Interior design is the study and practice of improving the interior of a structure to create a more aesthetically pleasant environment for those using the room. An interior designer is a person who studies, designs, plans, and coordinates such improvement projects. In an increasingly visualized environment, interior design has become a very important component of building and home design. Interior designers are in constant demand due to the increase in residential construction and renovation activity. They must be skilled at managing multiple projects at one time and must be able to plan and coordinate a project from beginning to end.

The planning process of the interior design project begins with an analysis of the room’s existing and future use. This planning involves a complete assessment of the function of the room and an evaluation of the existing site conditions. This assessment is also important in determining the materials required and the cost of those materials. Site conditions should be carefully considered, as changing soil, vegetation, heat, or water availability could drastically alter the feasibility of any construction or renovation project. Another important factor is budgeting, which requires an accurate and well-planned analysis of the available financial resources for such a project.

The choice of paint, wallpaper, flooring, lighting, furnishings, rugs, cabinets, countertops, appliances, and accessories must all be selected to coordinate with the overall color scheme. Colors and themes may be combined for a particular look. Interiors designers often take input from the client in selecting flooring material, wallpaper, and paint color. Furnishings are usually chosen first, followed by cabinet designs, while appliances and accessories are usually last. When selecting an interior designer, it is important to choose someone with a high level of expertise in the field to ensure proper execution of the designer’s interior design scheme.

An interior designer’s goal is to create an attractive, functional interior space that meets the needs of the client. An interior designer does not create a product but rather a process by which a product is developed. The final product is then presented to the client for approval and budget approval. The interior designer should have a good understanding of human anatomy, psychology, art history, construction science, architecture, and related technical subjects.

In most states, licensure is required before interior designers can practice. In most states, licensure is granted by Department of Interior based upon the National Council for Interior Design accreditation. Interior designers who wish to become licensed must successfully pass both the examination and the board exam. Although licensure requirements vary from state to state, most require students to have a degree in an appropriate field such as architecture, business, horticulture, nursing, or psychology before being eligible to take the exam. After successfully passing the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam, applicants become eligible to sit for the NCIDQ exam. Applicants may apply for licensure on their own or through a third-party organization.

Asymmetry, another important factor, is a crucial factor in successful interior design projects because without balance there will be unbalanced design elements. This means that the room will lack in harmony and appearance. However, balance is not only important in interior design, it is equally important in business, architecture, and other fields. The balance in the design project must meet the needs and desires of the customer. Achieving a balanced result requires careful planning and the use of special effects and lighting.