Saturday, February 28, 2009

Interior Motives: Decorating

By Fabian Toulouse

The concern with the decor of any given area is, by definition, an act of interior decorating. It involves coordinating the walls hangings, furniture, light fixtures, windows, doors and all points and pieces in-between. The client base can be drawn from corporate or private sectors and invariably involves the decorating and design of work and living spaces. The characteristics of interior design are varied, but there is little controversy regarding its place as a legitimate art form.

Should interior design prove appealing, it is essential to be prepared. A number of reputable colleges and universities are dedicated to educating and producing highly qualified graduates. As with any professional field, success is predicated on a superior education and an impressive portfolio. Regardless of the institution, students are likely to begin their coursework with fundamental studies in design and composition.

Choosing the appropriate university is indeed time-intensive, but success is always founded on the wise investment of time. Explore all the viable options, but be forewarned: where one studies tends to be where one works. Due to the regional nature of college recruitment, companies and clients hire locally. If the idea of pulling up stakes and moving to a new city is appealing, make sure you have access to the appropriate scholastic programs.

Following graduation, it behooves an interior decorator to immediate begin work on his or her portfolio. Furthermore, the question of whether or not a career with a design firm is appealing must be addressed. A number of graduates wish to work with a firm in their first few years, learning the basic guidelines and the requirements of agency life. Other graduates exploit internships and make their way into an assortment of companies. Regardless, the key it get involved as soon as possible. There are no wrong answers, no incorrect paths.

An interior decorator is never guaranteed a salary, short of an entry-level rate with design firms. Experience will eventually translate into higher fees and greater income. As the number of contacts increases and the client list grows, so too will the income. The best advice is to trust in your abilities. Interior decorating, contrary to popular perception, is not a career for the faint of heart. - 15252

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