Interior Design Portfolio

Posted on January 22, 2007 by flickrfo

A great portfolio can be your portal to better and better work as in interior designer. Here are a few tips to get you started.
What To Include:

Depending on how long you have been in the business, you may have a lot of project to choose from to include in your portfolio, or perhaps just a few. The key is to make sure that at the end of every job, you take pains to ensure that there are lots of high-quality photographs of your work. You can hire a professional or take a class or two and learn to do this yourself. Since these photographs are all your potential clients will have to go on when judging your work, they need to be as well presented and professional looking as possible.

You should include somewhere around a half a dozen or so projects in your portfolio. If you have enough work under your belt that you can tailor your portfolio to the needs of each client you show it too, all the better. If you are not quite there yet, simply make sure that your book shows off the best of your work and that it includes examples that show a nice range of work and abilities.

There should be an introduction wherein you explain your background and experience as well as your overall philosophy when it comes to design. Here is also where you can toot your horn a little bit about any specialized skills you have acquired and any awards you may have received.

Compiling Your Information:

There should be a little bit of background information included with your images, such as drawings, the materials that you used, and especially "before, during, and after" shots. If you have the ability to use special tools and methods, include that information as well.

There should be a few pages for each project that show the work as it progressed. The pages should be arranged chronologically, with perhaps a really nice shot of the finished project introducing each section. Add a short bit of text to any pages you feel may benefit from some explanation.

You should, of course, always be sure to have plenty of business cards and resumes on hand and tucked away on your portfolio for you to hand out to potential clients. If you have the wherewithal, you can also create a brochure you can leave places, and a website that you can point people to.

Printing and Binding

There are a few ways go go about this. Many designers just take their photographs and affix them to paper to create their pages. You can also put them together in a layout software program and print them out with a high quality digital printer. The second method may be a bit more professional looking, as you can add text boxes to go with your images, and the overall effect is more sleek.

When it comes to binding, there are a few options as well. You can go with the traditional portfolio case, or you can create custom books for each potential client. The machines that create traditional hardcover books are surprisingly inexpensive and easy to use. With your own machine on hand, and a set of covers at the ready, you can literally have a custom made book ready to take to a meeting in less than 5 minutes, and can leave the book behind for your client to keep.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. QUESTION:
    What do colleges expect in an interior design portfolio?
    I was wondering if colleges expected actual photographs of real rooms when a student sent a portfolio, or if floor plans and drawings would suffice. As my high school has no interior design classes, designing actual rooms would not be an option. I'm sorry if this is a dumb question, haha.

    • ANSWER:
      Yes they expect actual photographs of real rooms in the portfolios.

  2. QUESTION:
    Help with an interior design portfolio?
    I've always had aspirations of studying Interior Design and hopefully turning it into a career. I was talked out of it and decided to get my BA in Internatinal Relations. Well, Im thinking of going back to school to do two Master's programs, one being in Interior Design. They want a portfolio submitted and Im not sure how to go about it. What should a portfolio look like and what type of images should I submit? Are there any good programs or software that could be of great help? Thanks.

    • ANSWER:
      I graduated with an ID degree a few years ago. You don't really need software. They just want to see you have the talent to further develop it, so show ANY artwork - people, plants, buidligns, animals, etc. Although you shoould already have all this if you've seriously considered a career in interior design. If you do want to submit comoputerized things, try photoshop. Otherwise, you'll learn CAD and revit in school. If you try to rush a portfolio, they'll know.

  3. QUESTION:
    How do I make my Interior Design Portfolio?
    If you were a designer and were looking at a portfolio what would you like to see? How do I make a good portfolio...I have some projects I've done. Do I just take regular pictures and glue them on some paper and write descriptions? I have no clue, please help.

    • ANSWER:
      Maybe this will help??

      < before and after pictures on the projects
      < go from sketches, plans to finished project (presentation)
      < new project presentations

      < If you have digital presentations (animations) try put in it on the portfolio (they´ll probably would like to look at it)

  4. QUESTION:
    Any ideas on how to begin an interior design portfolio?
    I am applying to a university and need a portfolio. Is there a certain format I need to follow? Any information would be helpful. Thank you.

    • ANSWER:

  5. QUESTION:
    What kind of things needs to be in a interior design portfolio?
    I'm in grade 12 this year and I need to start making this portfolio in order to apply to universities/ colleges. Any tips of what to put in it?

    • ANSWER:
      There's only one person who can truely help you with your portfolio.... your High school art teacher. With interior design, you need a lot of drawings, and renditions.... and your art teacher who may have TAUGHT you all of this, while be the only person who can give you some guidance.

