In the ever-evolving world of interior design, having a formal education can make all the difference in turning a passion into a career. Interior decorating is a field where creativity, design principles, and knowledge of materials blend together to create beautiful, functional spaces. With the rise of online education, it’s now easier than ever to learn these skills from the comfort of your home.
In this article, we will explore some of the best online interior decorating courses available, detailing their features, costs, and benefits to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a hobbyist, someone looking to change careers, or a professional decorator seeking to enhance your skills, this guide is for you.
1. New York Institute of Art and Design (NYIAD)
Overview:
NYIAD offers one of the most comprehensive online interior decorating programs available. The Interior Design Course is designed to take you from beginner to professional level with self-paced modules. You’ll learn key principles of design, color theory, furniture placement, and even business strategies to help you start your own design business.
Key Features:
- Self-paced, online coursework
- Access to professional design mentors
- Covers residential and commercial design
- Portfolio development for future clients
- Flexible, with up to 18 months to complete the course
Cost:
The course typically costs around $1,399, but NYIAD frequently offers discounts or payment plans to make it more affordable. You can also try the first unit for free.
Why It Stands Out:
NYIAD is well-known for its robust support system. Students have access to one-on-one feedback from professional interior designers and can reach out for advice even after graduation.
2. Udemy – Masterclass: Interior Design and Decoration
Overview:
Udemy is a popular platform for various online courses, and their Interior Design and Decoration Masterclass offers a fantastic introduction for beginners. This course covers design fundamentals, color psychology, spatial arrangements, and lighting techniques. Udemy courses are flexible and can be accessed at any time.
Key Features:
- Beginner-friendly content
- Lifetime access to course materials
- 9 hours of on-demand video
- Certificate upon completion
Cost:
This course is highly affordable, often priced around $100, but Udemy frequently offers sales, bringing the price down to $20 or less.
Why It Stands Out:
This course is perfect for individuals seeking a low-cost option to dip their toes into the world of interior decorating. It provides a comprehensive introduction to design principles, making it ideal for hobbyists or those testing the waters before committing to a full program.
3. The Interior Design Institute (IDI)
Overview:
The Interior Design Institute offers a more in-depth program that focuses on the technical aspects of interior decorating. The 12-module course covers everything from color theory to drawing floor plans and furniture layout. Students receive personal feedback from tutors and have access to additional advanced modules.
Key Features:
- 12 comprehensive modules
- Accredited by the International Accreditation and Recognition Council (IARC)
- Access to personal tutors for one-on-one feedback
- Advanced modules in lighting, styling, and business available
Cost:
The program costs around $999, with various payment plan options available to make it more accessible.
Why It Stands Out:
This course is ideal for students looking to become professionals. It provides the technical knowledge and creative insight needed to start a career as an interior designer or decorator. The accreditation and extensive course content also make it stand out from shorter or more basic programs.
4. The New School – Parsons School of Design
Overview:
Parsons, part of The New School, is a prestigious name in the design world. They offer a Certificate in Interior Design and Architecture Studies that’s available online. This program covers a wide range of topics including interior environments, space planning, and sustainable design. It’s geared more towards those with some background in design, but beginners are also welcome.
Key Features:
- Professional-level certificate
- Extensive modules covering architecture and design
- Taught by experienced professionals in the industry
- Focus on contemporary and sustainable design
Cost:
Parsons’ certificate programs are on the higher end, costing around $5,000 for the full certificate. However, you can take individual courses for about $500 each if you’re not ready to commit to the entire program.
Why It Stands Out:
For those serious about a long-term career in interior design, Parsons offers an unmatched education. The prestige of this school and the depth of its curriculum make it a fantastic choice for those wanting to establish credibility in the design world.
5. Skillshare – Interior Design Basics: Simple Steps to Your Perfect Space
Overview:
Skillshare offers a shorter, more concise approach to interior decorating with its Interior Design Basics course. This course teaches students how to create a cohesive and balanced room, select a color scheme, and arrange furniture. With Skillshare, you get access to a variety of design-related courses for one monthly fee.
Key Features:
- Short, easily digestible lessons
- Focus on practical design tips and tools
- Access to community discussions for peer feedback
- Affordable with a monthly subscription
Cost:
Skillshare operates on a subscription basis, and you can access thousands of courses, including the interior decorating one, for about $19 per month. There is also a free trial option available.
Why It Stands Out:
Skillshare’s short lessons make it a great option for those looking for quick, practical tips. If you want to brush up on design skills without committing to a long program, this is a flexible and affordable way to learn.
6. Interior Design for Beginners by Shaw Academy
Overview:
Shaw Academy’s Interior Design for Beginners is another highly affordable and accessible option. The course covers the fundamentals of space planning, materials, color, and lighting. Shaw Academy offers live lessons as well as recorded sessions, making it interactive and flexible.
Key Features:
- 8-week course with live and recorded lessons
- Interactive quizzes and projects
- Certificate of completion
- 24/7 student support
Cost:
Shaw Academy frequently offers free access to the first four weeks of the course, after which students pay a subscription fee of around $50 per month.
Why It Stands Out:
This course is a solid blend of affordability and depth. It’s great for beginners who want to experience a structured learning environment with interactive lessons and personalized feedback.
7. LinkedIn Learning – Interior Design Foundations
Overview:
LinkedIn Learning offers the Interior Design Foundations course for professionals or those seeking a solid base in interior design principles. This course covers topics such as the psychology of space, designing for small spaces, and working with light.
Key Features:
- Taught by professional interior designers
- Focus on both residential and commercial spaces
- Offers continuing education credits
- Certificate upon completion
Cost:
LinkedIn Learning operates on a subscription model, which costs around $29.99 per month, giving you access to thousands of other courses as well.
Why It Stands Out:
This course provides a solid foundation for those interested in learning interior decorating basics. Additionally, LinkedIn Learning offers continuing education credits, which can be helpful for professionals in the industry.
Conclusion
The world of online interior decorating courses offers something for everyone, whether you’re a novice looking for a hobby or a professional seeking to enhance your skills. Courses vary in price, depth, and focus, but the flexibility of online learning allows you to pursue your passion at your own pace.
For those looking for a comprehensive and recognized certification, institutions like the New York Institute of Art and Design and the Interior Design Institute are excellent choices. If you’re more focused on affordability and flexibility, platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, and LinkedIn Learning provide practical knowledge at a lower cost.
No matter which course you choose, the key is finding the one that fits your needs, goals, and budget. Interior decorating is a skill that can transform spaces and bring joy to people’s lives, and these online courses can help you master that craft from the comfort of your home.