Our five-pronged approach focuses on your individual strengths to develop your unique qualities towards making you an exemplary pi- designer.
Deepali Chauhan
04/06/2025
share
Overview:
Interior design has rapidly evolved from a niche profession into a dynamic and in-demand career, fueled by changing lifestyles, evolving aesthetics, and a growing focus on personalized, functional, and sustainable living spaces.
As people place greater value on the environments they inhabit, the demand for skilled interior designers has surged across sectors, from residential and commercial spaces to environmentally conscious design. This growing need reflects a broader shift toward creating interiors that are not only visually appealing but also purposeful and future-ready.
Table of contents
Residential spaces have undergone a transformation, with homes now seen as personal sanctuaries and reflections of individual style. The rise of remote work has heightened the need for interiors that balance functionality with aesthetics, prompting homeowners to seek skilled designers who can create spaces that foster both productivity and comfort.
In the commercial sector, businesses increasingly value well-designed spaces that boost employee productivity and enhance customer experience. From collaborative offices to engaging retail environments and adaptable co-working spaces, interior designers play a vital role in creating functional, inspiring, and versatile spaces that meet evolving professional needs.
Sustainability is a key driver in the growth of interior design, as more people seek to reduce their environmental impact. This shift has increased demand for designers who can create spaces that are not only stylish and functional but also eco-friendly, using sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and designs that maximize natural light and ventilation. As sustainability becomes a priority, the need for environmentally conscious design expertise continues to rise.
Additionally, technology is reshaping the interior design industry, with tools like advanced design software and virtual reality enabling more accurate, immersive project visualizations. These innovations enhance the design process and improve client engagement. As technology evolves, it continues to unlock new possibilities, making interior design an increasingly dynamic and forward-looking profession.
Now is a great time to pursue a career in interior design, with growing opportunities to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also enhance well-being and support sustainability. We know that choosing a career can come with many questions, so we’ve organized this article in a Q&A format to help you find clear, quick answers. Whether you're exploring interior design degrees, looking for internships, or curious about industry salaries, this guide has you covered.
Interior design is the art and science of enhancing the interiors of buildings and spaces to achieve a healthier, more functional and aesthetically pleasing environment. It involves the careful planning and coordination of various elements, including color, interior design finishings, furniture, lighting and spatial layout, to create spaces that meet the needs and preferences of the occupants.
The primary role of interior design is to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and efficient. For instance, in residential design, this might mean creating open-concept living areas that encourage social interaction, while in commercial spaces, it could involve designing layouts that enhance productivity and collaboration among employees.
Aesthetics also play a crucial role in interior design. The choice of colors, materials, and furnishings can significantly influence the mood and atmosphere of a space. Designers use their knowledge of design principles to create harmonious environments that reflect the personality and style of the occupants. Skilled interior designers can transform even small areas into functional and inviting spaces through innovative layouts and clever storage solutions.
Interior design is becoming increasingly relevant, driven by key contemporary trends. Sustainability is at the forefront, with designers embracing eco-friendly materials and practices to reduce carbon footprints and promote healthier living through non-toxic choices and improved air quality.
Minimalism is another rising trend, focusing on simplicity, functionality, and the use of fewer, high-quality pieces to create calm, intentional spaces. Meanwhile, technology continues to transform the industry with advancements in design software, virtual reality, and smart home systems enabling more precise visualizations and enhancing functionality, making interiors more efficient, convenient, and adaptable.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the importance of thoughtful interior design continues to grow, reflecting our evolving values and lifestyles.
- To pursue a career in interior design, you typically need to have completed your 12th grade in any stream, be it Science, Commerce, or Arts. Most colleges require a minimum percentage in your board exams, often around 50% or higher. After 12th, aspiring interior designers should enroll in a bachelor’s degree programme in interior design, which usually spans three to four years. This degree will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for the profession.
- Many reputable colleges in India and abroad require candidates to clear interior design entrance exams for admission into their interior design programmes. Some of the popular entrance exams include:
In addition to entrance exams, preparing a strong interior design portfolio is crucial. Your portfolio should showcase your creativity, design skills, and any relevant projects or artworks. Include sketches, photographs of previous work, and any design-related projects you have completed during your schooling.
Several prestigious colleges in India offer excellent programmes in interior design. Some of the best include:
For international options, consider institutions like:
Familiarize yourself with the structure and types of questions asked in the entrance exams. This will help you strategize your preparation effectively.
Work on sample papers and previous years’ question papers to build your confidence and improve your time management skills.
Since interior design heavily relies on visual representation, practice sketching and drawing regularly to enhance your artistic abilities.
Read design magazines, follow interior design blogs, and engage with design communities to stay informed about the latest trends and innovations in the field.