  6. QUESTION:
    What does Parsons New School of Design look for in a Interior Design portfolio?
    I want to apply,but I am not sure how my portfolio should look,what should be in it or anything.Do they accept scetches?What else should i do.I am so desperate.PLEASE help me.

    • ANSWER:
      I think because this is so important to get it right that you should consult the school, try contacting the department chairperson for the department you are applying, or ask for advice from your admissions counselor. Collect as much of your work as you can and remain calm....you can do it!

  7. QUESTION:
    i need help with my interior design portfolio! Trying to get into FIT?
    Can anybody give me any tips or things that can help me gain an advantage in putting together a Interior Design portfolio. I have 2 more weeks to finish before I show it FIT admissions. Anyone with tips on presentation that would be appreciated as well. Thanx

    • ANSWER:
      Hello, I just got reviewed by the interior design staff at FIT and I got in! But here are some pointers i think that might help you. I don't know what you already have in your portfolio; butt hey are very picky about what they like to see. I've seen couple of girls cry because they were told to come back with a stronger portfolio.

      They like to see strong drafting or your skills at drawing or creating three dimensional structures, building or rooms. They see talented and creative people all the time but they look for people who can handle the heavy workload of the program. It's great to have still lifes or random paintings, but try to display your technical skills. Your ability to render, design, understand perspective and shade.

      My three dimensional structure piece really helped a lot as they can see that i can design and create structures. If you have in the past done three dimensional piece; please bring it! no matter how strange it might look. Or if you solely have drawings try to bring in perspective and structural drawings on top of your previous work. variety is good, but try to relate your work to the interior design field as i saw many student with fine arts and not enough technical drawings.
      At last resort, you can focus strongly on the home test assignments. And add few strong pieces of interior spaces; it could be your room, building, etc

      I wish you luck and if you are told to come back; you can always take their portfolio preparation class and come back with a stronger portfolio and get in!

  8. QUESTION:
    How do i prepare a portfolio for college for interior design or design and management?
    i'm going into 11th grade, and i know i want to go to Parson's New School of Design to study interior design or design management.
    How can i start now to build a portfolio for interior design or Design and management?
    what should be included?

    • ANSWER:
      All applicants must submit a portfolio consisting of 8 to 12 pieces of work including, but not limited to, drawings, paintings, photographs, digital media, or design.

      And they strongly discourage doing portfolio on your major only.
      For eg. (and obviously for interior design you need to do perspective, having lot of bunch of interiors of building is NOT recommended by them

      For design and management they say: drawing, video, photography, animation, or websites, blogs, videogame mods or other media are applicable. Beside the Above.

      What i found interesting in Parsons compare to other design schools is that, they really want you to be able to draw well. Take art courses in school, and work some perspective/interior at home.
      (different mediums too!, doing all pencil is just.., boring and bad)

      interior design at parsons is hard, i wish you the best of luck.

  9. QUESTION:
    Starting an interior design portfolio?
    so im starting college in September to do art, but specializing in interior design. however the college has asked me to create a portfolio with all different ideas, samples and designs. i havent got a clue where to start :( could you please give me a few ideas. thank you :)

    • ANSWER:
      Hi Chris,
      Congrats on your chosen career :o ) I would suggest a couple of great websites to check out www.HGTV.com. Also on the internet is www.houzz.com. I urge you to check this website because design is different in the regions across the US. I find this website very informative.
      Good Luck

  10. QUESTION:
    Interior Design... Develop Portfolio??
    I've recently decided to change my major to interior design and the college im planning on attending requires a portfolio review..
    How do i go about developing a portfolio? i feel so stupid for having to ask something like this, but o well..

    I plan on calling and getting more information..

    is the portfolio going to be based off work i do in the college art classes?
    i'm starting to get really nervous about this bc i feel so inexperienced but other ppl are in the same place right? we're not already expected to know EVERYTHING..

    • ANSWER:
      Your last paragraph is right on. The reviewers of the portfolio are looking to see what kind of person you are as an artist. Put in past and current work that you think best represents the creative person you are or want to be and you'll do just fine. No one is expecting you to have interior design work in your portfolio, especially if you are an undergraduate.

      Don't worry. Everyone else is in the same boat, and the reviewers will appreciate seeing work from non-interior design classes. Think about the experience you want the portfolio readers to have when they are reviewing your work. Make sure the layout is clean and clear. Think about page size, etc. Plan ahead...figure out where you're going to print it, what kind of paper is best, and so on.

  11. QUESTION:
    Interior design portfolio help?
    I'd really like to go into the interior design feild, and one of the qualifications were needing a portfolio of my work to see where I am... however I don't have any experience with actually remodelling someones room. I have an interior design program on my computer but I cannot afford to actually remake other peoples homes. What do I do? I'm still in grade 11 so I'm not worrying but for next year when I do graduate...

