What do you do if your career growth in Commercial Interior Design depends on innovation?

1 Find inspiration

One of the first steps to innovate is to find inspiration from different sources, such as other designers, art, nature, culture, or technology. You can use online platforms, magazines, books, or podcasts to discover new ideas and trends, or visit local or international exhibitions, museums, or landmarks to observe different styles and approaches. You can also network with other professionals in your field or related industries, and exchange feedback, insights, or recommendations. Inspiration can spark your imagination and help you generate original and diverse concepts for your projects.

2 Experiment and prototype

Another way to innovate is to experiment with different materials, colors, textures, shapes, or layouts, and test your ideas in various scenarios. You can use sketches, models, mock-ups, or digital tools to create prototypes of your designs, and evaluate their feasibility, functionality, and aesthetics. You can also involve your clients, colleagues, or end-users in the prototyping process, and get their input, suggestions, or preferences. Experimenting and prototyping can help you refine your designs, identify potential problems or opportunities, and find optimal solutions.

3 Learn and update

To keep up with the fast-paced and competitive market of commercial interior design, you need to constantly learn and update your skills and knowledge. You can enroll in online courses, workshops, webinars, or certifications that cover topics such as design theory, software, sustainability, accessibility, or psychology. You can also read blogs, newsletters, reports, or case studies that showcase best practices, innovations, or challenges in your industry. Learning and updating can help you stay relevant, informed, and adaptable to the changing needs and demands of your clients and projects.

4 Collaborate and co-create

Innovation is not a solo endeavor, but a collaborative and co-creative process that involves multiple perspectives and inputs. You can collaborate with other designers, architects, engineers, contractors, or suppliers, and leverage their expertise, experience, or resources. You can also co-create with your clients, stakeholders, or end-users, and involve them in the design process, from ideation to implementation. You can use methods such as brainstorming, focus groups, surveys, or workshops to gather their opinions, needs, or expectations. Collaborating and co-creating can help you build trust, rapport, and satisfaction with your partners and customers.

5 Challenge yourself

Finally, to innovate in your career, you need to challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone. You can take on projects that are different from your usual niche, style, or scope, and explore new markets, sectors, or audiences. You can also set yourself goals, deadlines, or constraints that push you to think creatively and strategically. You can also seek feedback, criticism, or mentorship from others, and learn from your mistakes, failures, or successes. Challenging yourself can help you grow, improve, and excel as a commercial interior designer.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?