As mentioned earlier, a well-prepared interior design portfolio can significantly enhance your chances of admission. Include a variety of works that demonstrate your creativity and design thinking.
There are several types of interior design degrees available, each catering to different educational needs and career aspirations. Below, we outline the main categories of interior design degrees, including diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses.
Typically 1 to 2 years, diploma programmes in interior design are designed to provide foundational knowledge and practical skills in the field. These courses often cover essential topics such as design principles, color theory, space planning, and materials selection.
Syllabus Highlights: Basic design concepts and techniques; Drawing and drafting skills; Introduction to computer-aided design (CAD); Understanding of building codes and regulations
Specialization Options: Some diploma programmes may offer specializations in areas such as residential design, commercial design, or sustainable design.
Usually 3 to 4 years, undergraduate degrees in interior design, such as a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) or Bachelor of Design (B.Des.), provide a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. These programmes are more in-depth and prepare students for entry-level positions in the industry.
Syllabus Highlights: Advanced design theory and practice; Interior architecture and spatial design; Lighting design and color psychology; Project management and professional practice
Specialization Options: Students may choose to specialize in areas such as hospitality design, healthcare design, or exhibition design, allowing them to tailor their education to specific interests within the field.
Spanning 1 to 2 years, Postgraduate programmes, such as a Master of Design (M.Des.) or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Interior Design, are aimed at individuals who wish to deepen their expertise and advance their careers. These programmes often focus on research, innovation, and specialized design practices.
Syllabus Highlights: Research methodologies in design; Advanced design studio work; Sustainable design practices; Leadership and entrepreneurship in design.
Specialization Options: Postgraduate students can often pursue specialized tracks, such as urban design, design research, or advanced sustainable design.
Interior design courses are offered in various formats to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules:
While interior design certification isn’t always mandatory to start working in the field, it can be incredibly useful, especially for those looking to upskill, specialize, or transition into interior design from another background. Certifications can boost your credibility, help build a strong portfolio, and give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs or freelance gigs.
For those aiming to stand out in the industry, here are a few well-recognized certification programmes:
That said, while certifications are valuable, they often serve as a supplement rather than a substitute. An interior design degree from one of the best colleges for interior design provides a more comprehensive foundation covering design history, architecture principles, technical drawing, and real-world application through internships.
Becoming a successful interior designer takes more than just a good eye for aesthetics, it requires a balanced blend of creative skills, technical know-how, and strong interpersonal abilities. Whether you're designing homes, commercial spaces, or eco-conscious environments, these skills shape your ability to deliver functional, beautiful, and client-focused spaces.
Creative skills : You’ll need a strong grasp of color theory, spatial planning, and concept development to bring inspiring and cohesive designs to life. These skills help you visualize how a space will look and feel long before the first piece of furniture is placed.
Technical Skills : On the technical side, interior designers are expected to master tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and other 3D rendering software to create accurate layouts and realistic design models. These digital tools are essential for presenting ideas to clients and collaborating with architects, contractors and vendors.
Soft Skills : And let’s not forget the importance of soft skills. Successful designers excel in client communication, project management, and problem-solving. You’ll need to interpret client needs, stay organized through multiple stages of a project, and adapt quickly to unexpected challenges all while keeping your creative vision intact.
Interior design internships are a crucial stepping stone for anyone aspiring to break into the industry. They provide practical, real-world experience that helps bridge the gap between academic learning and professional application. While classroom projects and theory build your foundation, internships show you how design works in action.
By working with interior design studios, architectural consultancies, or established design firms, you gain first-hand exposure to how creative ideas are transformed into actual spaces. You’ll participate in real client projects, observing or even contributing to stages like concept development, space planning, and furniture selection. Interns often get to sit in on client meetings, accompany teams on site visits, and assist in preparing mood boards, floor plans, and 3D visualizations using software like AutoCAD and SketchUp.
Internships also teach you the soft skills that are rarely covered in depth in the classroom like communicating with clients, understanding their briefs, handling feedback, and managing tight deadlines. These experiences are essential for building professional maturity and confidence.
So how do you find the right interior design internship? Begin with your college’s placement cell, which often has industry partnerships. You can also actively search on LinkedIn, job boards like Internshala or Indeed, and even directly on the websites or social media pages of design firms.
Don’t hesitate to reach out with a personal brand / personalized email and portfolio. Initiative counts in creative industries!
The world of interior design trends is constantly evolving, and 2025 is all about creating spaces that are not only beautiful, but also smart, sustainable, and deeply personal. Whether you're designing a home, office, or retail space, staying updated with the latest trends is key to remaining relevant and innovative as a designer.