    Plus, how many photos do I need? Please help me!! :(

    • ANSWER:
      You can do this: Take some pics of rooms you WOULD redesign. Create, in writing, real-life scenarios. For instance, your "client is a family of 4 with pets. They lead a busy lifestyle & need durability & functionality for their family room. They need plenty of seating for entertaining, but have limited space..." So in this scenario, you will describe this family & their needs & wants & design parameters. Then you will create a floor plan, using your design logic & explain your solution, using design rationale. You will gather as many small samples as you can for paint, flooring, furniture, etc (you can just print pics of these items off the computer & use real paint chips from the paint store) & make a collage of these items. Your solution will be a separate write-up from the scenario. You will want to do at least 3 design scenarios & solutions, all with different rooms, clients, & solutions. Vary your solutions to reflect different styles - in other words, one client will be a single person who wants contemporary Design, one will be a family needing practicality & a more traditional look, etc.

      One of the things looked for is an innate feel for putting things together & problem solving to the clients needs & wants using design language & rationale.

      Go to an art supply store & price out portfolios & get the best one you can afford - save to get it if you have to, cause you will be using this portfolio in your career for many years. It doesn't have to be a huge presentation size, by the way. You may not need that till college.

      If you know how to do hand renderings, this will be a plus for you. I actually taught myself how to do floor plans by hand when I was in middle school, learned how to color my plans too. (Perspective drawing is important to learn too - you can start practicing that too by investing in some books at the bookstore or through Amazon). Computer renderings are great, but I still like to "get into" the room with paper & pencil & pen.

      The more books you can read about the mechanics of design, the better. Learn as much as yu can about scale & balance. And practice, practice, practice!!!

  12. QUESTION:
    Interior Design Portfolio?
    I have an interview for interior design in a month's time - I was curious however about the portfolio I have to take with me. Does I need to include both interior and art work I have done and how much should I put in? Any help is appreciated!

    • ANSWER:
      the first question would be, what do you mean by an interview for interior design? are you going to school, or are you getting a job in interior design?
      If it's for school, no you don't usually need any ID work, but obviously if you're looking for a job/internship/etc for ID then yes because that's the main objective.
      In terms of number, usually in a portfolio 10-15 is good

  13. QUESTION:
    What are FIT portfolio requirements for Interior Design major for 2010-2011?
    I am trying to apply for FIT interior design program, but I am very busy with work and current college and I was wondering if anybody know specific FIT portfolio requirements for Interior Design major for 2010-2011.

    • ANSWER:
      pls be more clear, so you can get answers what you wanted

  14. QUESTION:
    Interior design portfolio ?? PLEASE HELP .. im desperatee?
    Im a senior in higschool right now and im seriously considering taking up interior design in college.. But in order to apply, i need to have a portfolio ready.. i just have NO idea what should be on there :/
    And its seriously worrying me because i feel clueless.. I have like 3 months until my deadline, is that enough time?? And what do i need to have in my portfolio ??

    Help? Anyone? PLEASEE?

    • ANSWER:
      Contact me privately stephanieburtis@gmail.com. I can help.

  15. QUESTION:
    Interior Design Portfolio to enter college. Help Please.?
    PLEASE READ: So I'm a Junior in High School and this is around the time where getting ready for college is very hectic! I want to go to a University to Major in Interior design and one of the requirements to even be able to get accepted into the college is to have a Portfolio. I don't even know where to start and i'm very confused. Here are some of my questions:

    1) What should an Interior Design Portfolio even consist of if I'm only 17 and have very little experiece in this area?

    2) When should I apply for college? And what should I do to prepare myself because i'm very nervous and confused. (any website links on helpful info would also be appreciated.)

    ***PLEASE ONLY ANSWER THIS QUESTION IF YOU HAVE EXPERIENCE IN INTERIOR DESIGN OR KNOW FOR A FACT WHAT HAS TO BE DONE. IF YOU ANSWER THIS QUESTION PLEASE PROVIDE THE SOURCE OF YOUR INFORMATION.*** Thanks in advance.

    • ANSWER:
      a portfolio for the Interior Design department of a college shouldn't be so hard .Cos at the end you have zero experience in designing right ? so you have to create a visual or digital portfolio of whatever you designed till now..it doesn't need to be professional but at least you have to show that you have the TALENT !! it can be your basic sketches, black white freehand drawings ,simple drafting samples if you ever experienced ,maybe something you designed ( a wall ,painting ..etc ) ...etc..so any material that connects you to be an interior designer can be appreciated in this portfolio..But don't forget whether it's a digital portfolio or visual pront-out ,you have to design your portfolio as well !!! that's soooo important more than what you have inside..if it's digital use sofwares like photoshop ,create nice templates and should be continious from one page to another ; if it's a print out they have to be same size nicely covered ,choose nice colors !!

      if you don't have any material for instance ,please start to create your own portfolio pages...start a drafting course ,or an art course..paint ,color ,design anything,take lots of pictures around..etc..collect your sources then it'll be easier when it comes to applying ..

      good luck !!

