Log InSign Up

19 Senior Interior Designer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

It's important to prepare for an interview in order to improve your chances of getting the job. Researching questions beforehand can help you give better answers during the interview. Most interviews will include questions about your personality, qualifications, experience and how well you would fit the job. In this article, we review examples of various senior interior designer interview questions and sample answers to some of the most common questions.

Senior Interior Designer Resume ExampleUse this template

or download as PDF

Common Senior Interior Designer Interview Questions

How do you approach designing for a space?

Asking how the designer approaches designing for a space helps the interviewer understand the designer's process and how they would approach designing a space for their specific needs. It also allows the interviewer to gauge the designer's creativity, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the client's needs.

Example: “There are a few things to consider when designing for a space. The first is the function of the space. What will it be used for? How many people will be using it? What are their needs? Once you have a good understanding of the function of the space, you can start to think about the layout and flow. How do you want people to move through the space? What kind of furniture and fixtures will you need? And finally, what kind of atmosphere do you want to create? What kind of feeling do you want people to have when they're in the space?”

How do you think about functionality when designing a space?

The interviewer is trying to gauge the designer's understanding of how important functionality is when designing a space. It is important because the space needs to be functional for the people who will be using it.

Example: “When thinking about functionality in design, I consider how the space will be used and how people will move through it. I think about traffic patterns, circulation, and how furniture and fixtures can best be arranged to accommodate the intended use of the space. I also consider things like acoustics, lighting, and thermal comfort to ensure that the space is comfortable and functional for its users.”

What are your thoughts on incorporating art into interior design?

An interviewer might ask "What are your thoughts on incorporating art into interior design?" to a Senior Interior Designer because they want to know if the designer is open to using art in their designs, and if they think it is important. It is important to incorporate art into interior design because it can add interest and personality to a space. Art can also be used to tie together different elements in a room, or to make a statement.

Example: “There are a few schools of thought when it comes to incorporating art into interior design. Some designers believe that art should be used sparingly, as an accent piece or focal point, while others believe that art should be integrated throughout the design of the space. Personally, I believe that art should be used in a way that enhances the overall design of the space and complements the other elements within it.

When used correctly, art can add an extra layer of interest and depth to a space. It can also help to tie together disparate elements and create a more cohesive overall look. In my opinion, the key is to use art in a way that makes sense for the specific space and its occupants. For example, if you are designing a home for a family with young children, you might want to incorporate playful artwork into the design to reflect the energy and spirit of the household. Alternatively, if you are designing a more formal space, you might want to choose artwork that is more subdued and elegant.

Ultimately, it is up to the designer to decide how much or how little art to use in a space. The important thing is to use it in a way that enhances the overall design and creates an inviting and comfortable environment for those who will be using the”

How do you think about color when designing a space?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask a senior interior designer how they think about color when designing a space. One reason is that color can have a big impact on the overall feel of a space, so it's important to choose colors that will create the desired atmosphere. Another reason is that color can be used to highlight certain features or create visual interest. Therefore, it's important to think about how colors will interact with each other and with the other elements in the space.

Example: “Color is one of the most important elements in interior design. It can set the mood and atmosphere of a space, and it can also be used to highlight certain features or create a focal point. When choosing colors for a space, I always consider the overall feel that I want to create and then select shades that will compliment each other. I also keep in mind the existing color palette of the space and try to work within that.”

What are your thoughts on furniture selection for a space?

It is important to ask this question to a Senior Interior Designer because it allows the interviewer to gauge the designer's level of experience and expertise in furniture selection. This question also allows the interviewer to understand the designer's process for selecting furniture for a space, which can be helpful in determining if they are a good fit for the project.

Example: “There are many factors to consider when selecting furniture for a space, such as the overall style of the room, the function of the furniture, and the budget. It is important to select pieces that complement the existing décor and fit the intended purpose of the room. For example, a dining room table would not be appropriate in a home office, and an office chair would not be comfortable in a living room. It is also important to consider the scale of the furniture in relation to the size of the room and the other furnishings. Oversized furniture can make a small space feel cramped, while too-small pieces can look lost in a large room. Furniture selection is an important part of creating a beautiful and functional space.”

How do you approach designing for different types of spaces?

An interviewer would ask "How do you approach designing for different types of spaces?" to a/an Senior Interior Designer to gain an understanding of how the designer plans and creates interior spaces that meet the specific needs of the client. It is important for the interviewer to understand the designer's process for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces.

Example: “There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the approach to designing for different types of spaces will vary depending on the specific space and the designer's own personal style. However, some tips on how to approach designing for different types of spaces include considering the function of the space and who will be using it, understanding the architectural features of the space, and using a variety of design elements to create a cohesive design.”

What are your thoughts on using different materials in interior design?

Interior designers must be familiar with a variety of materials used in construction and decoration, in order to make informed recommendations to clients. The interviewer is gauging the candidate's knowledge of materials and their ability to think creatively about how they can be used in interior design. This question also allows the interviewer to assess the candidate's problem-solving skills and their ability to think outside the box.

