Since we are all job hunting and moving on to our professional careers, here are some tips to being a successful interior designer (most of us may already be doing some of these things!)
1. Start young and see what excites you
2. Believe in yourself
3. Practice your maths, it't not all choosing lovely curtains
4. Consider an internship
5. Don't blow the budget
6. Be brave
7. Don't aim for perfection
8. Look for inspiration in everything and get to know your clients
9. Take your time with color and lighting
10. Be empathetic and think about how a room makes you feel.
I can definitely relate to number three about practicing your maths. Just today I was trying to do some calculations about a round staircase I am making in one of my designs. It reminded me about how important some of these math skills are, even though we thought we would never have to use them outside of class. There are some times when I wish I had paid more attention in those classes!
ReplyDelete:-)
DeleteI feel that the points your made are very relevant and insightful. I like point number 7 about not aiming for perfection. In our field I feel that a lot try to strive for perfection and it's something that one shouldn't focus on. Also, agree with point number 2. You have to believe in yourself and be confident!
ReplyDeleteI like that it says believe in yourself! It's easy to get discouraged in the job hunt, it's important to keep a good attitude.
ReplyDeleteI love your first point - see what excites you. There is nothing wrong with challenging the norm and even challenging the industry. As interior designers we are taught a set of skills which are adaptable and give us the opportunity to apply ourselves outside of our industry - you just have to search for those jobs.
ReplyDeleteAdaptability is a huge skill you all have mastered!
DeleteI think being empathetic is very important. When designing for a client you have to put yourself in your client's shoes; understand how they react to the space. Being able to express ourselves to the client, how the space makes us feel, is also equally important. When talking through why a color, for example, makes me feel calm or why a texture makes the room feel cozy, the client can better understand pros and cons of choices.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Laura. Empathy is at the core of good design.
DeleteGreat post Louise, it is very relevant to where we all are right now. I think that believing in yourself is very important. As young designers it is easy to get bogged down by disappointment and often times, we don't get exactly what we are looking for in a job. However, it is important to keep in mind that we are working towards something greater, and that eventually we will achieve that success.
ReplyDeleteLove this! Especially the one relating to perfection. Sometimes I find myself wasting too much time being a perfectionist and not focusing on the details that really matter! Great advice.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the inspiration!
ReplyDeleteYou can't know what you want to do until you try it - don't be afraid to try something new - it could end up being your passion!