  16. QUESTION:
    Interior design degree portfolio?
    I'm currently at college (UK College) finishing my A Levels. I want to do a degree in interior design, I think i'll have the UCAS points to do that because i'm predicted BBB in Sociology Media and English. But all universities require a portfolio where I can show them design and 3D design skills for the course, I emailed them and they said use what projects you've done in your A Levels but obviously I'm not doing art. What should I do?

    • ANSWER:
      Reply back and indicate that you are not doing art and ask for their advice./

  17. QUESTION:
    I'm applying to an art school for Interior design, and a portfolio is required?
    what should the portfolio consist of? I have a bunch of artwork (drawings, paintings, photography even) but i have a feeling that none of those would be acceptable in the interior design field.

    here's the school I would like to attend: http://www.newschool.edu/parsons/subpage.aspx?id=29969

    • ANSWER:
      Yes a portfolio is made up of the works that you have done in the past, those artwork that you have mentioned would be relevant in the context of interior design.

  18. QUESTION:
    What is the purpose and contents of a portfolio in interior design?

    • ANSWER:
      A portfolio in interior design is important because it will enable you as designer to show off your accomplished works and designs throughout the years. This will prove valuable once you start looking for clients and are required to present your work for them to evaluate your capabilities and designs.

      As mentioned, you will put your relevant works as a designer in your portfolio. This will include blueprints, photos of the designed interior space, and testimonials from your previous clients, if you have any. One way of producing a portfolio is to publish it on websites that allows you to share documents online. By doing so, it will increase your profile visibility and attract more potential clients.

  19. QUESTION:
    How do I prepare a portfolio for admission to an interior design program w/o any design background?
    I want to become an interior designer and have no art or design background. Understandably, all of the accreditated schools that I've researched require a portfolio. How can I go about putting together a worthy portfolio to these schools without having to attend a second rate institution for some art background? Is it really important what school you attend? What is better? A university, an art institute, a college? What's the difference?

    • ANSWER:
      I'm not in the field, but a suggestion I'd offer to you would be to call up the admissions office for a school you're interested in and explain your situation and ask what it is they'd look for in an applicant. They'll know what they want, and then you can try to put something together to submit to them.

  20. QUESTION:
    interior design portfolio?
    I have a unique living area and limited decorating budget, how do I find someone that is trying to build their portfolio or add another dimension to their current portfolio? I'm thinking a design student or a student trying to get into design school maybe? Do design schools have listings or billboards or someway I could find an interested person in helping me out? I would prefer not having to post pictures online. Is there maybe a free program online I could use to add some ideas and toss those back and forth with someone?

    • ANSWER:
      You don't specifiy exactly what it is you wish to do in your living room, however, yes there are some free online software tools you can use. If it is a question of furniture placement, try Icovia room planner. Free and easy to use. Sherwin Williams has a room/color visualizer that can help you see what your room would look like in different colors. Shaw Floors has a feature that allows you to try various rugs by using your own photos or testing them out on their various rooms. If you simply need decorating inspiration ideas, HGTV.com has lots of designer rooms broken down by type (kitchen, bedroom, kids, etc). Also, if you know someone that photoshops that can give you a real visual. One person I have worked with on my site is VirtualRoomPreviews@gmail.com I don't know what she charges for a basic layout, but I don't think it's much. Good luck!

  21. QUESTION:
    What to put in my Interior Architecture/Design portfolio?
    Hi all... In my mid 20's currently living in London, however will be moving back to Melbourne to live and study Interior Design or Interior Architecture. I want to start working on my portfolio, but am VERY lost as to what I should put in it? Uni's seem very broad on requirements (show creativity!) - should there mainly be perspectives and elevations of interiors? should I combine ideas on exteriors as well? Do you focus on one idea from different angles or a bunch of different concepts? Do you include random sketches as well? photos of inspirational buildings? Any clarification would be appreciated....

    Also, do you know if, as a mature student, my work would need to be a higher level then potential students straight from High school?

    Does anyone know of any great differences between a degree in Interior Architecture as opposed to a degree in Interior Design?

    And lastly, can anyone recommend the better universities in Melbourne for Int. Design and Architecture?
    Thank you so much for your help....