Example: “There are a few things to consider when using different materials in interior design. The first is the overall aesthetic you are trying to achieve. Different materials can create different feels, so it is important to choose materials that will work together to create the desired effect. The second is functionality. Some materials are better suited for certain purposes than others. For example, if you need a material that is durable and easy to clean, you will want to avoid delicate or porous materials. The third consideration is cost. Different materials can vary widely in price, so it is important to choose materials that fit your budget.

In general, I think using different materials in interior design can be a great way to add interest and variety to a space. However, it is important to carefully consider the aesthetics, functionality, and cost of each material before making any decisions.”

How do you think about lighting when designing a space?

Lighting is an important aspect of interior design because it can impact the mood and ambiance of a space. It can also be used to highlight certain features or create a focal point in a room.

Example: “Lighting is one of the most important aspects of interior design. It can create different moods and atmospheres, and it can also be used to highlight certain features or architectural details. When designing a space, I always think about how the lighting will impact the overall feel of the room. I consider things like the type of light fixtures to use, where to place them, and how to control the light levels. I also think about natural lighting and how it can be used to create a specific ambiance.”

What are your thoughts on accessorizing a space?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a senior interior designer. One reason is to gauge the designer's creativity and ability to think outside the box when it comes to designing a space. Another reason might be to see if the designer is familiar with different styles of decorating and how to incorporate accessories into a space. It is also important to be able to answer this question in detail because it shows that you are knowledgeable about the subject and are able to provide thoughtful, well-reasoned answers.

Example: “There are a few things to keep in mind when accessorizing a space:

1. Make sure the accessories you choose complement the style of the room.

2. Use accessories to add color, texture, and interest to the room.

3. Don't go overboard with accessories - less is often more.

4. Choose quality over quantity - it's better to have a few well-chosen pieces than a bunch of cheap knick-knacks.”

How do you think about scale when designing a space?

An interviewer would ask "How do you think about scale when designing a space?" to a/an Senior Interior Designer because it is important to consider the scale of a space when designing it. The scale of a space can impact the overall look and feel of the space, and it is important to take into consideration how people will move through and use the space.

Example: “When thinking about scale in design, it is important to consider the proportion of the elements in a space in relation to each other and to the overall size of the room. For example, if you are designing a small room, you will want to use furniture and décor that is in proportion to the space so that the room does not feel cramped. On the other hand, if you are designing a large room, you can use larger pieces of furniture and décor to fill the space and make it feel more inviting.”

How do you approach designing for different budgets?

An interviewer would ask "How do you approach designing for different budgets?" to a Senior Interior Designer because it is important to know how the designer would approach a project if the budget is different than what was originally planned. It is important to know how the designer would handle a situation where the budget is tight and they need to find ways to save money.

Example: “There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the approach to designing for different budgets will vary depending on the specific project and client. However, some tips on how to approach designing for different budgets may include being flexible with materials and finishes, being willing to compromise on certain design elements, and being able to work within the constraints of the budget.”

How do you think about balancing form and function when designing a space?

One reason an interviewer might ask "How do you think about balancing form and function when designing a space?" to a senior interior designer is to gauge the designer's ability to create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical. It is important for an interior designer to be able to strike a balance between form and function because a space that is too focused on one or the other can be unsuccessful. For example, a space that is all function and no form may be very practical but not very inviting, while a space that is all form and no function may be beautiful but impractical. A successful interior designer must be able to create a space that strikes a balance between these two elements.

Example: “There are a few things to consider when thinking about how to balance form and function in interior design. The first is to think about the purpose of the space. What activities will take place there? How many people will be using it? Once you have a good understanding of the function of the space, you can start to think about how to best design it to meet those needs.

It's important to remember that form should always follow function. That means that the design of the space should be based on how it will be used, not the other way around. With that in mind, you can start to play around with different layouts and designs that will work best for the space.

One way to strike a balance between form and function is to use furniture and décor that are both stylish and functional. For example, if you're designing a home office, you might want to choose a desk that is both aesthetically pleasing and has plenty of storage space. Or, if you're designing a living room, you might want to choose furniture that is comfortable and inviting but also easy to clean.

Another way to balance form and function is through the use of color and lighting. You can use light colors to make a space feel more open and air”

What are your thoughts on incorporating technology into interior design?

Incorporating technology into interior design is becoming increasingly popular as technology advances. Many designers believe that incorporating technology can make a space more functional and efficient. Additionally, technology can add a unique element to a space that can make it more interesting and stylish.

Example: “There is no doubt that technology has had a huge impact on interior design. In fact, it has completely changed the way we approach design and decoration. From 3D rendering and virtual reality to smart home technology, there are endless possibilities when it comes to incorporating technology into your interior design.

One of the biggest advantages of using technology in interior design is that it allows you to create a completely customized and unique space. With 3D rendering, for example, you can create a realistic representation of your proposed design before even starting the project. This means that you can make changes and adjustments until you are completely happy with the results – something that would be much more difficult (and expensive) to do without technology.

