Student Resources

What is Interior Design?

Interior design is a multi-faceted profession in which creative and technical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built interior environment. Designs are created in response to, and coordinated with, the building shell and acknowledge the physical location and social context of the project, while adhering to code and regulatory requirements. Interior designers need to be educated in the history of design, structural integrity of buildings and building codes, ergonomics, spatial concepts, ethics, psychology, computer aided drawing, and much more. The ultimate responsibility of an interior designer is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their client and the public.

Interior Design services include, but are not limited to, any or all of the following tasks:

  • Research and analysis of the client’s goals and requirements; and development of documents, drawings and diagrams that outline those needs.
  • Formulation of preliminary space plans, and two and three dimensional design concept studies and sketches that integrate the client’s needs.
  • Confirmation that preliminary space plans and design concepts are safe, functional, aesthetically appropriate, and meet all public health, safety and welfare requirements, including codes, accessibility, environmental, and, when applicable, sustainability guidelines.
  • Selection of colors, materials and finishes to appropriately convey the design concept and to meet socio-psychological, functional, maintenance, lifecycle performance, environmental, and safety requirements.
  • Selection and specification of furniture, fixtures, equipment and millwork, including layout drawings and detailed product description; and provision of contract documentation to facilitate pricing, procurement and installation of furniture and artwork.
  • Preparation of construction documents, consisting of plans, elevations, details and specifications, to illustrate non-structural and/or non-seismic partition layouts; power and communications locations; reflected ceiling plans and lighting designs; materials and finishes; and furniture layouts.
  • Preparation of construction documents to adhere to regional building and fire codes, municipal codes, and any other jurisdictional statutes, regulations and guidelines applicable to the interior space.
Camera facing a door at the end of hallway with blue walls and wooden floor

Did You Know?

“Registered Interior Designer” is the only legally recognized title for interior designers in the state of Alabama. It is not a designation from a professional organization.

Video Library

Interior Designer vs Interior Decorator

The Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ) developed a brief video showing the difference between an NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer and an Interior Decorator, as many use the term interchangeably. This video shows how they differ in critical ways.

What Does an Interior Designer Do?

An interior designer is a professional who has acquired the expertise, knowledge, and skills, through a combination of education, experience, and examination, to create interior environments that meet the requirements of and present solutions for their clients. They have extensive knowledge of current codes, standards, and regulations and adhere to these in their work, while paying strict attention to the importance of accessibility, functionality, health, safety, and welfare to their clients.

Interior Design’s Impact on the Health, Safety, & Welfare of the Public and NCIDQ Certification

Christine Vandover discusses the critical role NCIDQ Certified interior designers play in making every aspect of a building safe and healthy for its occupants.

More Student Resources

Schools with Accredited Programs in Alabama | Importance of Joining a Professional Organization | Interior Design Career Path | Continuing the Career Path

Registered Interior Designer: Amy Estock, Birmingham | Birchfield Penuel Workplace