    • ANSWER:
      The key to any portfolio to show to a school for acceptance is to show your ability to learn. It is not always good to show all your best work. Random sketches are always good to show as a separate piece in the portfolio. Most architectural and interior schools will take someone who can sketch very well despite their lack of knowledge in the field.
      Good Luck.

  22. QUESTION:
    How can i start a portfolio to submit for a scholarship towards an interior design school?
    I am a senior in high school and plan to study interior design. I realized that most scholarships want to see a portfolio of your work, and i never thought about it. I have no idea on how to start or what should be included in it. any help is appreciated:]♥

    • ANSWER:
      You should not put everything you have ever done in your portfolio, if your portfolio is too big then schools won't have enough time to look at it all anyway. They just can't spare enough time to look at every single page. You should choose a few projects that you are especially proud of, show the whole process from start to finish so that they can get an idea of how you work. Digital photos can be used alongside floor plans and sketches. Lay it out so that it's easy to understand and looks nice.

      I wouldn't include any more than twenty pages in your portfolio. You should also include examples of your CAD work, drawings and anything else that separates you from the other students. You want your portfolio to sell yourself.

  23. QUESTION:
    Sims 3: Ambitions - interior design portfolio - not full?
    Hi.
    So in the game I am an interior designer. During the beginning of the job I was asked to take pictures of my jobs; sometimes I would be asked to take a picture even though I missed a wall without paint. Now I am at the top level, 10, and I only have 70% complete in my portfolio. I've already tried to just take a picture anyway then drag it into the portfolio, but that doesn't count, and it doesn't change the portfolio percentage.

    How can I get the client to allow me to take a picture? How can I complete my portfolio?

    • ANSWER:
      Are you sure this is a visual arts question? Try re-asking this in the computer categories or games. You may get more help there.

  24. QUESTION:
    How should I order my design portfolio?
    I am putting together a portfolio of my interior design work for Grad school. Would it be better to put the finished colorful illustrations first and then back it up with the floor plans and sketches, or should I start out with the floor plans and sketches and lead up to the finial piece. Any opinions would be great thank you so much. : )

    • ANSWER:
      If you are present when your portfolio is being looked at I would suggest having the preparatory work first, so you can introduce the project, outlining the brief, describe your interpretation and research, maybe include rejected concepts and build up to the final project.

  25. QUESTION:
    i want to pursue a career in Interior Design, what should be in my portfolio?
    I'm in 11th grade and I have had a drawing/painting class, mixed media, ceramics/pottery, a photograpy/dig editing class, and architecture/drafting class @ school.
    Would a portfolio including pieces from each of those classes be helpful?
    Or what exactly are they looking for?
    (i want to go to a college that specializes in Interior Design, like NYSID or an artschool like Art Institute of San Fransisco or Parsons...)

    • ANSWER:
      Find a local firm and call them up. Tell them you're interested in becoming an interior designer, and see if anyone has time they can set aside to talk to you. Doing research into a field you're thinking about going into is a very smart idea.

  26. QUESTION:
    Is a portfolio required to enter the interior design course at london metropolitan university?

    • ANSWER:
      http://metropolitician.blogs.com/scribblings_of_the_metrop/the_photo_essays/index.html

      http://www.bida.org/careerinfo.htm

      http://www.londonkoreanlinks.net/blog/2007/06/

      search in

      www.google.com
      www.bearflix.com
      www.ask.com

  27. QUESTION:
    Do you have to have a portfolio to be accepted into a college for an interior design major?
    I am thinking about becoming an interior designer, however I would have nothing to put in a portfolio if I needed one to be accepted into a college.
    Thanks for the help.

    • ANSWER:
      If you don't have a folio, you can always make yourself seem 'committed' to the field to make up for it.

      For example, go and set yourself a project related to Interior Design and work on that.

      Join Architecture blogs such as Archinteye (www.archinteye.com) and keep aware of the industry.

      And finally, when you are presenting yourself in an interview, you will be able to look knowledgeable in all regards.

      Use your creativity, after all, this is the field of Design we are talking about...

  28. QUESTION:
    how do i make a Portfolio for interior design class?

    • ANSWER:

  29. QUESTION:
    making a portfolio for interior design...anyone know what i would put in it?
    It's for a scholarship...
    Submit your best designer portfolio to be judged for not only creativity, but also the cohesiveness of your collection.
    THats th description...what exactly would i put in a portfolio?

    • ANSWER:
      Photos of your designs. See the link below for portfolio examples.

  30. QUESTION:
    Do I need a portfolio to go to college for interior design?
    If yes, what would I need in it?

    • ANSWER:
      No. You go to college to get the tools and abilities to make a portfolio.

  31. QUESTION:
    Interior Design.....?
    I am 17 and trying to prepare a portfolio to enter college for interior design.