Another big benefit of using technology in interior design is that it can make the design process much easier and more efficient. For example, if you are working with a client who lives in another city or country, you can use virtual reality to give them a tour of their completed project – no need for costly and time-consuming travel. Similarly, smart home technology can be used to control everything from lighting and temperature to security and entertainment systems, making life much easier for both you and your clients.

So, overall, there are many positive reasons to”

How do you approach designing for sustainability?

The interviewer is likely interested in knowing how the designer plans to create sustainable designs that will stand the test of time. This is important because sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers and businesses alike. As a result, it is important for designers to be able to create sustainable designs that will meet the needs of their clients.

Example: “When it comes to sustainability, there are a number of different approaches that can be taken. For me, the most important thing is to ensure that the design is energy efficient and uses materials that are environmentally friendly. This means using products that have low VOC emissions, using recycled materials where possible, and incorporating features such as solar panels and green roofs. It is also important to consider the lifecycle of a product when designing for sustainability – for example, using products that can be easily repaired or recycled at the end of their life.”

How do you think about the user experience when designing a space?

An interviewer would ask "How do you think about the user experience when designing a space?" to a Senior Interior Designer to gain insight into how the designer takes the needs of the user into consideration when creating a space. It is important for designers to create spaces that are comfortable and functional for the people who will be using them, and this question allows the interviewer to gauge whether or not the designer is taking this into consideration.

Example: “The user experience is always important when designing a space. I think about how people will move through the space and what they will be doing in each area. I also think about how the space will feel and how it can be used to create the desired atmosphere.”

What are your thoughts on trendspotting in interior design?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a senior interior designer. Firstly, they may be trying to gauge the designer's level of experience and expertise in the field. Secondly, they may be interested in the designer's thoughts on how to spot trends in interior design. This is important because it can help the interviewer to understand the designer's process and approach to their work. Finally, the interviewer may simply be trying to start a conversation about a topic that is relevant to the interior design industry.

Example: “There are a few schools of thought when it comes to trendspotting in interior design. Some designers believe that it is important to stay on top of trends in order to be able to create rooms that are both stylish and relevant. Others believe that trends are overrated and that it is more important to focus on creating timeless designs that will stand the test of time.

Personally, I believe that there is value in both approaches. I think it is important to be aware of what is currently popular in the world of interior design, as this can help you to create rooms that feel fresh and current. However, I also believe that it is just as important to create designs that are classic and timeless. After all, the trendiest room today will likely be outdated in a few years time!”

How do you approach custom design work?

This question is important because it allows the interviewer to gauge the Senior Interior Designer's design process and see if it is compatible with the company's design philosophy. It also allows the interviewer to see how the Senior Interior Designer handles custom design requests and if they are able to meet deadlines and budget restrictions.

Example: “The first step is to understand the client’s needs and wants. This can be done through a variety of means, such as interviews, questionnaires, and observations. Once the designer has a good understanding of the client’s needs, they can begin to generate ideas and concepts for the space.

The next step is to develop these concepts into more detailed plans. This may involve creating sketches, floor plans, elevations, and 3D renderings. The goal at this stage is to create a plan that meets the client’s needs and fits within their budget.

Once the plans are finalized, the designer can begin sourcing materials and furniture. They will also work with contractors and other professionals to ensure that the space is built according to their plans. Throughout this process, the designer will remain in close communication with the client to ensure that they are happy with the progress of the project.”

What are your thoughts on collaborating with other designers on a project?

There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a Senior Interior Designer. First, it allows the interviewer to gauge the Senior Interior Designer's level of experience with collaborating with other designers on a project. This is important because it can give the interviewer insight into how the Senior Interior Designer would work on a team and whether they would be able to effectively communicate and collaborate with other designers. Second, the question allows the interviewer to assess the Senior Interior Designer's ability to think critically about the design process and to provide thoughtful insights about how to best collaborate with other designers. This is important because it shows that the Senior Interior Designer is able to reflect on their own work and to provide constructive feedback to others. Finally, this question allows the interviewer to get a sense of the Senior Interior Designer's personal opinion about collaboration with other designers. This is important because it can give the interviewer insight into the Senior Interior Designer's work style and whether they would be a good fit for the team.

Example: “I believe that collaboration is key in any design project in order to create a successful and cohesive end result. By working with other designers, we are able to bring a variety of perspectives and ideas to the table which can only make the final product better. Additionally, it is important to have a good working relationship with the other designers on the team in order to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal.”

How do you approach project management for an interior design project?

An interviewer would ask "How do you approach project management for an interior design project?" to a Senior Interior Designer to gain insight into their design process and how they manage projects. This is important because it allows the interviewer to gauge the designer's level of experience and expertise. Additionally, it helps to identify any potential areas of improvement for the designer.

Example: “My approach to project management for an interior design project begins with understanding the client’s needs and objectives. I then develop a project plan that outlines the scope of work, timeline, and budget. I also create a schedule of milestones and deliverables to keep the project on track. Throughout the project, I regularly communicate with the client and team members to ensure everyone is on the same page. I also make sure to document all decisions made during the project so that we can refer back to them later. Finally, I conduct a post-project evaluation to identify any lessons learned and areas for improvement.”

Related Interview Questions