6 Interior Design Schools That Will Help You Achieve Career Goals
It starts with an education
Do you dream of becoming the next Kelly Wearstler or Frank Lloyd Wright one day? We all have to start somewhere, and just about anyone in the interior design profession will tell you that somewhere should be a solid foundation grounded in a rigorous, all-encompassing education. Here, I’ve done the ground work and rounded up of six of the best interior design schools in the world. Now all you have to do is take the plunge and apply.
New York School of Interior Design
Founded in 1916, the New York School of Interior Design is somewhat of a veteran in training the interior stars of tomorrow. Focused exclusively on interior design education, it’s a top ranking school set in one of the most exciting and inspirational cities in the world. Where can I sign up?
The Details
Location: New York.
Notable Alumni: David Scott, Mariette Himes Gomez and Susan Zises Green.
Application Deadline: February 1 (Fall Semester); October 1 (Spring Semester).
Florence Design Academy
Florence Design Academy is famous for being one of the best design schools in Europe, mostly thanks to its stellar teaching fellows who are all professionals of the real world of design. The fact that Florence is one of the most beautiful centers of historical architecture probably doesn’t hurt either.
The Details
Location: Florence.
Important Dates: The school offers two independent start dates; January and September.
Parsons School of Design
Known for establishing America’s first ever interior design curriculum in 1906, Parsons has historical prestige on its side. But that’s not all – critical thinking and collaboration are at the heart of a Parsons education, so budding interior designers can be sure they’ll be receiving a rigorous schooling that will challenge them to grow and think independently.
The Details
Location: New York.
Notable Alumni: Jamie Drake, Eleanor McMillen Brown and Mario Buatta.
Application Deadlines: November 1 (Early Application); January 15 (Regular Application); October 15 (Spring Term Application).
Rhode Island School of Design
RISD (pronounced ‘Riz-dee’) has long stood out as something of a maverick among design schools. Not only is it one of the first independent colleges of art and design in the US, it was founded by a group of women some 40 years before women had even gained the right to vote. With courses covering interior design and architecture, this one’s for the ingenues who dream of breaking boundaries.
The Details
Location: Rhode Island.
Notable Alumni: Michael Gabellini and Ira Rakatansky.
Application Deadlines: 1 November (Early Application); 1 February (Regular Application).
Pratt Institute
With an alumni roster that includes the likes of Lou Switzer and William Van Alen, it’s no wonder Pratt Institute is a popular choice for budding interior designers and architects. What’s more, Pratt Institute is dedicated to educating its artists and creative professionals to be responsible contributors to society – a conscientious mission statement that I can fully get behind.
The Details
Location: New York.
Notable Alumni: Laura Bohn, Naomi Leff, Lou Switzer and William Van Alen.
Application Deadlines: November 1 (Early Application); January 29 (Regular Application).
The Interior Design School
For a hands-on approach to studying interior design, look no further than The Interior Design School. Boasting an evolving and responsive program of studio-based professional training, the school emphasizes practical experience as well as theory. Students also have the opportunity to work alongside established interior designers – perfect for building up those all important connections!
The Details
Location: London.
Notable Alumni: Nicola Osborn (from MoreySmith) and Nicky Dobree.
Important Dates: The Professional Diploma in Interior Design course begins September 17.
Have you graduated from any of these interior design schools? We’d love to hear your experience. Share with us in the comments below!
