Career Options Available after Post-Graduation in Interior Design

From simple needs like “we need more space” to more complex ones like “we need an aesthetically pleasing and functional home that reflects who we are,” and everything in-between, an interior designer sets things straight for nervous homeowners. However, most people often associate this single role with the field of interior designing when it is vast and full of scope, especially for those with a PG degree.

There are several reasons to study postgraduate interior design, such as comprehensive, in-depth knowledge of the field, the right balance of theoretical and practical understanding, and a wider pool of career options.  

To PG holders in interior design, the following career paths are open.

1. Interior or Spatial Designer

The number one career choice open for post-graduates of interior design is that of an interior or spatial designer. Equipped with creative flair, technical know-how, and a sound understanding of how the design market functions, these professionals breathe life into dull spaces. They take client requirements into account and design a space that is high on aesthetic appeal and functionality. Interior or spatial designers work closely with architects, civil engineers, and construction labourers to carry out their job.

2. Wedding and Event Designer

A great event manager can make even the host feel like a guest. Be it a destination wedding or a large-scale corporate event, an event or wedding planner can ensure each is a grand one by taking care of everything, right from the big picture up to the minutest of details. As such, wedding or event planners are responsible for conducting client consultations to discuss their vision for the ‘big day,’ meeting with vendors such as photographers, caterers, invitation designers, etc. and negotiating contracts with each, arranging the necessary event supplies and making them readily available at the event venue, and more. 

The primary skills required for event or wedding designing are creative flair, technical expertise, exceptional communication skills, organisational, problem-solving, and time management abilities, and strong networking and negotiation skills. 

3. Visual Merchandiser

Before something arrests the heart, it must catch the eye; to this end, visual presentation is highly essential to drawing customers. And that is precisely what a visual merchandiser specialises in. These professionals are responsible for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of window displays, walkways, counters, and other in-store displays to attract customers into the interior and furnishing retail outlets. However, visual merchandisers need to also ensure that such strategies are employed to be in line with the store’s brand, products, and target market. The most important skills a visual merchandiser must possess are creative thinking, technical know-how of how space-maximisation works, strong interpersonal skills, and knowledge of the current trends in merchandising. 

4. Production Designer (Theatre/Film/TV)

Having a flair for visual arts, production designers are professionals who can easily be called a creative powerhouse. These individuals work on identifying the right design style for theatre sets, graphics, props, lighting, camera angles, costumes, etc. by coordinating with the director and producer. They will read scripts to identify the relevant visual style, plan and monitor design budget, liaise with the costume designer, photographer, lighting, and sound directors, among others. Such professionals must possess skills like sketching, knowledge of visual arts and production theories and processes, the ability to work smoothly on large projects, and analytical mind, etc.  

5. Furniture Designer

Besides the big picture, which is the look and functionality of the space itself, designers also need to be aware of the details – furniture, tapestry, etc. – and blend them harmoniously. This is because it is different kinds of furniture that give a space a defined look – minimalist, ornate, contemporary, Mediterranean, vintage, etc. However, an exclusive career option dealing with furniture placement and designing exist; that of a furniture designer. A furniture designer will style furniture based on a strong knowledge of design trends – this may be done via freehand drawing or digital drawing to create a blueprint and ensure that every item on the list can be procured in the most affordable and sustainable manner. 

To understand the ins-and-outs of architecture and interior designing, institutions like the reputed Pearl Academy offer comprehensive UG and PG courses. Young minds are educated to transform existing bland spaces into social, cultural, sustainable, and contemporary settings. 

Given the technological advancements and evolving customer tastes, the field of interior designing will continue to remain a dynamic one, offering opportunities as many as there are aspirants out there to grab them.