    1) What do Colleges look for in a portfolio? (Do they want to see drawings? Pretty pictures? Blue prints & Sketches? Homes you've decorated?)

    2) What helpful advice would you give someone trying to enter the Interior Design business?

    • ANSWER:
      every college has different interests as far as what they want to see in your portfolio. no design college expects you to go into your desired field already, otherwise why are you even applying to a school. that being said they look for skills such as:

      shading- whether or not you have an eye for darks and lights

      detail- your commitment to your work by how much effort you put into it

      composition- do you know what shapes, color, etc are aesthetically pleasing

      again, each school will have their own system of judging and what they want from you. this stuff isn't as scary as it may seem. colleges look for your more at your potential for growth as a designer and less at what you already know. they want to know that this isn't just something that you've spent a single weekend thinking about. as long as you show them that you can learn and you're commited you're golden.

  32. QUESTION:
    Do I need to submit a portfolio when applying to colleges as an interior design major?
    specifically california colleges

    • ANSWER:
      That will depend on the college. I'd say that many will and you should select four or so schools you're considering and to the interior design department website for each and find out. Don't wait until the last minute to start putting the portfolio together. Folios created at the last minute tend to look thrown together.

      Cal State Fresno has a really, really good interior design program.

      http://www.csufresno.edu/artanddesign/homepage.html

      For more accredited interior design programs in Cali, check this out.

      http://www.accredit-id.org/accreditedprograms.html#california

  33. QUESTION:
    How do I make a portfolio to get into interior design?
    well first i'm just wondering what kind of things i should put into my portfolio when i wish to get into a program for interior design.

    also how would i present my portfolio, since i am applying to different universities which require a portfolio? would i just photocopy a number of my things and put them together, make the best one i can make with a lot of creativity and send it to one school (shipping it to the other one once done if that's even possible), make it on the computer like powerpoint or a digital portfolio for adobe reader (PDF) using adobe acrobat (or whatever it's called)...or none of these? i'm not sure where to go and I need some guidance
    oh one more thing, this is to get into university//college!!! sorry i forgot to mention!

    • ANSWER:
      I'm a creative director and I get hundreds of portfolios a month. I recommend sending something short and sweet. Make a pdf format with 5 to 8 of your best work. On page 1 of the pdf, do a brief intro. A powerpoint would be nice, but to be honest with you, not all software can open a powerpoint. I work on a MAC and I have problems opening a PC powerpoint. PDF can easily be opened on both PC and MACs. Good luck to you, I'm sure you'll do a great job.

  34. QUESTION:
    I was applying to school for interior design what basic things will they be looking for in a portfolio?

    • ANSWER:

  35. QUESTION:
    How to get into interior design field ?
    I hold a BA(Hons) in Interior Architecture, Interior and Furniture Design and have almost 10 years experience. Unfortunately, none of these years were spent in the interior design, only in architectural design. So now, I am a very skilled architect who wishes desperately to get into the field she was trained for, but nobody hires her for lack of experience. I don't even have an interior design portfolio (obviously, since I haven't done any work in this field). I am even willing to start at entry level, and still no replies. I wrote to small and big companies, pleading for a chance but still nothing. I am at the end of my wits, don't know what to do next. I've contemplated doing one of those short online courses to get a British qualification (a Level 4 at least), but it seems like such a waste, I already hold a BA in the field! I've tried to get my diploma recognised by a British University - it's still there, being checked - but I have no much hope. They will probably tell me I need to do another year or so and that would mean a whole lot of money I don't have. I need a hand to get out of this situation and I have no idea what to do. Help!

    • ANSWER:

  36. QUESTION:
    What do graduate schools look for in a portfolio for industrial design?
    I used to attend the fashion institute of technology for interior design. Now I go to a large university where I study Integrative Arts. I am looking into grad schools for the 2009/2010 school year. So I have a little less than a year to prepare before I apply. I want to know what specific things I should include in my portfolio. I have an Interior Design portfolio, but nothing recent and I need to know specific projects I should start making in order to really wow the schools I am applying to. Any suggestions?

    • ANSWER:
      how many projects have u done, outside the class? any internships? man..that pretty much it

  37. QUESTION:
    INTERIoR DESIGN!!?
    which university/college is best for interior design please.. which has the best reputation + job prospects AND pls what is expected in the portfolio.. detail please.. thank you very much x
    which university/college is best for interior design please.. which has the best reputation + job prospects but i wud like to see my options in order of which is best rep + job prospect wise and then rep + job prospects + which has a more mixed race student congregation (i would rather a boiling pot than be the only black person there) but make sure you tell me which is best and why AND pls what is expected in the portfolio.. detail please.. thank you very much x
    p.s.s i want to do interior decor so which is directed more to interior decor way than design??

