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Hard time finding an interior designer job in Denver. #2025
I’m an interior designer from Thailand with over 5 years of experience. I’m now based in Denver, CO, and currently applying for drafting/interior-related jobs in the U.S.
I’ve been job hunting for nearly two years, and I still haven’t landed a position.
Even though I’ve had several interviews, I haven’t been successful so far—and honestly, I’m not sure what I’m doing wrong.
I’d appreciate any honest feedback.
#2025
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5 answers
Elainne Tavares
Architect and interior designer
4
Answers
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Elainne’s Answer
Hi Tantat,
Thank you for being open and sharing your journey — it takes courage to ask for feedback, and that already shows your dedication and growth mindset. I took a look at your portfolio and I'd be happy to share a few thoughts that might help.
Tailor the first few pages to the U.S. job market — recruiters often decide in the first 30 seconds if they want to keep reading. Highlight your strongest built projects and technical drafting early on.
Consider showing before/after photos (if available) .
If possible, include a page or two with construction drawings or technical details — many U.S.-based firms want to see how you handle documentation.
You mentioned having interviews — that’s a great sign. Sometimes, small tweaks in interview communication (showing confidence, being concise, and clearly connecting your skills to the job role) can make a big difference.
Consider customizing your resume and portfolio slightly for each job, especially if it's a drafting-focused position. Some firms care more about technical accuracy than aesthetics — and vice versa.
Thank you for being open and sharing your journey — it takes courage to ask for feedback, and that already shows your dedication and growth mindset. I took a look at your portfolio and I'd be happy to share a few thoughts that might help.
Tailor the first few pages to the U.S. job market — recruiters often decide in the first 30 seconds if they want to keep reading. Highlight your strongest built projects and technical drafting early on.
Consider showing before/after photos (if available) .
If possible, include a page or two with construction drawings or technical details — many U.S.-based firms want to see how you handle documentation.
You mentioned having interviews — that’s a great sign. Sometimes, small tweaks in interview communication (showing confidence, being concise, and clearly connecting your skills to the job role) can make a big difference.
Consider customizing your resume and portfolio slightly for each job, especially if it's a drafting-focused position. Some firms care more about technical accuracy than aesthetics — and vice versa.
Thank you so much. Your comment gives me direction.
Tantat
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Your experience as an interior designer is valuable, but the U.S. job market can be competitive and regionally saturated, especially in cities like Denver where firms often receive hundreds of applications per role. If you’ve been actively job hunting for two years with limited success, it may be time to expand your strategy. First, consider applying beyond your immediate area. Many interior design and drafting firms operate in nearby cities or offer remote and hybrid positions, particularly for CAD, Revit, or SketchUp drafting roles. Smaller towns undergoing commercial growth or real estate expansion may also have less competition and a greater demand for experienced professionals.
Additionally, think about pivoting into related fields such as staging, real estate development support, construction project coordination, or furniture and materials sourcing. These areas can benefit from your design eye while opening new networks. Strengthening your credentials with business management or entrepreneurship courses—such as those offered online through the University of the Cumberlands—can also equip you to launch a freelance business or consult independently. This approach offers income, portfolio expansion, and credibility while you continue pursuing full-time roles. Your skills are needed—it’s just time to redirect your path toward where they are seen.
Additionally, think about pivoting into related fields such as staging, real estate development support, construction project coordination, or furniture and materials sourcing. These areas can benefit from your design eye while opening new networks. Strengthening your credentials with business management or entrepreneurship courses—such as those offered online through the University of the Cumberlands—can also equip you to launch a freelance business or consult independently. This approach offers income, portfolio expansion, and credibility while you continue pursuing full-time roles. Your skills are needed—it’s just time to redirect your path toward where they are seen.
Thank you for your advice. I am open to any job that relates to my experience and that aligns with my skills. I'm still not sure what I'm missing here. Maybe how I'm doing the interview, Certificate, or Connections?
Tantat
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Tantat!
Yes, please start networking and rubbing shoulders with as many local folks as possible in Denver and online on social media pages and blogs enhancing your online visibility and communication. You need a standout website all your own. Make a webpage that loads in a flash, is fast, and efficient. Get another job and start talking to people!
