Interior and spatial designer : Entry requirements

Entry to professional interior or spatial design usually requires a relevant degree, foundation degree or HND. The following subjects are preferred:

• spatial design;
• interior design;
• interior architecture;
• 3D design.

Degrees, foundation degrees or HNDs in architecture, furniture design, product design, textile design, graphic design or fine art may also be useful.

Entry without a degree or HND is possible for candidates with significant experience and creative flair.

Pre-entry postgraduate qualifications are not needed, but specialist courses do exist and may enable a move to interior/spatial design from another area of art and design. Taking a course in computer-aided design (CAD) or Photoshop may also be useful.

Voluntary or part-time work is usually necessary to gain prior experience if applications for full-time work are to be successful. Competition for work experience is strong so it is important to be proactive when looking for opportunities. Design directories, such as New Design Partners  and the Directory of Design Consultants , are useful for identifying design companies to target with a speculative CV or personal call.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• a high level of technical knowledge, including computer aided design (CAD) and model-making skills;
• good drawing skills, including perspective drawing and spatial awareness;
• creativity and imagination;
• communication skills, both written and verbal, to write briefs, promote and explain ideas, and build relationships with clients;
• an awareness of building and safety regulations;
• knowledge of the wider construction and design industries;
• project management skills, including the ability to work under pressure and to deadlines;
• attention to detail;
• organisational and creative problem-solving skills;
• good negotiating and management skills;
• teamworking, in order to work with a range of other professionals;
• a flexible attitude;
• business, finance and marketing skills.

Many courses provide students with the opportunity to showcase their work. However, as few graduates/diplomates are offered work from their degree shows, it is vital to network and take advantage of any opportunities that arise. Make as many contacts as possible during your studies and work experience, as they may be able to help get your career started.

Joining the Chartered Society of Designers (CSD) is a good way to meet and make contact with established designers. There are now many websites where candidates can showcase work to employers and potential clients.

The demand for good interior designers is steadily rising, although competition remains fierce. Selection is often based on a portfolio that shows your design talent as well as your capacity to get involved in a range of different projects. It is unusual for employers to offer traineeships, and speculative approaches are strongly advised.

Many designers take other jobs before getting design work. There is a large pool of talent to select from, and interior design can be seen as an attractive second career.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.