    • ANSWER:
      You may wish to consider the University of the Arts London which is a federation of 6 metropolitan art colleges. http://www.arts.ac.uk

      Outside London you may also wish think about one of the institutions in the CADISE consortium (a grouping of independent art and design colleges) http://www.cadise.ac.uk

  38. QUESTION:
    where online can view design portfolio's of interior designers to get some ideas on how i shoud build mine

    • ANSWER:
      you will find everything here - the examples and instructions
      you can also make your portfolio here

  39. QUESTION:
    What do I have to include in my portflio to apply for an interior design course at uni?
    On the entry requirements page, it says you need to have a portfolio to show them but whats a portfolio? what do I do? I'm so confused Im in year 11 and I'll be taking 4 A levels, Art & Design, Spanish, Business studies and Religious studies, so how am I supposed to make a portfolio to apply for an interior design course when I've never studied it before? please help! x

    • ANSWER:
      ohhhh, Beautiful doe eyes..

      darling. go to your head of school. yr art teachers, and ask them to help you put together a collection of your best arts works, from over the past few years.... this is a portfolio.
      - include references, teachers, work experience etc.
      also school reports, and references to things that you may have done extra curricularily,
      you want to be able to show them that you are super interested, and the best person to have in their class.

      you may also try going to other uni's etc, and asking them what sort of things you should inc.

      and don't be afraid to speak directly to the design dept of the uni of choice.

  40. QUESTION:
    How would I go about getting a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design?
    I will be an Int'l student and have taken TOEFL. In 1 year I would have completed my undergrad studies from India in Commerce field (bcom) and i already hold a diploma in Interiors. I am working currently and have completed one year at my current job with an impressive portfolio. Now to further enhance my design skills and gain a wider perceptive, I am seeking a Bachelors degree in Interior Design and I was wondering if it would require a SAT. I want to get the course done in 2 years at max, as i already have a diploma, i might not have to take all courses. Which universities offer such program and how much would they cost? Also are they reputed and Accredited colleges? If it would be close to New Jersey it would be awesome.. Thanks for helping me make an important decision in my life.

    • ANSWER:
      I recommend getting this book, it provides full listing of the best interior design programs in the country and what requirements are they looking for. It will answer all your questions, and answer them well too.
      Here's the link for it if you want to purchase the downloaded version:
      http://www.di.net/archschools/schools.html

  41. QUESTION:
    Does anyone have a good idea for a graphic design portfolio?
    Hi.

    Im making a graphic design portfolio.

    It needs to include:

    12 designs aka at least 12 pages long

    So far, I purchased a whole bunch of paper, but I have to design the cover and the interior as well.. have any ideas on what I should do?
    so far ***

    • ANSWER:
      Try redesigning an ad, or packaging for existing products. Maybe some 3d paper engineering (photograph it).
      Find a sentence that means something to you and illustrate it graphically, like for an article about that sentence. For example "Give peace a chance", "Reduce, reuse recycle" "Carpe diem".
      Typographic exercise for above.
      Christmas or birthday cards.
      Business cards and stationery for yourself!
      Type/layout - do a two page spread for a magazine...redasign an existing one.
      Point of sale concept for a groovy product.

      There's sooooo much you can do!

      Good luck!

  42. QUESTION:
    i am going to be a senior in highschool, and wants to major in interior design, what should i do as?
    preperation? btw, i haven't taken any art classes. what should i do? If i want to go to a design school, am i going to have to turn in an art portfolio (for interior designing)?

    • ANSWER:
      I majored in Interior Design for my bachelor's degree and I hadn't had ANY art classes prior either. My school did ask for a portfolio, but I was also a transfer student trying to skip first year classes. But in any case, even if they do ask for a portfolio, they understand that people don't often have prior abilities, they usually just want to guage what kind of abilities you would be coming in with. You still have to take art or rendering types of classes, so you will learn the skills you need within the program. For my portfolio, I had included a couple of sketches that I drew specifically for the portfolio, some photographs from a photography class I had taken, and some poetry/written work. As for preparation, be aware that interior design is a lot harder than most people think. It goes beyond just decoration (it'll make you cringe once you're an interior designer and see people who call themselves "interior designers" just becuase they think they can pick out pretty curtains! haha) and it takes a LOT of time and effort. Be prepared to work long hours in studio, buy a lot of art and architecture supplies, and have a lot of people misunderstand what you actually do (architecture students/architects sometimes won't respect your abilities and others will constantly ask you what color of throw pillows they should buy). However, if you love it as much as I did, it will totally all be worth it.

