interior designer."

Not all U.S. states regulate interior design. In regulated jurisdictions, you must be NCIDQ-certified before applying for a license. In unregulated areas, you can often practice residential design without it, though certification still adds significant professional credibility and is often required for commercial projects.

Maintaining your credentials

Most states requiring licensure also mandate continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain your license. Requirements typically range from 6 to 12 hours annually, covering topics like building codes, accessibility standards, and emerging design practices.

Specialization and advanced certifications

As you advance in your career, you may choose to specialize in a particular type of design, such as sustainable design, healthcare, hospitality, or even set design for film, television, or theater. Beyond the NCIDQ, additional certifications can distinguish you in specialized markets:

• LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): Demonstrates expertise in sustainable, green building design; highly valued as environmental consciousness grows

• WELL AP (WELL Building Standard): Focuses on health and wellness in building design, addressing air quality, lighting, and occupant well-being

• EDAC (Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification): Specialized certification for healthcare design professionals

• Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS): Certification for designing homes that accommodate changing needs as residents age

Professional organizations and networking

Joining professional organizations is invaluable for career development, networking, and staying current with industry trends.

Benefits of membership include:

• Access to continuing education and certifications

• Networking opportunities with established professionals

• Job boards and career resources

• Industry research and trend reports

• Advocacy for the profession

• Mentorship programs for emerging designers

Essential skills for interior designers

Interior design blends technical proficiency with creativity and interpersonal skills. Successful designers develop strength in all three areas.

Technical skills

• Building codes: The ability to understand and apply local, state, and federal regulations, including building codes and accessibility (ADA) standards

• Design software: Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software like AutoCAD and 3D modeling programs like SketchUp and Revit

• Space planning: The technical skill of organizing interior spaces to be functional, safe, and efficient

• Emerging technologies: Familiarity with VR/AR for client presentations and AI-assisted design tools

Creative and design skills

• Creative vision: Strong understanding of color theory, lighting, textiles, and materials

• Trend awareness: Staying current with design movements while creating timeless spaces

• Problem-solving: Finding innovative solutions within budget and spatial constraints

Business and soft skills

• Communication: Clearly presenting your ideas to clients, listening to their feedback, and coordinating with contractors, vendors, and architects

• Project management: Overseeing budgets, managing timelines, and ensuring projects are completed as planned

• Client relations: Building trust, managing expectations, and handling difficult situations professionally

• Business acumen: Understanding contracts, pricing structures, and profit margins

• Marketing: Building your personal brand and attracting clients through social media, networking, and referrals

FAQs about becoming an interior designer

How long does it take to become an interior designer?

For most people, it takes about 6 to 7 years to become a certified interior designer. This typically includes four years for a bachelor's degree followed by two to three years of required, supervised work experience before you are eligible to take and pass the NCIDQ exam.

How much do interior designers make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for interior designers is around $62,000 per year. Entry-level designers may earn closer to $45,000, while senior or firm-owning professionals can exceed $90,000. Earnings vary widely by region, experience, and specialization.

Can I become an interior designer without a degree?

You can work as an interior decorator without a degree. However, you cannot become a certified or licensed interior designer in most states without a formal education and passing the NCIDQ exam. A degree is the standard requirement for anyone wanting to work on commercial projects or have the legal right to use the professional title "Interior Designer."

Do I need to be good at drawing to be an interior designer?

While sketching skills are valuable for communicating ideas quickly, most technical work is done using CAD and 3D modeling software. Strong visualization and spatial reasoning skills are more important than being able to draw perfectly.

Can I work remotely as an interior designer?

Yes, many interior designers now offer virtual design services. However, site visits are usually necessary for accurate measurements and to assess existing conditions, particularly for commercial projects.