Expert views on how to master interior designing

It sure is daunting when you are just starting as an interior designer, however, don’t be discouraged. With dedication, perseverance and consistency, anything can be achieved. As a student, it is very important to build a portfolio which speaks of your talent and the work you may have done previously. This could be an internship at an agency or a company where you may have had the opportunity to learn project management and client servicing skills. Simultaneously, you must be able to focus on your niche and build a unique style around it. This can be advantageous as you will stand out from the rest and could be a direct promotion of your work. We understand – all of this may seem extremely overwhelming and scary, especially if you are just starting!

Capital Education has been an education hub for interior design for over 22 years. With every passing batch, we see many students ask some vital questions and hence, this blog will focus on three important questions that most students ask.  

How can students build an interior design portfolio?

Yes, it is true that as you may have just started, there is immense pressure to get into the line of projects to showcase them in your portfolio as it often assumed that you may not get hired or find clients if not for your portfolio. However, it is a myth. Yes, a portfolio is very important but that doesn’t solely decide your employment journey. If you haven’t bagged any internship or some potential clients, it is advisable to look into creating mood boards that cover diverse themes, style, yet having a common uniqueness associated with it. With every industry rapidly advancing towards digitization, you must look into creating digital designs, 2D visualizations, floor plan drawings and 3D renders.

What new interior designers must know?

One thing you must know that as much as experience matters, education and laying a strong foundation is equally pivotal. Also, don’t try and go out in your way. Before venturing into your interior design agency, it is always better to work in a studio or another reputed company as there is so much to learn from real studio work. It is likely you may make plenty of mistakes in the beginning, but isn’t that how everyone begins to learn? Additionally, it is important to ask questions or for help when you are beginning to struggle at any particular task. This is better as you will be out of your comfort zone and ready to learn. Lastly, you must know that creating designs can be quite a time-consuming process. Hence, don’t underestimate that especially when you are dealing with technical CAD drawings or other contract specifications.

Should new interior designers immediately focus on their niche?

Yes, it is important to have your style, aesthetics and designs that are particularly passionate about. Having said that, immediately venturing into a particular area of expertise may not be the wisest thing to do; unless you are extremely certain about it. The best thing would be to immerse yourself in your area of interest, research and learn as much as you can. Clients are often attracted to designers who are passionate about their niche and are prepared to take the risks associated with it. Also, remember, not all clients will be able to resonate with your vision as design is quite a subjective topic. However, the learning curve never ends. Always, seek yourself as a learner and be opening to grasping as much knowledge and information as you can.

Capital Education offers a Professional Diploma in Interior Design, in exclusive partnership with the London College of Arts. With 22 years of experience in the field of education and winning 26 design awards, graduates receive both local and international diplomas, which are recognised worldwide. Endorsed by Qualifi, this course can now be studied with online/on-campus modes along with choosing your preferred language from English or Arabic to complete the course. Graduates of the Professional Diploma in Interior Design from the London College of Arts may move into the Advanced Diploma in Interior Design.

To learn more about our programs, intakes and admissions, drop an email at hello@capital.ac.ae or call us at 9714 397 0095.