How to Become a Successful Interior Designer

In a recent article, we looked at how successful graphic designers began their careers and opened their own studios. In this article, we will talk about the interior designer profession, their responsibilities, and the specifics of their work. An interior designer is a specialist who creates functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Their work includes analyzing client needs, developing concepts, and designing interiors. Understanding current trends, materials, and technologies is key to success in this field. We'll share stories from professionals who will tell us about their journey into the world of interior design and the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this exciting profession.

Why is this important?

Get inspired at the start and understand that even great designers started small. Ilya Myuge worked 12-hour shifts for two years for 10,000 rubles a month. Now he runs his own architectural firm.
Have confidence when creating your own project. Natalia Preobrazhenskaya became a designer by opening a studio. Before that, she worked as a realtor. And Ilya Gulyants founded his company while still studying to become a designer.
Get valuable advice from a specialist who has achieved a lot in design. Tatyana Odintsova recommends sending photos of your projects to interior design magazines around the world and not being afraid to part with clients who are not on your radar. Four successful interior designers shared their personal stories. Their experience and professional achievements inspire many who strive to create unique and stylish spaces. Each of them followed their own path, overcoming challenges and finding their own style in the world of design. These stories highlight the importance of creativity, diligence, and a commitment to continuous learning in the interior design profession. Sharing experiences helps not only beginners but also experienced professionals find new ideas for their projects.

How did you start in the profession?

Ilya Muge

Founder of the architectural bureau FROM/FORM. This reputable company specializes in creating unique architectural solutions and interior design. The bureau actively implements innovative approaches and modern technologies in its projects, which allows them to stand out from other architectural studios. FROM/FORM strives for harmony between functionality and aesthetics, offering clients individual solutions that meet their needs and expectations.

I started working while in my third year of college. I found my first job through recommendations from friends – I got a job as an apprentice in the studio of an experienced architect. My duties included assembling models and drawing. Although I worked 12 hours a day and earned only ten thousand rubles a month, my main goal was to gain experience. I worked at this bureau for two years, which significantly developed my professional skills and gave me the opportunity to delve deeper into architectural design.

For a successful start to a career, it is important to create a high-quality resume and portfolio. It's equally important to listen to your own desires and preferences—you should look for a company that aligns with your values and style, not just a job for the paycheck. This will help achieve not only professional growth, but also personal satisfaction from work.

Natalia Preobrazhenskaya

Founder and chief designer of the studio "Cozy Apartment" specializes in creating comfortable and stylish interiors. With her help, clients can transform their living and working spaces, making them more functional and aesthetically pleasing. The studio offers unique solutions tailored to the individual preferences and needs of each client. The founder's experience and professionalism allow us to implement projects of any complexity, from small apartments to large-scale commercial projects.

My first education is in law. I decided to become an interior designer in 2003, when I was working in a real estate company. Observing sales, I noticed that buyers were choosing standard apartments that were simply concrete boxes. This realization prompted me to believe that I could create a more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable living space. My goal is to transform interiors, making them not only beautiful but also functional, which is important for people who strive for comfort in their homes.

I opened a studio under the brand "Cozy Apartment," registered the name, and attracted a team of professionals, including a 3D visualizer, an architect, and a designer. At the same time, I began training, combining my studies with practical work in the field of interior design.

My first project was a 140-square-meter apartment in a prestigious residential complex. To date, I have successfully completed more than three thousand projects.

Ilya Gulyants

Co-founder of the design studio El Born Studio. Our team specializes in creating unique and functional design solutions that help clients stand out in the market. We develop projects in various fields, including graphic design, web design, and mobile app interfaces. Our goal is to ensure high quality and originality in every project, allowing us to successfully realize our clients' ideas and needs. El Born Studio guarantees results and a professional approach to design.

I began receiving my first commissions while studying at the International School of Design. Together with architect Katya Alagich, we founded our own studio. Our first projects involved furniture design, and our first commission was a chest of drawers for our friends. Many of our first clients came to us through connections and recommendations from people close to us.