One of the biggest movements right now is biophilic design which brings nature indoors through elements like indoor plants, natural light, water features, and organic textures. It's more than an aesthetic choice, it promotes wellness, calm, and a stronger connection to the environment. Alongside this, there’s a growing emphasis on sustainable materials such as bamboo, recycled metal, cork, and reclaimed wood, as both clients and designers prioritize eco-friendly choices.
Another major shift is the rise of multifunctional spaces. With hybrid work and compact urban living becoming the norm, interior designers are crafting adaptable areas that serve more than one purpose, like fold-out workstations in living rooms, or modular furniture that shifts between lounge and dining setups.
On the tech front, smart home integration is no longer optional. From lighting and temperature control to voice-activated assistants and automated appliances, today’s interiors are becoming more connected. Designers are also exploring AR (Augmented Reality) tools in design planning, helping clients visualize layouts, furniture, and color schemes before execution.
Lastly, we’re seeing a push toward regional aesthetics and personalized interiors. Clients are increasingly drawn to designs that reflect their cultural roots, travel stories, or personal tastes, making every space feel uniquely theirs.
As an interior designer, staying on top of these interior design trends helps you deliver forward-thinking solutions that align with both style and functionality in today’s fast-changing world.
When it comes to the salary of interior designers, earnings can vary significantly based on experience, location, work setting, and skill set. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your career, understanding the industry pay standards can help you set realistic goals and negotiate better opportunities.
In India, entry-level interior designers can expect to earn anywhere between ₹2.5 to ₹4.5 lakhs per annum, depending on the city, firm, and their academic background. Designers working in major metros like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru often earn on the higher end due to increased demand and cost of living. With a few years of experience, mid-level designers can make around ₹6 to ₹10 lakhs annually, while experienced professionals, especially those with a strong resume/ portfolio or niche specialization earn salaries of ₹12 lakhs or more per year.
Globally, the numbers are higher. In countries like the USA, the average salary for interior designers ranges from $50,000 to $75,000 annually, with top designers earning over $100,000. In Europe, the average salary is around €35,000 to €60,000, depending on the country, while in places like Canada or Australia, mid to senior-level designers often earn upwards of CAD 70,000 or AUD 80,000 per year.
It’s also worth noting the difference between freelancing and full-time studio roles. Freelancers have more flexibility and can set their own rates, but their income may fluctuate based on the number and scale of projects. In contrast, full-time roles at design studios, architecture firms, or corporate offices offer more stability, benefits, and often better long-term growth.
Several factors affect pay in this field, such as:
The world of interior design is as diverse as the spaces it transforms. As the industry expands, so do the job profiles in interior design, offering professionals the chance to specialize in areas that align with their passions and skills. Here are some of the top career paths in interior design you can explore:
If you're passionate about turning empty rooms into inspired spaces, a career in interior design could be your perfect match. Here’s a quick recap of the step-by-step journey to becoming a successful interior designer after 12th:
Start with the right education, pursuing an interior design degree from one of the best colleges for interior design gives you a strong foundation in design theory, spatial planning, and technical tools. Complement this with hands-on experience through interior design internships, which help you apply your skills in real-world settings and build a professional network.
Next, consider earning interior design certifications or enrolling in online interior design courses to expand your expertise in niche areas like lighting, sustainability, or 3D modeling. Along the way, develop essential interior design software skills and stay tech-savvy with software like AutoCAD, SketchUp and rendering tools.
Don’t forget interior design is an ever-evolving field. Staying curious, exploring different job profiles in interior design, and keeping up with the latest interior design trends will keep your work fresh, relevant, and impactful.
1. Thinking of pursuing an interior design course after 12th? Discover the options here.
2. Fascinated by the intricacies of photography? Learn more about how to stand out in this crowded industry.
3. Preparing for an interview for a top fashion design college? Shrankhla has shared some tips to prepare.
4. Confused between Architecture, Interior Architecture and Design, and Interior Decoration? Find out the difference between the three.
5. Want to create a portfolio for a bachelor’s in interior design? Here is how to create a winning portfolio.
Stories
What is Interior Architecture & Design?
Did you know that we spend about 90% of our time indoors! We use the built environment, especially interior spaces,…
Learning About the Business of Fashion
Overview: This blog emphasizes that fashion design is much more than creating garments. It is basically about understanding cultures and…
Photography for Beginners: The Bigger Picture of Taking a Picture
The digital age has allowed photography to boom like never before. It’s a massive, commercial industry which is growing explosively…
Design Thinking: Making D-School the New B-School
One of the most exciting aspects of my job is interacting with design aspirants. I love their enthusiasm and their…
Why Good Design is Good Business
Thomas Watson Junior. This quote is often attributed to Thomas Watson Jr., the son of Thomas Watson, the founder of…
enquiry form