It's time for Interior Designers to stand up for the right to call ourselves Interior Designers. I am so tired of people assuming that I am a decorator- a swatch picker, a pillow fluffer. When someone asks me what I'm going to school for, I simply say "Interior Design". It never fails- people automatically assume that the words "designer" and "decorator" are synonymous. I always think to myself, "do you really think that I would attend college for four years to learn how to rearrange your furniture, or find a new rug for your dining room??" These are things that people can learn on their own by watching television programs on HGTV. I have to say, I do understand where the confusion comes in. The TV gives the people a false idea of what Interior Design really is. I have never once heard David Bromstad on Color Splash say that he is a graduate of Ringling and that he worked his ass off to be where he is today... It infuriates me that none of the experienced Interior Designers on HGTV and other "design" programs on television let their profession be as misunderstood as it is. I know that this misconception will always be a problem, but I don't feel that it is unreasonable to say that I can make a difference one explanation at a time. As an Interior Design student, I understand that it is extremely important to have a prepared explanation of what I do- I refuse to be a part of the confusion.
So, in case you were unaware, Interior Design requires lots of schooling- four entire years, to be exact. And to be licensed, you'll need two years of experience. To the regular Joe, it may seem like Interior Design is about drawing floor plans, and making spaces "pretty". Although we do create aesthetically pleasing spaces, there's much more to it than that. Did you know that most commercial spaces you've visited have had the help of an Interior Designer? Without us and our extensive training, your favorite restaurant may one day burn to the ground. An Interior Designer's training requires us to learn and understand ADA codes, as well as many other codes and restrictions. This is by no means all of the duties of an Interior Designer. If you are looking for a more in-depth description, please see the NCIDQ, ASID, and IIDA websites. You will surely find your information there.
To all of my fellow Interior Design peers, do NOT let people think that you are working your hardest to go out in the real world to stand in front of a paint swatch display at Lowe's, or to revamp a few lamps with spray paint to make them look new again. You may do these things every once in awhile, but there is major planning and thought involved- which is often not portrayed in television shows or magazines. Make sure each and every curious person you meet walks away with an accurate depiction of your future profession. Do not be afraid to stand up for yourself! If you can't stand up for yourself now, how will you explain all of the design decisions you make? People are bound to ask questions. Always be prepared. Don't let them catch you with your professional pants down!