Our first apartment project was featured in the online version of ELLE Decoration magazine.

Tatyana Odintsova

Co-founder of the architectural bureau ARCH.BLACK, known for its innovative Architecture and design projects. ARCH.BLACK is passionate about creating unique spaces that combine functionality and aesthetics. We strive to integrate modern technologies and sustainable solutions into every project, allowing us to create buildings that are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. Our team consists of highly qualified specialists with international experience and a ready to implement projects of any complexity. ARCH.BLACK is synonymous with quality and creativity in the world of architecture.

I began taking on my first small commissions during my third and fourth years at the academy. Friends opening yoga studios and small cafes turned to me for help. They needed professional support, not full-fledged projects. These commissions allowed me to gain practical experience and build a starting portfolio.

After defending my diploma, my friend Anna Sysoeva, with whom we later founded ARCH.BLACK, and I began working at an architectural firm. Here, we mastered 3D design, as our university's teaching in this field was not high-quality. We acquired the necessary skills by immersing ourselves in real projects and practical work. This experience laid the foundation for our future in architecture and design.

We spent a full year at our architectural firm, which became an important step in developing our professional skills. Modern education allows young designers to skip the traditional internship route and immediately begin working independently. A portfolio developed during training becomes a significant advantage and can be actively published on social media, which helps attract first clients.

To successfully start in design, you need to believe in yourself and overcome your fears. Young designers often doubt their abilities, but it's important to realize that the work process provides excellent opportunities for learning and growth. I've been designing for 13 years, and I discover something new every day. Continuous development and the desire for self-improvement play a key role in a designer's career.

Why does a designer need higher education?

I received an education in the field of architecture and management I studied construction at the College of Architecture and then at the Moscow State University of Civil Engineering. My education provided me with theoretical knowledge that formed the foundation for my further professional development. Despite using textbooks from the 1980s, the knowledge I gained allows me to integrate information about modern technologies. A key aspect I mastered at university is the ability to effectively communicate with people and defend my ideas and projects. These skills are essential in any field and contribute to successful interactions and the promotion of one's own initiatives. Modern students now have the unique opportunity to study online and gain practical experience from professional designers. This opens new horizons for skill development and a deeper understanding of the profession, allowing you to effectively combine theory and practice. Online learning provides flexibility and access to quality educational resources, which contributes to the formation of competitive specialists in the field of design.

I began my education with courses, including the Moscow Architectural Institute, and then completed my education at the Faculty of Fine Arts of the Moscow State University.

Higher education has given me a valuable understanding of the arts, and I also see interior design as an important component of it. Interior design not only shapes the aesthetic perception of space but also influences the overall mood and functionality of residential and public spaces. My education helps me create harmonious and stylish interiors that reflect the individuality of my clients and respond to modern trends.

Designers are strongly encouraged to take advantage of all available learning opportunities. Continuously improving your skills and learning about new design trends will help you remain competitive in the field. Participating in courses, webinars, and masterclasses, as well as self-education through books and online resources, are key steps to professional growth. Regular training allows you to adapt to changes in the market and improve the quality of your work.

I received my first higher education in the specialty "Business Management and Entrepreneurial Law", and the second in the specialty "Project Management". This knowledge has greatly contributed to my work in interior design, as interior design requires careful planning and management.

I earned two degrees and completed my studies at the International School of Design.

My decision to accept commissions while studying proved to be the right one. In difficult work situations, I could always turn to my professors, who are practicing designers, for advice. This significantly boosted my confidence. In addition, the internship helped me identify the missing knowledge and skills necessary for successful work in the field of design.

I completed my studies at the Architectural Academy in Rostov-on-Don, where I studied not only architecture, but also design

Higher education provides the necessary knowledge of regulatory requirements and design rules that form the basis of professional practice. The ability to create an aesthetically pleasing image or collage is only part of the job. It's much more important to understand which walls are load-bearing, where utility lines are located, and how to properly integrate plumbing fixtures into the design. Without this knowledge, you can only be a decorator or designer capable of beautifying a space, but you won't be able to carry out a full-fledged design. Therefore, obtaining a higher education in design is the key to a successful career and the opportunity to create functional and safe interiors.

