What to Do With an Interior Design Diploma: 10+ Career Paths You Might Not Have Considered

Ever wondered whether getting an interior design diploma is actually worth it? Or perhaps you’ve already got one under your belt, but you’re staring into the abyss of “what now?” wondering how to turn that qualification into a career?

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you’re absolutely in the right place.

Contrary to what your neighbour’s cousin might think, interior design is not just about plumping cushions and picking the perfect shade of Farrow & Ball. I know, I know. That’s the perception. But the truth is, this profession goes so much deeper than surface aesthetics.

Interior design is a multi-faceted career that requires technical knowledge, creativity, problem-solving, and a hefty dose of project management skills. And that diploma you’ve earned? It opens far more doors than most people realise.

Let’s Talk About the Misconceptions

One of the biggest myths about interior design is that it’s just decorating. A bit of moodboarding, maybe a Pinterest scroll or two, and off you go.

But anyone who’s studied interior design knows there’s so much more to it. We’re talking space planning, lighting design, building regulations, sustainability, and understanding how materials behave in real-life environments. Not to mention navigating client briefs, coordinating with contractors, and managing timelines and budgets.

It’s a lot. And it’s what makes our work so powerful.

But once you’ve gained those skills, what’s next?

Feeling Stuck After Your Diploma? You’re Not Alone

I speak to students all the time who finish their diploma and suddenly feel… well, a bit stuck. You’ve learned all these new skills, but working out how to translate them into a career can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve got a full-time job already, or you’re juggling family commitments. Maybe you’re unsure whether you should go freelance or look for a studio role.

Here’s the truth: interior design isn’t one-size-fits-all. And that’s a good thing. Your diploma doesn’t limit you… it gives you options.

Let’s have a look at just a few of them.

10+ Exciting Career Paths You Can Take With an Interior Design Diploma

1. Start Your Own Interior Design Business

This is the route many of our students at The Interior Designers Hub choose to take. Running your own studio gives you complete creative freedom. You get to decide which projects to take on, set your own schedule, and build a brand that reflects your personality and values.

Yes, it takes work. But I can say from personal experience, it can completely change your life.

2. Join a Design Studio

Prefer the idea of working in a team first? While some studios ask for degree qualifications, a strong portfolio and the right attitude can absolutely get you through the door with a diploma. It’s a brilliant way to gain experience and learn from others while developing your own style.

3. Interior Styling

If you’ve got an eye for accessories, detail, and storytelling through visual design, styling might be your calling. Think magazine shoots, show homes, editorial content, and home staging. Many stylists also write for interiors publications, so if you love the idea of pairing visuals with words, this is one to explore.

4. Design Assistant Roles

Being an assistant is a great way to get into the industry and learn how projects run behind the scenes. You’ll help with procurement, supplier liaison, admin, and client presentations. It’s a brilliant stepping stone and can help you figure out which parts of the job you love most.

5. Project Management in Interior Design

Some designers prefer the organisational side of things: keeping a project on track, managing contractors, and liaising with clients. If that sounds like you, project management could be a perfect fit. We always recommend some extra training in this area, but your design diploma gives you the insider understanding you’ll need.

Many designers actually outsource their project management, so there’s real opportunity here.

6. 3D Visualisation

Love the techy side of design? 3D visualisers are in high demand. They create photo-realistic renders to help clients and designers visualise a space before it’s built. If you enjoy software like SketchUp and have an eye for detail, this could be a lucrative path for you.

7. Home Staging

Home staging is all about preparing properties for sale, styling them in a way that makes buyers fall in love. It’s fast-paced, creative, and perfect if you like working to a brief with quick turnarounds.

8. Sustainable Design Consulting

Eco-conscious clients are actively seeking designers who understand how to reduce environmental impact. If you’re passionate about green living, you could specialise in sustainable materials, low-energy design solutions, and healthier interiors.

9. Product and Furniture Design

Ever thought of designing your own line of furniture or accessories? Your understanding of space, function, and aesthetics is the perfect foundation for product design. Many interior designers end up collaborating with brands or launching their own ranges.

10. Colour Consultancy

If colour makes your heart sing, this is a niche to consider. Colour consultants specialise in the psychology and technical use of colour across residential and commercial spaces. It’s a beautiful blend of art and science.

11. Commercial Interiors

Retail, hospitality, and office design each have their own unique challenges and rewards. These projects are often bigger in scale and involve deeper levels of planning and compliance, but they can be incredibly fulfilling.

How Do You Choose the Right Path?

It all starts with self-awareness. Ask yourself:

• What part of my training lit me up the most?
• Do I prefer fast-paced projects or long-term ones?
• Am I happiest working alone or with a team?
• How much flexibility do I want in my working week?
• What kind of lifestyle am I designing this career around?

Once you’ve got a sense of where you’re heading, start curating a portfolio that reflects that. If you’re leaning towards 3D visualisation, showcase your renders. If you love styling, pull together photographs of your vignettes or set-ups. A targeted portfolio is far more powerful than a general one.

And finally, look at what further training might support your goals. Your diploma is the foundation, but specialised courses can help you refine your niche and really stand out.

So, Is an Interior Design Diploma Worth It?

Absolutely. But it’s not the end of the journey… it’s the beginning.

That qualification is your passport into a flexible, creative, and evolving career. It’s your invitation to find work that fits not only your skills, but your life. Whether that’s in styling, design, visualisation, or consultancy, there is a path that’s right for you.

Over to You…

Which of these career paths excites you most? I’d love to know where you see yourself going next, or if there’s a direction you’re curious about that I haven’t covered.

Taking that first step towards a new career can feel daunting, but remember that every successful designer started somewhere. Our diploma isn't just about gaining qualifications, it's about building the confidence and skills you need to thrive in this industry. Whether you're looking to completely change direction or simply add another string to your bow, we're here to support you every step of the way. Have a look through our prospectus, and if you have any questions at all, just reach out. Your design journey is personal, and we're here to help you navigate it in a way that works for you.

Until next time!

Kate x