Interior Designer
Cinthia Servin-Garcia
Duties and Responsibilities
- Determine the client’s goals and requirements of the project
- Consider how the space will be used and how people will move through the space
- Sketch preliminary design plans
- Specify materials and furnishings, such as lighting, furniture, wall coverings, flooring, equipment, and artwork
- Prepare final plans using computer applications
- Create a timeline for the interior design project and estimate project costs
- Oversee installing the design elements
- Visit after the project to ensure that the client is satisfied
- Search for and bid on new projects
- working with architects/builders to know how the space will look when finished
Working Schedule and Salary
As an interior designer you have a full time working schedule. One has to constantly be changing up the hours a day, week, etc. worked to meet both the clients needs and deadlines. Being able to schedule meetings during the evening and weekends while traveling to different job sites are involved in the busy scheduling of an interior designer. Depending on where and what the project is being done is how much a designer can make. For example one would make more money in a wealthy neighborhood or hospital than remodeling a bedroom to a family on a budget. The average an interior designer can earn is about $22.25 an hour and an average of $46,280 a year.
In this picture we are shown the design of a newly renovated kitchen. Notice how everything seems to flow and is positioned in a comforting and relaxed way.
Above is what is know as a concept board. A concept board is a "map" of all the ideas and plans a designer has. A client can now see where the designer is planning to take the project and can start to suggest and change things they do not like.
How does the picture above make you feel? This is a common question asked by designers to their clients in order to achieve the vision they have.
Skills and Schooling
Besides having a high school diploma, this career requires one to have a bachelor's degree with a focus on interior design. It is a requirement and also beneficial to have skills in architecture, engineering and related services. Also to have an idea about different furnishings and placements, building materials and also supplies dealers.
The Future
By the year 2020 there is an estimated 19-27% of growth within this business. One can better their opportunities by working in wealthier areas, specializing in specific areas within that trade (ex. kitchen remodeling, bedroom, etc.) and also having long term projects such as hospital or school remodeling.