Education provides a significant advantage—the ability to communicate with clients in a professional manner. This allows you to clearly explain why certain decisions, such as placing bathrooms two meters from risers, may be impractical. You'll be able to detail potential issues related to pipe slope, which, in turn, facilitates more effective communication and reduces risks during the project. Professional communication helps establish trust and ensures a more successful completion.

Explaining the process to the client helps them see you as a professional designer capable of completing the project, rather than just a "specialist" who will create an unrealistic layout and disappear. This approach builds trust and demonstrates your competence, which ultimately leads to successful cooperation.

Give some valuable advice to a working designer

Don't doubt yourself - know that you can always do more, and do more. The higher you raise the bar, the better your work will be.
Learn all the time and don't be afraid to ask questions. Even the most experienced designer may not know something or make mistakes.
Work with the styles that you like. If you have a choice: to do a project for money or to do something for less money but gain new experience - choose the latter.
Travel a lot, study the city where you live - look around you carefully to notice the tricks in simple everyday things. Cool design always consists of simple things, the main thing is to be able to see them.

Find your niche and strengthen your position in it.
Participate in all possible competitions, do not hesitate to show your work.
Don't forget about That interior design is a service, and a service must be of a high standard.

The most important advice is to never stop and complete every project you start. There are no unsolvable problems in the work of a designer, and this also applies to the construction stage. Perseverance and persistence will help you overcome any difficulties that arise during the project implementation. Remember that every completed work is a step towards your professional growth and development.

Find your DNA ― your style. Focus on what you love, not on clients or demand. Then you'll carve out your niche, and clients come to designers like you with purpose. To find your style, you need to be honest with yourself and understand what you love in life: what films you watch, what books you read, whether you prefer walks in nature or strolls through the city between high-rises. Do you love nature? Perhaps you'll gravitate toward an eco-style, or toward wabi-sabi, or hygge—cozy and homey. Don't be afraid to part with clients who aren't a good fit. You have the right to choose the people you work with. Constantly learn, develop, and attend furniture, architecture, and design exhibitions. Analyze what's happening around you: everyday life is the best teacher.
Photograph even small objects you've managed to create, and send these pictures to interior design and architecture magazines: online, print, Russian, and foreign. This is how people will find out about you.

Reworked text:

Also study:

Design styles: from Victorian to minimalism

Interior design has come a long way since the Victorian style and ending with modern minimalism. The Victorian style, characterized by its opulence and intricate details, reflects the wealth and status inherent in the Victorian era. Interiors at that time actively used bright colors, antique furniture, and rich textures, creating an atmosphere of comfort and sophistication. Over time, minimalism emerged in response to the excesses of the past. This style emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and clean lines. Minimalistic design emphasizes open spaces, neutral colors, and the elimination of unnecessary details. This approach helps create an atmosphere of calm and harmony. Victorian style and minimalism represent polar opposite trends in design, but both styles have a right to exist. Each can create a unique atmosphere in the interior, reflecting the personal preferences and lifestyle of the owner. The choice of style depends on your preferences, goals, and capabilities, and each of them can be adapted to modern realities.

How can a designer working for hire reach the next level?

First, determine your desires and preferences. Based on this, choose the most appropriate strategy.

Working for hire can be a great choice for many designers. This isn't a negative aspect of their career. Many professionals prefer to work for established studios, avoiding the complexities associated with running their own business, such as accounting and project management. This approach allows you to focus on creative work and develop your skills without additional administrative worries.

If you decide to open a studio, it is recommended to do so in partnership with someone with business experience. This approach will help you avoid costly mistakes associated with wasted time and money. An experienced partner will be able to mentor you and share valuable knowledge, which will increase the chances of successful development of your business.

