Do you find yourself scrolling through Pinterest, dreaming of transforming rooms, or mentally rearranging furniture wherever you go? Maybe you’ve thought, “I’d love to be an interior designer,” but then hesitation creeps in. Perhaps you think you need a fancy degree, years of schooling, or some innate, magical talent.
Well, here’s some good news: while becoming a licensed Interior Designer involves formal education and deals with the structure, safety, and function of spaces (often working alongside architects), the path to becoming an Interior Decorator or simply designing beautiful spaces for yourself and others is incredibly accessible!
Anyone Can Learn the Language of Design
At its heart, creating beautiful and functional interiors relies on understanding the fundamentals of design. Think of it like learning a language – once you know the basic grammar and vocabulary, you can start forming sentences and expressing yourself. It’s the same with design! Key concepts include:
Mastering these basics gives you the foundation to confidently tackle any room. You don’t necessarily need a four-year degree to start decorating or improving spaces; you need curiosity, a willingness to learn, and practice.
Books are a fantastic way to learn the principles and get inspired. Many successful designers and decorators recommend starting with the basics. Here are a few highly-regarded books perfect for beginners and those wanting to grasp the fundamentals:
The Interior Design Handbook by Frida Ramstedt: Often cited as a must-have, this book breaks down the fundamental principles and theories behind good design, explaining the why not just the what.
2. Styled: Secrets for Arranging Furniture, Art, and More by Emily Henderson
Styled: Secrets for Arranging Furniture, Art, and More by Emily Henderson: Great for learning how to pull a room together, find your personal style, and master the art of accessorizing.
3. Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave by Joanna Gaines
Home: The Foundations of Enduring Spaces by Ellen S. Fisher (New York School of Interior Design): A comprehensive guide delving into the design process, including space planning and understanding architectural elements.
4. Home: The Foundations of Enduring Spaces by Ellen S. Fisher
Home: The Foundations of Enduring Spaces by Ellen S. Fisher (New York School of Interior Design): A comprehensive guide delving into the design process, including space planning and understanding architectural elements.
5. The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book by Chris Grimley & Mimi Love
The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book by Chris Grimley & Mimi Love: While more technical, it’s an invaluable resource for understanding standards, materials, and the practical side of design execution.
6. The Color Scheme Bible by Anna Starmer
The Color Scheme Bible by Anna Starmer: An excellent resource dedicated solely to understanding and choosing color palettes effectively
Whether you dream of a full-blown career change or simply want to create spaces you adore, don’t let uncertainty stop you. Grab a book, start observing the spaces around you, and begin experimenting. The world of interior design and decoration is vast, exciting, and more accessible than you might think. Go for it!
Let’s Work!
