Is Interior Design Easy to Learn?

Is Interior Design Easy to Learn?

The short answer? Yes and no.

If you want to learn interior design as a hobby or to decorate your own space, it can be fun and easy to start. But if you're thinking of becoming a professional interior designer, it takes time, skill, and serious training to get there.

Let me break it down for you.

Learning Interior Design for Personal Use

If you're someone who enjoys picking paint colors, arranging furniture, or scrolling through Pinterest for room ideas — good news! You can learn the basics at home without a degree.

Can I Learn Interior Designing at Home?

Absolutely. Here’s how most beginners start:

  • Watch YouTube videos for beginner tips and room makeovers.
  • Browse blogs or Pinterest for creative ideas and mood boards.
  • Read design magazines like Elle Décor or Architectural Digest.
  • Practice at home. Try changing your room layout or color scheme.

How Long Does It Take?

With regular practice, you’ll see a big difference in your skills within 3 to 6 months. Just start small and keep learning. It’s like any other hobby — the more you try, the better you get.

Learning Interior Design for a Professional Career

If you want to become a full-time interior designer, it’s a different journey.

To work professionally, you’ll often need a degree, training, and sometimes a license (depending on where you're located).

Formal Education

You can choose:

  • Diploma in Interior Design (1–2 years)
  • Bachelor’s Degree (3–4 years)
  • Master’s (optional but advanced)

In many countries, professionals also take an exam called NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) to become certified.

How Long Will It Take?

From school to working on real projects, becoming a pro usually takes 4 to 6 years. It’s not “easy,” because design isn’t just about picking pretty colors. It’s about planning spaces that are smart, safe, and stylish.

Hard Skills You Need to Learn as a Pro

As a career, interior design includes lots of technical skills. You’ll need to master:

  • Software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, 3DS Max, or Revit.
  • Space planning: Understanding flow, function, and furniture placement.
  • Color theory and materials: Knowing textures, fabrics, lighting, and finishes.
  • Project management: Staying on budget and on schedule.
  • Construction codes and safety rules: Very important for legal and safe designs.

So yes — it’s creative, but also very technical.

Soft Skills That Matter

Some people pick up interior design faster because they have the right soft skills, like:

  • Creativity and problem-solving
  • Great communication skills (very helpful with clients!)
  • Sharp attention to detail
  • Handling stress well, especially during deadlines or client feedback

These skills can make the learning process smoother (or harder if you don’t work on them).

Is Interior Design Harder Than Architecture?

People ask this a lot, and here’s how I explain it:

  • Architecture focuses more on structure, math, and engineering.
  • Interior Design focuses more on user experience, beauty, and how spaces feel.

Neither one is “easy.” Both take a serious commitment. It depends on your interests and strengths.

How to Start Studying Interior Design (Step-by-Step Guide)

Wondering how to start studying interior design? Here's a simple path:

Step 1: Choose Your Goal

Are you learning as a hobbyist or aiming to become a pro?

Step 2: Start Free

Use YouTube, blogs, and free online courses (many great ones on Coursera or Skillshare).

Step 3: Practice at Home

Redesign your own room. Try things out. Take risks!

Step 4: Build a Portfolio

Take before-and-after photos of your practice designs. Even small projects count.

Step 5: Go Professional

If you’re serious, apply for a diploma or degree program in Interior Design, or take recognized certification courses.

Short Courses vs Full Degrees

Short Interior Design Courses:

  • Good for beginners or hobbyists
  • Lets you test if it's the right career
  • Less expensive and faster

Full Degrees:

  • Needed to work in big firms or take the NCIDQ exam
  • Teaches deep technical and design knowledge
  • Takes more time and money, but opens more doors

So, choose based on your goals.

Is Interior Design a Good Career?

Yes, interior design can be a great career, both in Bangladesh and internationally.

Why?

  • High demand in residential, commercial, and office design
  • Creative field where no two projects are the same
  • Respect and recognition if you build your name
  • You can even earn a good income over time

In Bangladesh, many people are now hiring interior designers for homes, cafés, offices, and showrooms. That’s where we at Archiconnect come in — helping clients create beautiful spaces every day.

Final Verdict: Is Interior Design Easy to Learn?

Here’s the truth:

  • If you’re learning for fun, then YES — interior design is easy and exciting to pick up.
  • If you want to be a professional interior designer, be ready for a challenging but rewarding path that takes years to master.

FAQs

Is interior design difficult to study?

It can be — especially if you want to work professionally. You’ll need to learn creative and technical skills.

How long does it take to learn interior design?

As a beginner? 3–6 months for the basics. As a pro? Usually 4–6 years with education and project work.

Can I learn interior design by myself?

Yes! Start with home projects, online tutorials, and short courses.

What is the 70/30 rule in interior design?

This rule says: use 70% of a dominant design style and 30% of a mix to keep your space balanced and interesting.

Is interior design a hard career?

It’s competitive and can be stressful — but for people who love creativity and design, it’s worth the effort.