subject: Interior Design Schools Offer Students Direct Career Path [print this page] The Council for Interior Design Accreditation defines an accredited program as one that has voluntarily submitted their program to be examined by the Council, a group made up of design professionals. The Council's accreditation standards promise students that any school that has been accredited will provide the student with the best possible education recognized by the profession. The Accreditation Commission meets twice a year and updates its list of certified institutions. There are accredited schools all across the United States and Canada and they are listed on the Council's website.
Accredited interior design schools are the best places for an education in the field of interior design. So, what do they teach there? Why does anyone need an education to decorate? Anyone who wants to be a designer that would need to ask these questions probably needs the benefit of an education most of all. Interior design programs teach many, many levels of business, not only aspects relating to design.
Interior design schools do teach students to research, plan and execute their client's design goals and needs. Students in an interior design program are able to learn how and where to find materials necessary for their client from furniture coverings to cafe curtains. Classes also teach aspiring designers how to sketch their ideas in 2 and 3 dimensions, as well as use computer programs to do these jobs online.
There are also classes that detail the importance of color in a designer's work. It is important to know how and when to design a space with the proper concept in mind. There are many considerations involved when choosing the appropriate colors, materials and finishes based on a client's wishes, to meet proper mood of a space, and finally to be the most maintenance friendly application possible.
There will also be direction for students in the choices of furniture and fixtures for a client. There will be lessons in layout design, as well as specifications and sketches, product descriptions and contract negotiations, all of which must be maneuvered through when purchasing or procuring furnishings for a client.
The ability to prepare contracts in construction situations, where strict regional building and fire codes must be adhered to, as well as any jurisdictional laws that must be obeyed. A designer must be aware of these restrictions and make sure that every design is withing the stated regulations and guidelines within an area.
Interior design schools provide a comprehensive business education for anyone who would like to be a member of the interior design profession. To find the right school for you, or for a list of schools to research in your area, the Internet can provide invaluable resources. There are numerous societies related to the field of interior design that are dedicated to educating professional designers.