2 answers
Hannah
Student
Leavenworth, Kansas
1
Question
Asked
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What steps should I take if I plan on possibly majoring in Interior Design for college, while in high school?
I already took an "Essence of Fashion Apparel and Interior Design" class my Sophomore year, and am currently taking Marketing 1, soon taking Marketing 2 next year.
I've been to a few colleges in my state, and most of them seem to have fairly good programs to offer. However, I'm a little stuck because I'm not sure if I'm quite ready to fill up a portfolio for colleges with barely any projects to showcase. What are some things I should do to prepare?
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2 answers
Mauricio Chaves
Interior Designer
42
Answers
Doorn, Netherlands
Updated
Mauricio’s Answer
Dear Hannah,
It's great to hear about your interest in pursuing interior design in college. The classes you've taken so far, are already setting a solid foundation. Building a compelling portfolio is a common concern among aspiring designers, but there are several steps you can take during high school to strengthen your application:
1. Engage in Art and Design Courses: Continue enrolling in art-related classes such as drawing, painting, or graphic design. These courses will enhance your understanding of design principles and help develop your creative skills.
2. Undertake Personal Projects: Start small design projects at home or for friends and family. Redesigning a room or creating mood boards for hypothetical spaces can provide practical experience. Document these projects with sketches, photos, and notes to include in your portfolio.
3. Explore Online Courses: Consider enrolling in online courses that focus on interior design fundamentals. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer beginner-friendly courses that can introduce you to key concepts and techniques. One of the most well-known schools in the UK is the National Design Academy. They offer beginner-friendly courses and even have full diploma and degree programmes if you decide to continue later on. But for now, just exploring their free resources and videos can be inspiring.
4. Attend Workshops and Summer Programs: Look for workshops or summer programs offered by local colleges or design schools. These programs often provide hands-on experience and can be a valuable addition to your portfolio.
5. Develop Technical Skills: Familiarise yourself with design software commonly used in the industry, such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Adobe Creative Suite. Proficiency in these tools can give you an edge in your studies and future career.
6. Build a Diverse Portfolio: Include a variety of work in your portfolio to showcase your range and versatility. This can encompass sketches, paintings, digital designs, and photographs of any physical models or spaces you've created. Emphasise quality over quantity, and ensure each piece reflects your skills and creativity.
7. Seek Feedback: Share your work with teachers, mentors, or professionals in the field to gain constructive feedback. Their insights can help you refine your projects and improve your portfolio.
8. Stay Inspired: Follow interior design blogs, magazines, and social media accounts to keep abreast of current trends and gain inspiration. Understanding various styles and approaches will help you develop your unique aesthetic.
Building a strong portfolio is a gradual process. Focus on developing your skills, exploring your creativity, and documenting your journey. Your passion and dedication will shine through in your work.
May the force be with you.
It's great to hear about your interest in pursuing interior design in college. The classes you've taken so far, are already setting a solid foundation. Building a compelling portfolio is a common concern among aspiring designers, but there are several steps you can take during high school to strengthen your application:
1. Engage in Art and Design Courses: Continue enrolling in art-related classes such as drawing, painting, or graphic design. These courses will enhance your understanding of design principles and help develop your creative skills.
2. Undertake Personal Projects: Start small design projects at home or for friends and family. Redesigning a room or creating mood boards for hypothetical spaces can provide practical experience. Document these projects with sketches, photos, and notes to include in your portfolio.
3. Explore Online Courses: Consider enrolling in online courses that focus on interior design fundamentals. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer beginner-friendly courses that can introduce you to key concepts and techniques. One of the most well-known schools in the UK is the National Design Academy. They offer beginner-friendly courses and even have full diploma and degree programmes if you decide to continue later on. But for now, just exploring their free resources and videos can be inspiring.
4. Attend Workshops and Summer Programs: Look for workshops or summer programs offered by local colleges or design schools. These programs often provide hands-on experience and can be a valuable addition to your portfolio.
5. Develop Technical Skills: Familiarise yourself with design software commonly used in the industry, such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Adobe Creative Suite. Proficiency in these tools can give you an edge in your studies and future career.
6. Build a Diverse Portfolio: Include a variety of work in your portfolio to showcase your range and versatility. This can encompass sketches, paintings, digital designs, and photographs of any physical models or spaces you've created. Emphasise quality over quantity, and ensure each piece reflects your skills and creativity.
7. Seek Feedback: Share your work with teachers, mentors, or professionals in the field to gain constructive feedback. Their insights can help you refine your projects and improve your portfolio.
8. Stay Inspired: Follow interior design blogs, magazines, and social media accounts to keep abreast of current trends and gain inspiration. Understanding various styles and approaches will help you develop your unique aesthetic.
Building a strong portfolio is a gradual process. Focus on developing your skills, exploring your creativity, and documenting your journey. Your passion and dedication will shine through in your work.
May the force be with you.
Thanks for the feedback! I'll consider starting some passion projects, as well as taking some online courses sometime!
Hannah
Martin Sweet
1
Answer
Updated
Martin’s Answer
I cannot stress this enough;
Everything you’re setting out to do depends on your ability to convey your designs with the fluidity of a fish going through the water.
I’m not one of those instructors who says CAD is the only thing to learn. You may have great sketching skills or like to water color your renderings,do that too! Those are your secret skills that no one expects!
I don’t care if it’s a clay pad or an IPad, ,a work station or a pad of paper,
Draw every day!!!
Everything you’re setting out to do depends on your ability to convey your designs with the fluidity of a fish going through the water.
I’m not one of those instructors who says CAD is the only thing to learn. You may have great sketching skills or like to water color your renderings,do that too! Those are your secret skills that no one expects!
I don’t care if it’s a clay pad or an IPad, ,a work station or a pad of paper,
Draw every day!!!