Begin Your Interior Design Training at Your Local News Stand

If you've entered a bookstore or browsed the magazines at a news stand lately, you've probably noticed the increasing number of interior design magazines. For those who view design as a hobby or potential career, the "shelter press," as industry insiders call it, can be a good source of information.
Fifteen or twenty years ago, you'd have a hard time finding more than a handful of national magazines related to interior design. There was Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and few other home design magazines. Today many bookstores devote an entire wall fitted with racks to interior design publications.

Not a Substitute for Interior Design Training

While reading glossy magazines can't replace formal interior design training, you can find examples of classic and emerging design trends and techniques in action that are useful. And since interior design has a lot to do with fashion, the importance of staying abreast of home design trends can't be overstated.

Regional Interior Design Magazines

As you peruse the shelter press, make sure you don't overlook regional design magazines. Dwell, Wallpaper, and Architectural Digest have great articles and photo spreads, but regional magazines have something else to offer--they provide inside information on the design business in your area as well as information on local designers of note, arbiters of style, and consumers of good design. As an interior-designer-in-training, you'll want to become familiar with your interior design community.
While you might have a preference for minimalist design and, as such, be drawn to interior design magazines with such a focus, be sure to embrace styles beyond those you favor most. Interior designers are a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to design styles. The most successful are those who can work in a variety of design motifs, from mid-century modern to new eclecticism. Learn to find inspiration in lots of different styles.
You'll also want to pay special attention to interior design magazines focused on architecture and construction. Many interior designers also work as architects, or at the very least, they may work with architects in restoring crumbling molding or incorporating architectural elements such as a sky light or media room.

Interior Design Training Inspiration

Reading design magazines can't substitute for real interior design training. It can, however, introduce you to new concepts, help you learn the language of design, and inspire you in your design career.

Sarah Clark is a freelance writer specializing in career development.