What Is Interior Design?

Interior design is a distinct profession with specialized knowledge applied to the planning and design of interior environments that promote health, safety, and welfare while supporting and enhancing the human experience.

Founded upon design and human behavior theories and research, interior designers apply evidence-based methodologies to identify, analyze, and synthesize information in generating holistic, technical, creative, and contextually-appropriate design solutions.

What Interior Designers Do

NCIDQ Certified interior designers are qualified through education, experience, and examination to design spaces that meet code requirements and enhance the quality of life.

Their work includes:

Space Planning

Organizing interior layouts to support functionality and safety

Material & Furniture Selection

Choosing finishes, furniture, fixtures, and equipment that are durable, sustainable, and appropriate

Lighting & Acoustics

Designing systems that enhance comfort, accessibility, and usability

Code Compliance

Ensuring designs meet building, fire, energy, and life-safety codes

Project Documentation

Creating detailed plans and construction documents for permitting and implementation

Collaboration & Coordination

Working closely with architects, engineers, and consultants to bring designs to life

The Interior Design Process

Interior design typically includes these key phases:

Discovery & Programming

Organizing interior layouts to support functionality and safety

Concept Development

Creating design concepts rooted in research, creativity, and client needs

Design Development & Selections

Selecting materials, finishes, furnishings, and equipment

Documentation

Preparing technical drawings and specifications for permits and construction

Coordination

Aligning interior plans with work from engineers, architects, and other consultants

Project Management

Managing timelines, budgets, and contract administration through construction

Post-Occupancy Evaluation

Assessing project outcomes via occupant feedback or performance reviews

Why Certification Matters

NCIDQ Certification is the industry’s recognized credential for professional competency in interior design. It demonstrates a designer’s expertise in protecting public health, safety, and welfare—and is required for licensure in many U.S. states and Canadian provinces.

Space Planning

Organizing interior layouts to support functionality and safety

Material & Furniture Selection

Choosing finishes, furniture, fixtures, and equipment that are durable, sustainable, and appropriate

Lighting & Acoustics

Designing systems that enhance comfort, accessibility, and usability

Code Compliance

Ensuring designs meet building, fire, energy, and life-safety codes

Project Documentation

Creating detailed plans and construction documents for permitting and implementation

Collaboration & Coordination

Working closely with architects, engineers, and consultants to bring designs to life

Learn More

Download our Full Definition of Interior Design document.

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