The qualifications you need for interior design depend on whether you want to work professionally or just develop the skills for personal projects.

1. Formal Education (for a professional career)

While it’s possible to enter the field without a degree, most established designers have at least one of these:

Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design – Covers design theory, architecture basics, CAD software, lighting, and materials.
Diploma or Certificate in Interior Design – 6–18 months, focuses on practical skills.
Related degrees – Architecture, fine arts, or industrial design.

2. Technical Skills

Design software proficiency – AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, 3ds Max, Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator.
Hand drafting & sketching (still valued in concept work).
Knowledge of building codes, safety regulations, and accessibility standards.

3. Creative & Analytical Skills

Strong sense of color, proportion, and spatial awareness.
Ability to balance aesthetics with functionality.
Understanding of lighting design, materials, and sustainability.

4. Professional Certification (optional but valuable)

NCIDQ Certification (North America) – Industry standard, requires a degree + work experience + exams.
LEED Accreditation – Focuses on sustainable building design.
Regional or national interior design associations often have their own certifications.

5. Experience

Internships with design firms.
Freelance or volunteer projects to build a portfolio.
Site visits to learn about construction, materials, and installation.

6. Soft Skills

Communication & presentation (for client pitches).
Project management & budgeting.
Collaboration with architects, contractors, and suppliers.

If you want, I can also make you a roadmap showing how someone with no design background can go from beginner to fully qualified interior designer — including timelines, skill milestones, and portfolio-building steps. Would you like me to do that?