Must-Have Resources for Interior Designers: From Books to Online Courses

Interior design is a dynamic field that combines creativity with technical knowledge. To stay ahead of trends, improve skills, and enhance your expertise, it’s crucial to access quality resources that support both your practical and theoretical understanding of design. From books to online courses, here’s a curated list of must-have resources for interior designers looking to elevate their craft.
1. Essential Books for Interior Designers
Books are a great way to deepen your knowledge, spark creativity, and stay up-to-date with industry trends. Here are some must-reads for any interior designer:
• “The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book” by Chris Grimley and Mimi Love: This book is a comprehensive guide that covers everything from basic design principles to technical specifications. It’s a handy reference for all stages of the design process, especially for those working in residential and commercial design.
• “Design Sponge at Home” by Grace Bonney: A beautiful book filled with inspirational home design ideas. It’s perfect for both beginners and established designers looking for creative inspiration and new techniques for styling interiors.
• “The Finer Things: Timeless Furniture, Textiles, and Details” by Christiane Lemieux: This book explores the finer details of luxury design, including materials, finishes, and furniture choices. It’s a great resource for learning how to elevate the quality and craftsmanship of your designs.
• “Interior Design Illustrated” by Francis D.K. Ching: A visual guide to the principles of interior design. This book focuses on clear, easy-to-understand diagrams and illustrations that demonstrate key design concepts and techniques.
2. Online Courses and Platforms
In addition to books, taking online courses can help you gain practical knowledge, enhance your skills, and stay current with industry standards. Here are some excellent online platforms for interior design courses:
• Coursera: Coursera offers a range of interior design courses, from beginner to advanced levels, taught by instructors from top universities. Courses cover topics such as design principles, CAD software, space planning, and more.
• Skillshare: Skillshare is known for its hands-on, project-based learning. Whether you’re looking to refine your technical drawing skills or learn about the business side of interior design, there’s a course for it. Plus, many courses are taught by industry professionals.
• LinkedIn Learning: LinkedIn Learning offers a wide array of courses related to interior design. You can find topics on software tools (like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit), project management, and business practices. The platform also allows you to learn at your own pace.
• Udemy: If you’re looking for affordable and comprehensive courses, Udemy has a vast library of interior design courses. Whether you want to focus on specific design software or enhance your understanding of color theory, you can find courses that suit your learning style.
3. Design Blogs and Websites
Staying informed about industry trends is essential for interior designers. There are many design blogs and websites that offer valuable insights, inspiration, and resources:
• Design*Sponge: This blog covers a variety of design topics, from DIY projects to professional design advice. It’s a great resource for design inspiration, especially for home interiors.
• Dezeen: A leading online architecture and design magazine, Dezeen features the latest in interior design trends, product launches, and industry news. It’s an excellent source for staying up-to-date with cutting-edge design ideas.
• The Interior Design Society (IDS): IDS offers articles, events, and a community for interior designers to learn, network, and grow. They provide resources on business development, marketing, and design trends.
4. Design Software Tutorials
Learning how to use design software is crucial for modern interior designers. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help you master tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit.
• YouTube: There are countless free tutorials on YouTube covering various aspects of design software. Channels like The SketchUp Essentials and CAD in Black provide clear, step-by-step guides on using software tools effectively.
• Lynda.com (LinkedIn Learning): Lynda offers in-depth tutorials on major design software tools, including AutoCAD, Photoshop, and SketchUp. These courses are taught by experts and provide a structured learning experience.
5. Design Magazines
Reading design magazines is another great way to stay informed about trends, new products, and design techniques. Some top design magazines include:
• Architectural Digest
• Elle Decor
• Interior Design Magazine
• House Beautiful
These magazines often feature stunning photography, articles on the latest interior design trends, and profiles of leading designers, making them a valuable resource for inspiration and knowledge.
Conclusion
To thrive as an interior designer, it’s essential to invest in ongoing education and access a wide range of resources. Books, online courses, design blogs, and software tutorials provide valuable insights that can help you refine your skills, expand your creativity, and stay current with industry trends. By continually learning and growing, you’ll be better equipped to tackle new design challenges and create inspiring spaces.