Seven Steps to Becoming a Master Interior Designer

Hi Mr. Saikam,

Your question about becoming a perfect interior designer is intriguing, but there are no set steps that guarantee perfection. What makes a designer 'perfect' is largely subjective and dependent on experience and experimentation. However, there are certainly steps you can follow to become a skilled and capable interior designer. Let's dive into these seven key steps to mastering the craft of interior design.

Ask Yourself the Right Questions

Unlike when working with a client, as the designer and the client, you must still start by defining your end goal. Begin by asking yourself what the primary function of the room will be, and consider the space's best use. Consider practicality as well as aesthetics. Write down your vision for the room, assess what you already have, and create a realistic budget. Involve your family members and seek their input to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Have a Feeling in Mind

Interior design is not just about appearance; it should evoke the right emotions. Whether you're aiming for a warm, welcoming vibe in a bedroom or a light, airy feel in a kitchen, the space should inspire a specific mood. This will guide your overall plan for decor. If you notice mid-design that something is off, reassess and make adjustments until the room feels just right.

Dream Sketch Decide

Even on a budget, you can dream big! Look for inspiration on design websites or social media platforms like Pinterest. Collect ideas and compile a dream board to prioritize items you can splurge on, versus those you will creatively scale down. Don't let practicality stifle your creativity; your dreams could lead to some remarkably inspiring outcomes.

Start Hard

While painting walls or removing carpets might not be the most glamorous aspects of redecorating, doing these larger projects first can streamline the process. These tasks set the tone for the rest of the space, so executing them carefully is crucial. By tackling the less glamorous tasks first, you create a sense of accomplishment and look forward to the glamorous aspects, such as curtains, end tables, and wall art.

Take a Risk

While you should maintain your core design aesthetic, don't hesitate to experiment and take some risks. Introduce a theme that significantly differs from the rest of the house or pick out bold accent pieces. Sometimes, getting another family member's input can yield exciting and unexpected results.

Mix Styles

Adhering to a single design aesthetic can be limiting. Embrace a fusion of styles that complement each other. For example, a living room that relies on natural lighting can successfully blend nautical and Moroccan styles. Combining classic with contemporary elements creates a sophisticated and livable space. You don't need to know all the official styles; as long as you like how items look together, it's worth pursuing.

Wait on the Little Details

Accessories and small details are often the most fun to choose, but it's crucial to delay decisions on these items until the bigger picture is clear. Prematurely choosing small decorative elements can lead to overspending and compromise the overall design. Only when you've made decisions about the furniture, walls, and flooring can you truly know what you want for lamps, window treatments, etc. Like the cherry on top of a sundae, these details add the finishing touch rather than being the main component.

Embarking on the journey of becoming a master interior designer involves a blend of creativity, practicality, and a deep understanding of client needs. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional.