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Starting an Interior Design Career in 2026: Courses & Inspo
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items Dreaming of becoming an interior designer in 2026? This list is here for you. While I never followed that path myself, there was a two-year period from 2021 - 2023 where I HEAVILY considered going back to school to do it. I researched schools, read s...
Sections
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Top Interior Design Youtube Channels for Beginners
University-Backed Online Interior Design Programs
Design Career Paths to Explore (with Salaries)
A Visual Exploration of Interior Design Styles
Top Interior Design Youtube Channels for Beginners
Here are creators who make the world of styling feel even more fun. Each channel has its own vibe, but all of them break things down in a way that feels accessible.
If I had to pick a favorite to watch on this list, it’s Caroline, hands down. Her sarcastic funny commentary and snarky personality make her videos so entertaining, but she lays down solid design advice and inspiration. I’ve been watching her channel...
Caroline Winkler
Nick’s gift as a presenter is being able to talk to you like you’re already best friends and he’s about to tell you everybody’s secrets. I love the way he gently calls out bad design.
Nick Lewis
You may have already heard of Lauren, as she’s been on HGTV, but she’s the queen of cottage-style, and really, is there anything more cozy than a cottage?
Lauren Liess
I feel like I have learned more from Viv than anyone else on this list. Her channel is dedicated to deep dives on specific design elements, and she always covers the ‘why’ of why you should (or shouldn’t) set up something a certain way.
Vivien Albrecht
If you’re a magpie like me, you know the singular thrill that comes with finding that overlooked but perfectly beautiful antique piece. Megan’s channel lets you live that joy alongside her, while imparting plenty of design knowledge and inspiration a...
Megan the Wild
University-Backed Online Interior Design Programs
These programs all come from real colleges and established design schools. Only accredited institutions can give you the kind of depth, clarity, and credibility that most “online courses” can’t match.
Great curriculum and they help you build a strong portfolio.
AND Academy
Another prestigious option on the list. But they’re prestigious for a reason, and they offer a program which is entirely online.
New York School of Interior Design
The most prestigious option on the list, but if you want a program that will likely set you up for life, this is the one to look into.
Savannah College of Art & Design
One of the more accessible options on the list, still it comes highly recommended by the people who’ve taken it.
Academy of Art University
If you’re interested in a more generalized arts degree program, or if you’ve already got the experience and just need the degree.
Yorkville University
Design Career Paths to Explore (with Salaries)
There’s a whole constellation of creative careers that sit in the same orbit as interior design. This roundup is a peek at the kinds of jobs designers often grow into—along with realistic salaries.
Art Directors decide on visual imagery for magazines, product packaging, or movie productions. Annual Salary: $110,000
Art Directors
Industrial designers collaborate with engineers to create products that are intuitive to use as well as aesthetically pleasing. Annual Salary: $79,000
Industrial Designer
Set designers help create movie sets and other spaces for entertainment. Annual Salary: $66,000
Set Designer
Graphic designers create visual concepts using computers. Annual Salary: $61,000
Graphic Designer
Floral designers cut and arrange flowers and other foliage. Annual Salary: $46,000 (no degree needed)
Floral Designer
A Visual Exploration of Interior Design Styles
Sometimes the easiest way to understand an interior design style is simply to see it in action.
Clean lines, warm wood, and a touch of nostalgia. Modern Mid-Century blends simplicity with soul. It's cozy minimalism with a vintage heartbeat.
Modern Mid-Century
Soft neutrals, sunlight on old books, tidy desks, and quiet charm. This style feels like a peaceful study break in a beautiful library.
Light Academia
Lush greenery meets concrete. This style celebrates modern hideaways. It's stark and sculptural, softened by plants and natural light.
Tropical Brutalism
Art Deco is all about confidence: b old geometry, gleaming metal, and dramatic glamour, they didn't call it the ‘Gilded Age’ for no reason.
Art Deco
Moody colors, antiques, and books. This style celebrates cozy intellectualism with spaces that feel like secret study rooms.
Dark Academia