Is now the time to Re-train as an Interior Designer?

KLC News • Jan 2010

In the current economic climate when the more established and traditional career routes offer less security than before, many people are seeing this as the ideal opportunity to make a career change.  People are re-evaluating their lives and placing particular emphasis on the quality of life, often recognising that they would like to do something more creative.  As a result, careers such as interior design are becoming increasingly popular.

Not everyone can leave employment to study full-time and flexibility in the delivery of training is now of paramount importance to people looking to re-train.  Part-time study, distance learning and blended learning (combining college study, distance learning and on-line tutorials) are all becoming much in demand options, so that students can juggle work and family commitments whilst studying for a new career.

Photos from last years student graduate at the RIBA

Understandably if somebody is going to invest the time and funds in re-training, a vital factor is being able to find employment at the end of a course.  An outstanding employment record and a dedicated careers service to help students find work on graduation should be key requirements in choosing any college.  

Even with part-time study a college is going to become a considerable part of your life, so the character of a college, its location, facilities and the quality of its teaching (and administrative) staff should all be examined closely.  Bluntly, is it a professional and creative environment that is going to really inspire you?

But, the final and most important factor is assessing whether interior design is going to be the right career path for you.  Creative flair is the obvious requirement, but designers also need first-rate organisational and  people skills that can then be combined with a sound practical training in all aspects of interior design.   Ultimately it is a subject that demands passion and you must have a love of interiors – if you do, then now may just be the time to make that change…

Will Gibbs, Managing Director KLC