  43. QUESTION:
    Does anypone know of a interior design grad of Fanshawe that would want to help me in redocorating?
    I want to redocorate a few rooms in my house and would like to use a recent grad of interior design that wants to get some experience, build up their portfolio and save me some $. Is their anyone that you would reccomend?

    • ANSWER:
      i dont know how to design interior but i know how to design houses

  44. QUESTION:
    How easy would it be for an 18 year old to start a home based interior design business?
    I want to start my own interior design business, ive already done a couple of projects for a portfolio, and started on my business plan, just wondering what else i need to be thinking about, any help here please?

    • ANSWER:
      Good for you. Already done some "demo work" and you're writing a business plan. Now, map out budgets, sales goals, etc. Put together some marketing collateral and get out there to start selling/promoting your business. You seem to be a go-getter with good communication skills so you're ahead of the game. Age doesn't matter but to be sure, dress and act a little conservative and a little older. Your potential clients may have more faith and belief in you if you look about 25. Don't be afraid to CHARGE for your work accordingly and raise you prices substantially each year.

  45. QUESTION:
    What are universities with good interior design programs?
    I want to get a bachelor's degree in interior design. I absolutely DO NOT want to go to an art/design school. I want a large, well rounded university with lots of options like the university of texas. I have a few schools in mind, I just wanted to explore my options.

    Also, I know some schools want to see a portfolio with your application, so if you could let me know if the school requires that or not, that would be awwwwesome.

    • ANSWER:
      Look into large universities in your home state. They will be your best bet and they will not cost an arm and a leg. It is good to see someone with their head screwed on straight for once. A large state university will offer you the well rounded education that you hope to earn and you will have many options most large state universities have over 150 majors to chose from and wonderful study abroad programs! I hope this helps good luck with finding a good school!

  46. QUESTION:
    How do I build an Interior Design Porfolio for school if my background is not in art or a related field?
    I have a BA in Psychology and am looking to pursue my passion in Interior Design. However, I'm finding that building a portfolio is a challenge because I don't have an art background or any projects to photograph. Are there any suggestions as to where I should start?

    • ANSWER:
      I know this probably isn't what you want to hear, but you should really start by getting some sort of interior design certification - at least a career diploma - from an accredited institution. By doing this you will be able to begin a portfolio using your coursework, plus any real-world experience you can arrange as a student.

      Having a passion for interior design and knowing what looks good isn't going to be enough to build a career on. Your professional reputation and level of success will depend on your ability to prove to potential clients and/or employers that you have the knowledge, skill and talent to do the job.

      http://www.openstudycollege.com/courses/aset-interior-design.html

  47. QUESTION:
    I want to go to college for interior design, can you help?
    I thnk they want me to submit a portfolio.
    but i have never drawn plans out for interior designs or is this for like kids who have already been in college and they want to get bach degree? I want to to to college in New York. Like FIT or New York School of Interior Design. HELP!!
    I AM ONLY IN 11TH GRADE.

    • ANSWER:

  48. QUESTION:
    Anyone know of students in interior design who do practicum?
    I was wondering if there are student interior decorators who will do some designs for a small fee which they can use for their portfolio. How much do most students ask for? I'm thinking of asking for a designer's help but can't afford the high professional fees.

    • ANSWER:
      I'm a young interior designer - a year out of school - and know I'd enjoy working on something for a nominal fee. It's fun to exercise your creative skills and a lot of young designers are working day jobs as drafters/more technical positions until they put time into the company they're with.

  49. QUESTION:
    I started a small interior design firm last year in South Florida. How can I best promote my business?
    I've been a designer in Chicago for the past 4 years, but the slow economy brought me back home to Florida where I've started my own design firm. I have a great portfolio and my new business website is set up, I just can't seem to get anyone to look at them! How can I attract quality clients? I've thought about advertising, but am just now sure where to sink my money?

    • ANSWER:
      promote your business online through Google Local Business Center.Its free.
      Promote your business through social websites (facebook-twitter e.t.c.)

  50. QUESTION:
    what kind of a portfolio do i need to have to enter florance design academy? interior desingn..?
    i plannig to enter a 3 year program in inerior design next year at F.D.A and i wish to have some info about the school and stuff..i have a lot of qustions to ask hahaha..if i ask them all i fil the page .. so pls help mee!!.. 10xx

    • ANSWER:
      my portfolio is everythink iv done. Just take Everythink thats good uv have done, in my case i took lots of renderings of sketchs, also i took in some life drawing. U should ALWAYS add to your portfolio. iv collected sketchs from highschool > college > uni and it shows a big difference when u try for a job. Portfolio aint needs to be loads, but bascially have all your best going into it, also make it continious/flowing like in my case Architecture > interior design > Big scale > Small Scale. Start building your portfolio now, i have an A2 , A3, A1 size of them.


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