The more we become aware of our environment, our homes, furnishings, lighting and color, the more we realize how complex achieving a pleasing environment has become. Interior designers plan, advise, select, and arrange furnishings with the client in mind. They design the interiors of residential and commercial buildings, working with people from other trades and occasionally supervise them. Generally designers start out working for design firms or retailers. Sometimes they are introduced to the field while working as sales representatives for home furnishings, manufacturers or as assistants in designer showrooms or with a design firm.
Formal training is increasingly necessary for entry level positions and creativity is essential.
A strong color sense and understanding of materials, an eye for detail and a knowledge of the resources available, are needed for success. Other very important skills include the ability to work well with people, good sales techniques, and the responsibility carrying projects through. Good math skills are also important. The Interior Design Program at Chabot College offers both day and evening classes. They are designed to prepare individuals for entry and intermediate level positions in interior design firms, home furnishings retail stores, and wholesale showrooms for the design industry.