Tell all people about your interior decorating work. Get copies of your printed portfolio together, laminated in plastic folders to protect against coffee spills! WORK ON THE NETWORKING. Networking methods include: - ‣ Indeed, LinkedIn ‣ Joining a networking group ‣ Utilizing social media ‣ Letting people pick your brain at seminars ‣ Growing a database of new friends, and professional business contacts ‣ Joining industry groups ‣ Attending conventions and conferences ‣ Sending cold emails ‣ Setting up informational interviews ‣ Offering assistance ‣ Attending group networking events ‣ Attending industry-related conferences ‣ Joining online communities ‣ Participating in online forums ‣ Meeting new contacts for coffee ‣ Reaching out to potential contacts via email or social networking sites ‣ Asking friends to introduce you to their contacts ‣ Staying in touch with former coworkers ‣ Going to shows with people ‣ Going to people's houses to have meals with them and watch shows ‣ Holding public discussion groups ‣ Meeting with Parents' and Teachers' Association Groups ‣ Having telescopes at an amateur astronomer's star party ‣ Winetasting ‣ Getting to know and talk to your local medical doctors ‣ Meeting with neighborhood clubs ‣ Meeting with local health action Groups ‣ Joining public speaking groups like Toastmasters and Zonta ‣ Meeting people at a fancy restaurant, sitting down, talking, having a meal ‣ Paying your waiter a tab ‣ Give local schoolchildren a talk about your work so that they can follow in your footsteps and get a career together ‣ Getting to know therapists. GIVING PEOPLE VALUABLE GIFTS. VOLUNTEERING.
Yes, please start networking and rubbing shoulders with as many local folks as possible in Denver and online on social media pages and blogs enhancing your online visibility and communication. You need a standout website all your own. Make a webpage that loads in a flash, is fast, and efficient. Get another job and start talking to people!
Tell all people about your interior decorating work. Get copies of your printed portfolio together, laminated in plastic folders to protect against coffee spills! WORK ON THE NETWORKING. Networking methods include: - ‣ Indeed, LinkedIn ‣ Joining a networking group ‣ Utilizing social media ‣ Letting people pick your brain at seminars ‣ Growing a database of new friends, and professional business contacts ‣ Joining industry groups ‣ Attending conventions and conferences ‣ Sending cold emails ‣ Setting up informational interviews ‣ Offering assistance ‣ Attending group networking events ‣ Attending industry-related conferences ‣ Joining online communities ‣ Participating in online forums ‣ Meeting new contacts for coffee ‣ Reaching out to potential contacts via email or social networking sites ‣ Asking friends to introduce you to their contacts ‣ Staying in touch with former coworkers ‣ Going to shows with people ‣ Going to people's houses to have meals with them and watch shows ‣ Holding public discussion groups ‣ Meeting with Parents' and Teachers' Association Groups ‣ Having telescopes at an amateur astronomer's star party ‣ Winetasting ‣ Getting to know and talk to your local medical doctors ‣ Meeting with neighborhood clubs ‣ Meeting with local health action Groups ‣ Joining public speaking groups like Toastmasters and Zonta ‣ Meeting people at a fancy restaurant, sitting down, talking, having a meal ‣ Paying your waiter a tab ‣ Give local schoolchildren a talk about your work so that they can follow in your footsteps and get a career together ‣ Getting to know therapists. GIVING PEOPLE VALUABLE GIFTS. VOLUNTEERING.
Thank you for the advice. That's pretty hardcore, but it would be the best guideline. I try my best to follow the steps one by one.
Tantat
There is a bit to do, but you will succeed!
James Constantine Frangos
Updated
Jonathan’s Answer
I concur with Elainne's advice and along the same lines I suggest to you that an interview is not merely the opportunity to show your work but also to communicate how your values and approach to design can be assets to an employer. Research the firm's website, review major projects and list of clients as well as the backgrounds of the principals and associates to gain an in depth understanding of the firm's personality and culture. When responding to questions during the interview be sure to weave in your knowledge of the firm in how you answer each question, Following are some random examples of how you may impress an employer with HOW YOU THINK.
Q-please describe your experience with detailing and construction documents.
A-consistent with your firm's focus on Type V housing projects I completed an assignment requiring permit documentation for a similar housing project where I was responsible for (XXXX). I have examples of the drawings I worked on to show you.
Q-which projects/clients have you worked on/for?
A-a project I am particularly proud of was a new facility for ABC Corp where I was responsible for (XXXX). My experience may align with your firm's direction because ABC Corp is a major competitor to one of your firm's major clients, XYZ Corp for whom you have repeat projects.
Q-how has your education prepared you for professional practice?
A-I earned my design degree at (YYYY University) where the curriculum is focused on (you choose- conceptual design? sustainable design? design theory? practical skills?) which seems to be a focus area of your firm which is one of the reasons I am excited to join your team.
Q-how do you feel your qualifications distinguish you for employment at this firm?
A-in a competitive marketplace I assume every candidate that is selected for an interview has an impressive portfolio and excellent references; in addition to these minimum requirements I bring an understanding of the importance of producing excellent work in a timely manner and maintaining a highly productive approach to my projects. Time is money and firms often struggle to be profitable. My goals as a member of your firm are to be creative, industrious and accountable, responsive to client expectations and contribute to the financial success of my projects.
