What does an Interior Design Assistant do?
Published 4 min read
An interior design assistant helps with the day-to-day tasks of running an interior design business. This can include anything from meeting with clients and helping to choose fabrics and finishes, to managing orders and deliveries, to keeping the office organized. An assistant may also be responsible for creating marketing materials, such as website content or social media posts.
Interior Design Assistant job duties include:
- Assist interior designers in selecting finishes for projects
- Help clients select furniture, fabrics, and lighting
- Develop design concepts and presentations
- Create floor plans and elevations
- Source products and materials
- Prepare construction documents
- Manage project budgets and schedules
- Coordinate with contractors and other professionals
- Perform on-site visits during construction
- Handle administrative tasks, such as ordering samples
Interior Design Assistant Job Requirements
Interior design assistants typically need at least an Associate's degree in interior design or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a Bachelor's degree program. Certification is not always required, but it may give job seekers a competitive edge. Many interior design assistants gain experience through internships or working with a more experienced designer. Strong computer skills, creativity, and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.
Interior Design Assistant Skills
- Communication
- Organization
- Writing
- Research
- Photoshop
- SketchUp
- InDesign
- Illustrator
- Space Planning
- Furniture Selection
- Color Schemes
- Fabric Selection
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How to become an Interior Design Assistant
There are many ways to become an interior design assistant. One way is to get a degree in interior design from an accredited college or university. Many colleges and universities offer two- or four-year degree programs in interior design.
After completing a degree program, the next step is to find an entry-level position with an interior design firm. Many firms require their assistants to have a minimum of an Associate’s degree in interior design, although some may prefer candidates with a Bachelor’s degree. Once hired, assistants typically work under the supervision of a senior designer and help with various tasks such as space planning, furniture selection, and color schemes.
Another way to become an interior design assistant is to complete a certificate program in interior design. These programs typically take one year or less to complete and can be found at community colleges and vocational schools. Some certificate programs may require students to have completed some college coursework prior to admission.
Once you have completed a certificate program, you can start your job search by contacting local interior design firms or searching online job boards. Many entry-level positions will require you to have basic computer skills and knowledge of design software such as AutoCAD or SketchUp. With experience, you may eventually be promoted to a lead designer position or start your own interior design business.
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