Top 12 Interior Designer Interview Questions and Answers

Interior designers play a crucial role in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional interior spaces. Typically, they possess a natural flair for artistic creativity and hold a diploma in interior design. When hiring for this position, it is advisable to prioritize candidates with relevant experience, unless you are specifically seeking to fill an entry-level position.

During the interview process, it is recommended to request candidates to bring a portfolio showcasing samples of their previous work. Inquire about their methodologies employed in previous projects and the challenges they faced. Additionally, you can assign them a task that demonstrates their expertise in specific areas, such as materials selection. This exercise can be instrumental in assessing their suitability for the role you are offering.

The skillset of exceptional interior designers encompasses a broad range of abilities. This includes project management skills, effective communication, collaboration, and a willingness to stay updated with industry trends. To evaluate these skills, consider asking behavioral or situational questions that shed light on their past experiences and problem-solving capabilities.

Role-specific questions and answers

1. What piece in your portfolio are you most proud of?

When responding to this question, you can mention a specific project from your portfolio that highlights your skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Describe the project, its challenges, and how you overcame them to achieve successful results.

2. Which of your work samples involved more technical expertise?

Select a project from your portfolio that required advanced technical knowledge and skills. Explain the technical complexities involved, such as architectural considerations, structural elements, lighting design, or integration of complex systems.

3. What interior design course was the most difficult for you and why?

Share your experience with a challenging interior design course and explain why it was difficult for you. Discuss the specific concepts or skills you found most demanding and how you overcame the challenges.

4. What is your experience with AutoCAD/3D Max/InDesign, etc.?

Provide an overview of your experience and proficiency with these software tools. Mention the projects where you utilized them and describe the tasks you accomplished using each software.

5. How would you prioritize tasks for a renovation project?

Explain your approach to task prioritization in a renovation project. Discuss factors such as client preferences, project timelines, budget constraints, and critical path analysis. Emphasize the importance of balancing priorities and managing resources effectively.

6. What do you need to consider when designing?

When designing, you need to consider various factors, including client requirements, functionality, aesthetics, space planning, safety regulations, building codes, budget limitations, and sustainability aspects. Discuss how you address these considerations in your design process.

7. What do you know about sustainable design?

Highlight your knowledge and understanding of sustainable design principles and practices. Discuss concepts such as energy efficiency, use of environmentally friendly materials, waste reduction, indoor air quality, and integration of renewable energy sources.

8. What are a couple of questions you'd ask to discover your client's requirements?

Demonstrate your ability to gather client requirements effectively by providing example questions, such as:

- What is the purpose of the space you want to design?

- What are your preferred colors, styles, and design inspirations?

- Do you have any specific functional requirements or spatial constraints?

- What is your budget and timeline for the project?

- Are there any sustainability or accessibility considerations?

9. Is there any interior design style you favor/dislike?

Express your openness to various design styles and explain that your preference is to create customized designs based on the client's needs and preferences. However, you can mention any specific styles you enjoy working with or have expertise in.

10. How do you keep up with industry changes?

Describe your proactive approach to staying updated with industry changes. Mention how you regularly engage in professional development activities, attend design conferences or workshops, follow industry publications and blogs, and participate in relevant online communities.

11. Do you prefer functionality or appeal?

Explain that your design philosophy aims for a balance between functionality and appeal. Emphasize that a well-designed space should meet the functional requirements while also creating an aesthetically pleasing environment that resonates with the client's preferences and enhances their experience.

12. Were you artistic as a child?

If you were artistic as a child, you can briefly mention your early interest in art, creativity, and design. However, remember to link it to how your childhood passion has influenced your career choice and development as an interior designer.

Remember, these answers are general and can be tailored to your personal experiences and preferences in an actual interview or conversation.