Q-please describe your experience with detailing and construction documents.
A-consistent with your firm's focus on Type V housing projects I completed an assignment requiring permit documentation for a similar housing project where I was responsible for (XXXX). I have examples of the drawings I worked on to show you.
Q-which projects/clients have you worked on/for?
A-a project I am particularly proud of was a new facility for ABC Corp where I was responsible for (XXXX). My experience may align with your firm's direction because ABC Corp is a major competitor to one of your firm's major clients, XYZ Corp for whom you have repeat projects.
Q-how has your education prepared you for professional practice?
A-I earned my design degree at (YYYY University) where the curriculum is focused on (you choose- conceptual design? sustainable design? design theory? practical skills?) which seems to be a focus area of your firm which is one of the reasons I am excited to join your team.
Q-how do you feel your qualifications distinguish you for employment at this firm?
A-in a competitive marketplace I assume every candidate that is selected for an interview has an impressive portfolio and excellent references; in addition to these minimum requirements I bring an understanding of the importance of producing excellent work in a timely manner and maintaining a highly productive approach to my projects. Time is money and firms often struggle to be profitable. My goals as a member of your firm are to be creative, industrious and accountable, responsive to client expectations and contribute to the financial success of my projects.
Thank you for the advice. This gives me some idea.
Tantat
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Tantat !
Although no one really can tell you why you're having a time obtaining work, I am sorry to know it's still the case and would be happy to provide some advice that I hope is not duplicate from the last time you've asked this question. I saw your wonderful portfolio and I really like your work, it is clean, contemporary lines and you are very talented !
One thing I can say is that during the interviews that you've had, were you asked if you have anything that you don't have ? Maybe the employers are looking for certain things or just want designers that have experience in the U.S. and know the U.S. and State standards/laws/guidelines, etc., I don't know. Do you have the required U.S. License and Certifications that are expected by U.S. employers ? In the meantime, you should take an interim job, maybe in retail - furniture store or design company, just so you won't go any further without a paycheck and not cause the gap between your employments to get larger. Hopefully you are working somewhere, but you didn't mention that.
The next thing to consider would be to be listed in Interior Design Directories so that when people need the service, they can contact you. Some directory websites to register at are Houzz, Denver's Better Business Bureau, Denver Architects, Denver Design District, Designer Premier. Being listed in directories is worth a try.
Really, only you can assess how your interviews go. You certainly have great talent and skill. In addition to that, how is the chemistry and rapport going during the interviews ?
Another route to consider would be to connect with the Thai Community in your area. Join a group or network, have people get to know you that are business owners and corporate decision makers. You can try connecting with 15 Degree Studio which is a Thai based Design Group, and also consider the Denver Design Group and the Denver Design Center even though they are not Thai based, you can also probably apply for work there in some capacity.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Although no one really can tell you why you're having a time obtaining work, I am sorry to know it's still the case and would be happy to provide some advice that I hope is not duplicate from the last time you've asked this question. I saw your wonderful portfolio and I really like your work, it is clean, contemporary lines and you are very talented !
One thing I can say is that during the interviews that you've had, were you asked if you have anything that you don't have ? Maybe the employers are looking for certain things or just want designers that have experience in the U.S. and know the U.S. and State standards/laws/guidelines, etc., I don't know. Do you have the required U.S. License and Certifications that are expected by U.S. employers ? In the meantime, you should take an interim job, maybe in retail - furniture store or design company, just so you won't go any further without a paycheck and not cause the gap between your employments to get larger. Hopefully you are working somewhere, but you didn't mention that.
The next thing to consider would be to be listed in Interior Design Directories so that when people need the service, they can contact you. Some directory websites to register at are Houzz, Denver's Better Business Bureau, Denver Architects, Denver Design District, Designer Premier. Being listed in directories is worth a try.
Really, only you can assess how your interviews go. You certainly have great talent and skill. In addition to that, how is the chemistry and rapport going during the interviews ?
Another route to consider would be to connect with the Thai Community in your area. Join a group or network, have people get to know you that are business owners and corporate decision makers. You can try connecting with 15 Degree Studio which is a Thai based Design Group, and also consider the Denver Design Group and the Denver Design Center even though they are not Thai based, you can also probably apply for work there in some capacity.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Thank you for the advice. However, is 15 Degree Studio based in Colorado? I checked their website, and they are based in Thailand.
Tantat
So sorry. I misunderstood the information thinking that "based" meant the company was in Denver but Thai owned (in Denver) because it came in a search for Denver places. Sorry about that and thanks for pointing it out.
Michelle M.