How to Become an Interior Decorator: The Complete Guide 

Have you binge-watched your favorite home decor show and thought, “How can I become an interior decorator?”. If you have a knack for enhancing the functionality, layout, and aesthetics of interior spaces, this could be a rewarding career that lets you use your creative talents.

Professional interior decorators go beyond furnishings and aesthetics. They excel in understanding their clients’ lifestyles, needs, and preferences. Ultimately, they play a vital role in creating and enhancing the spaces where we live and work.

Whether you’re eager to launch a business or embark on a new career path, this guide provides all the essentials on how to become an interior decorator to equip you for success in this dynamic field.

Interior Decorator vs. Interior Designer

First, let’s get clear on the difference between an interior decorator vs interior designer since they are often confused as the same thing.

Interior designers focus on spatial planning, which can include drafting floor plans for renovating and building structures from the ground up. They also work closely with architects and contractors to produce designs. Thus, they require formal education, training, and usually an apprenticeship.

Interior decorators focus more on the superficial layers of an interior and how to enhance its appearance and overall enjoyment. They work with their clients to select color palettes, furniture, and other accessories to develop a stylish and cohesive looking space. Unlike designers, this doesn’t typically include any structural components.

How to Become an Interior Decorator without a Degree

Since a college degree and certificate are not mandatory for interior decorating, you may be wondering how to become an interior decorator without a degree. Even without formal education, there are a variety of courses online – including free interior decorating courses – that you can take to learn the fundamentals of color, spatial planning, room layouts, and more. Having some ​​courses under your belt is an excellent way to authenticate your skills.

But hands-on experience and a well-curated portfolio are what truly matter. 

To begin, consider offering interior decorating services for free to family and friends to hone your skillset and develop your portfolio. You could also practice in your own home.

Get Started with HomeByMe: Step-by-Step Tutorials

Explore our Tutorials for more step-by-step guides on using HomeByMe. Our free interior design software offers multiple ways to begin your project. Start by exploring our introductory tutorials, which guide you through the first steps of any interior design project. To further enhance your skills and gain full control of your design projects, delve into our advanced tutorials covering the catalog, special products, and image renderings. If you have any questions about account settings, our tutorials provide solutions to help you troubleshoot effectively.

HomeByMe Guides and Resources

The HomeByMe Guide and Magazine provide a comprehensive resource for aspiring interior decorators. They offer insights into the latest design trends, expert tips, and inspiring case studies to help you refine your skills and become a professional in the field.

Interior design Guides

Our 3D Design Guide includes definitions, step-by-step instructions for using the HomeByMe planner, and design tips for various interior styles and room types, ensuring you can handle any project with confidence. Additionally, our Interior Design Guide supports you throughout your career journey, offering guidance at every stage.

HomeByMe Decor Magazine

Stay ahead of the curve with our Decor Magazine, where you can explore the newest trends and learn how to master them.

The YouTube channel

The HomeByMe YouTube channel is packed with video content, including video tutorials, decorating trends and styles decoded by our ambassadors.

How to Become an Interior Decorator

To become an interior decorator, a formal education isn’t required. Although many professionals choose to pursue a college degree in a related field or obtain certification from accredited organizations like Certified Interior Decorators International (CID), mastering the art of interior decorating doesn’t necessarily require a formal degree.

Below are key steps that will help you get started:

1. Gain Experience

Mastering the art of interior decorating is best achieved by working directly with seasoned experts. Interning or apprenticing with experienced decorators offers hands-on experience, industry insights, and personalized guidance.

Getting your foot in the door is a crucial first step, opening up opportunities and setting you on the path to a successful, full-time career in interior decorating.

2. Define Your Niche

Defining a niche in interior decorating can significantly elevate your career by distinguishing you from the competition. Specializing in a particular style, such as minimalist, bohemian, or industrial – or focusing on specific spaces like small apartments, luxury homes, or office environments, helps you attract clients seeking your unique expertise.

3. Build a Portfolio

Having a portfolio is essential for all interior decorators. It should showcase your best work to convince prospective clients of your value. You can build your portfolio online and maintain a physical version.

Don’t have any projects to showcase yet? You can still build an impressive portfolio using a free interior design room planner like HomeByMe to show your ideas with realistic 3D renderings.

4. Develop a Network within the Field

As an interior decorator, projects won’t simply be handed to you. In most cases, even with a degree, you’ll need to hustle to find your own clients. Dedicate time and effort to cultivating relationships with homeowners, other decorators, and suppliers.

What Skills Do You Need to Be An Interior Decorator

To excel in this creative profession, you need to possess certain skills as an interior decorator, including:

• Creativity and a sense of aesthetics are fundamental interior decorating skills. You need a sharp eye to design harmonious spaces that meet the occupants’ needs.
• Knowledge of materials and colors must be well understood to combine different elements, colors, and characteristics in an appealing way that accomplishes the right look and ambiance.
• Mastery of digital design tools such as HomeByMe, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Photoshop are fundamental for producing professional floor plans and detailed 3D renderings today.

Understanding an Interior Decorator Salary

Factors such as experience, location, and types of services provided can influence an interior decorator salary. According to the US Bureau Of Labor Statistics, on average, interior decorators in the United States earn between $33,000 and $92,000 annually in 2023. Those with extensive experience or successful independent practices often earn more.

Decorators in metropolitan areas generally earn higher wages due to greater demand and higher living costs. Specializing in high-end or niche markets can further enhance earning potential.

For more detailed information on interior decorator salaries, visit PayScale’s Interior Decorator Salary Page.

Launching Your Interior Decorating Services

Launching a successful interior decorating services business begins with a solid business plan. This foundational document should outline your vision, target market, and financial projections, guiding your path to profitability.

Start by conducting thorough market research to understand your niche and competition. Clearly defining your unique value proposition will help you stand out and attract clients.

Next, focus on the logistical aspects of your business plan. Outline your service offerings, pricing strategy, and initial marketing approach to reach potential clients. Detail your operational plan and costs, including necessary licenses, permits, and insurance.

As you prepare to launch your interior decorating services, a comprehensive business plan will not only attract investors or loans if needed but also provide a clear roadmap, ensuring a structured and successful start to your new venture.

Showcase Your Talent with Free Interior Decorator Software

Free interior decorator software is an indispensable asset for your business toolkit. This enables you to generate realistic project renderings, offering clients a visual representation of your vision and creativity. Share these compelling visuals on your social media platforms and website to expand your audience and effectively highlight your design prowess.

Need some ideas? Find inspiration from others’ creative interior designs on our HomeByMe inspiration page.

How to Find Your First Client

Securing your first client requires 3 crucial strategies:

1. Build Social Networks

Building a robust social network is vital for enhancing an interior decorator’s business. Engage actively in online design communities and local events to connect with potential clients and professionals in complementary fields. Utilize social media platforms to showcase your portfolio, establish credibility in the industry and even get referrals.

2. Participate in Events and Trade Fairs

Engage with people by participating in events and trade fairs. Set up a booth to present your portfolio effectively and connect directly with prospective clients. These gatherings provide valuable opportunities to gain exposure for your work and gather leads for future projects.

3. Create Engagement

Attract clients by hosting workshops, offering free consultations, or starting an interior decorating blog. To keep your audience engaged, create excitement with your posts by announcing collaborations, hosting competitions, and sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your projects. Engaging content and interactive experiences build interest and trust.

Other Key Insights

• How to set fees
• How to create a budget
• How to pitch