Learn the skills and concepts you will need to become a Kitchen and Bath Designer. The page below lists schools and colleges that offer excellent programs and degrees in Kitchen and Bath Design. Study basic design, drawing, plumbing and lighting designs that will train you to be a success in the Kitchen and Bath Design Industry.

by Erika Edwards Decaster
erika.decaster@interiordecoratingschools.net
Interior Decorating Schools Columnist

A recent survey released by the global advertising agency Leo Burnett, shows that the majority of American women are "house proud." These women see their homes as a source of pride and joy. And certainly a well-designed home, inside and out, is something to be proud of.

Design Boom

Now, more than ever before, average Americans have the opportunity to enjoy a stylish home that reflects their personal tastes, without breaking the bank. America is experiencing a virtual design boom. For example, the popularity of such television shows as Trading Spaces, Design on a Dime, and Extreme Makeover, Home Edition, proves that interior design and decorating are quickly becoming a national obsession.

Ready-made Design

Also, the increasing availability of moderately priced furniture and home accents is contributing to the design explosion in America. Such stores as Crate & Barrel, Pier 1, Pottery Barn, and Ikea are catering to this new generation of would-be designers. Just a few decades ago, it was difficult to find moderately-priced, yet stylish pieces for the home. For this reason, most Americans ended up with a mish-mash of styles or more often, no prevailing style at all.

Design consultation

In the past, an interior designer would come into a space, consult with the client regarding what they wanted, and basically take it from there. However, many designers nowadays function on more of a consultant basis. Many clients prefer to be more involved in the design process, or even choose to do the majority of the labor themselves.

A more stylish state

In conclusion, America is basically becoming more stylish. We care more about how our homes look, how they feel, and how they reflect our personalities and tastes. This recent explosion of interest in interior design is more than a passing trend, it's here to stay.

Sources
http://toronto.fashion-monitor.com

About the Author
Erika Edwards Decaster is a self-proclaimed interior design devotee. She has most recently worked as an internship coordinator for Brigham Young University. Her previous experience includes publishing, curriculum development, museum administration and as a teacher of English as a second language. She has also worked as a full-time humanitarian aid volunteer in Portugal and as an employment specialist in the Dominican Republic.

Posted on May 31, 2005 at 05:14 PM