Interior Design Degree Career Options

What can you do with a traditional or online degree in interior design? if you appreciate a well-planned kitchen, with drawers that are convenient, backsplash and countertops that are inviting, cabinet shelves that can be rearranged, and appropriately placed task lighting, you may very well want to pursue a career as a Kitchen Designer.

What do Kitchen Designers do?

Kitchen Designers consult with clients about how they would like to remodel their kitchen to be both more attractive, and more user friendly. This may include discussing why is it best to replace Formica countertops with granite, if old cabinets can be replaced with others of different shapes and sizes to accommodate a family's specific needs, how lighting can be used to make the kitchen a more welcoming room, and what appliances will fit where in the new space. So in order for a kitchen to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, Kitchen Designers must tailor a kitchen design to the desires of clients.

What skills must Kitchen Designers have?

Kitchen Designers must possess strong communication skills so nothing is misunderstood or not discussed with the client. Kitchen Designers must have excellent interpersonal sensitivity, so they can help clients satisfy their needs while also staying within the limits of their budget.

In addition, Kitchen Designers should excel at planning, creativity, estimating costs, estimating time and estimating materials needed. They must also be able to work well as part of a team, especially if they supervise the kitchen installation and work alongside contractors or need to consult with plumbers of architects about design issues. Kitchen Designers should also be able to use computer-aided design (CAD) software as well.

What educational requirements must Kitchen Designers have?

There are various college degree programs that you can pursue in order to become a Kitchen Designer. Although it varies depending on the state that you live in, you can usually become a Kitchen Designer by earning a bachelor's degree in Interior Design. Online degree programs are available in Interior Design. You can also earn online a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Science and Technology in Kitchen & Bath Design.

What required experiences must Kitchen Designers have?

To become a Licensed Kitchen Designer, you should gain work experience as an intern with a Kitchen Designer or in a kitchen supply store or kitchen showroom. In addition, courses that meet the certification requirements of the National Kitchen & Bath Association are also available online.

What is the average salary of Kitchen Designers?

According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, the average salary of Certified Kitchen Designer is $87,000, and the average salary of the owners of kitchen and bath design firms is $114,000.

What is the job outlook for Kitchen Designers?

With more and more individuals renovating their homes rather than selling them, the demand for kitchen designers can be great. This is especially true with individuals spending more and more time in the kitchen, whether during this time they cook, eat, socialize with friends or relax with family members. In addition, certified Aging-in-Place Specialists can help the increasing numbers of older adults who need to renovate their homes in order to accommodate age-related issues in mobility.

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