All paperwork should be approached carefully. Effective solutions have already been developed in this area, so it is wiser to entrust these tasks to professionals. Delegation and trust in employees are key skills for successful management. The understanding that you can perform tasks better than others can lead to business stagnation. To grow, it's necessary to develop a team and leverage the expertise of others.

When opening your own studio, it's important not to get lost in the financial and organizational aspects, which may seem like a priority at the outset. The real goal is to enjoy your work, develop your professional skills, and create in the field of design. Focusing on enjoying the process will help maintain creativity and motivation, which will ultimately lead to success and business growth.

To reach a new level in design, you need to become an independent unit in this field. What does this mean? For me personally, as an independent individual, it's important to constantly generate ideas for webinars and master classes, give lectures, and serve on the jury of architectural competitions. This requires constant self-improvement and engagement in the professional community, which ultimately contributes to career development and expanded opportunities in design. Being proactive and dynamic plays a key role in shaping your image as an expert. A constant presence in the information space helps increase your visibility and credibility of your knowledge. To establish yourself as an expert, you need to regularly share useful content, participate in discussions, and interact with the audience. This not only strengthens your reputation but also helps attract new clients and partners.

Your desire to reach a new level depends on your personal qualities, talent, and inner potential. If you are passionate about your business and strive for development, no obstacles can stop you. It's important to believe in yourself and your abilities, and to constantly work on improving your skills. Success comes to those who aren't afraid to overcome challenges and are willing to learn at every step of the way.

To open your own studio, you need to consider several important aspects. First, determine your focus and target audience to create a unique offering. Second, develop a business plan that includes financial projections, a marketing strategy, and an organizational structure. Next, choose a suitable location for the studio, considering accessibility for clients and rental costs. Don't forget to register your business and obtain all necessary licenses and permits. It's also worth considering creating a brand that will distinguish your studio from the competition. Finally, actively promote your services through various channels, including social media and specialized platforms, to attract clients and create a steady flow of orders.

Assembling a team of like-minded people is key.
Distribute responsibilities and tasks within the team.
Develop a studio name and corporate identity.
Register a legal entity.

When a designer starts working for themselves, they are often tempted to take on numerous projects to quickly expand their portfolio and earn a significant amount of money. However, it is important to remember that quality work is always more important than quantity. It is recommended to take your time and focus on fewer projects, but to complete them to a high standard. This will not only help you build an impressive portfolio but also attract higher-quality clients who value professionalism and originality.

If you have transitioned from working for hire to working directly with clients, it is important to ensure that your contract is properly formalized. We recommend developing a contract template in collaboration with a lawyer so that you can adapt it to each specific project. This will help protect your interests and minimize risks when working with clients.

Evaluate your capabilities and determine whether you are capable of handling 3D design, drawing creation, architectural supervision, and client communication alone. If you don't have time to complete all your tasks or don't want to handle certain aspects of your work, delegate them to other specialists. This will allow you to focus on key tasks and improve the quality of your work.

Don't rush into renting office space. We rented offices for our studio several times and renovated them, but we didn't have enough time even for regular visits. Currently, we prefer to meet with clients at their sites or in neutral locations. This approach allows us to remain flexible and use our time effectively.

Reading is an important part of our lives. It develops thinking, broadens our horizons, and allows us to gain new knowledge. In the modern world, access to information has become easier thanks to the internet and e-books. Reading not only helps you delve deeper into various topics but also contributes to improved communication skills. Furthermore, regular reading can have a positive effect on your emotional state and reduce stress. To maximize the benefits of reading, it is recommended to choose a variety of genres and authors. This will not only make the process more interesting but also help you better understand different points of view. Don't forget to share what you read with others by discussing books and articles. This will enrich your experience and allow you to see the material in a new light. Read and develop every day.

"In the design profession, only 10% is creativity." Olesya Dobranova talks about how she created an inclusive interior
What goes with blue
What goes with green

Profession Interior Designer

You will learn how to transform houses and apartments. Learn how to create blueprints, stunning renders, and 3D visualizations. Get a sought-after profession, take on high-paying projects, or open a design studio.

Learn more