If you’ve always been fascinated by beautiful spaces, colour combinations, and décor but have no formal training, stepping into the world of interior design can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t need prior experience to start learning. Many interior design courses are created specifically for beginners, helping you build skills from the ground up and giving you the confidence to design stunning, functional spaces.

Whether you’re looking to start a new career, enhance your creative abilities, or simply design your own home, here’s a guide to the best types of interior design courses for complete beginners.

1. Diploma in Interior Design

A diploma course is one of the most comprehensive options for beginners. It covers everything from the fundamentals of design to advanced techniques, without requiring any previous knowledge.

What you’ll learn:

  • Principles of design (balance, harmony, proportion)

  • Colour theory and application

  • Space planning and furniture arrangement

  • Lighting design

  • Materials and finishes

  • Introduction to CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software

  • Basics of working with clients and contractors

Why it’s great for beginners:
Diploma programmes start with the basics and gradually build towards complex concepts. They often include hands-on projects, site visits, and even internships, so you gain real-world exposure while still learning.

2. Certificate Courses in Interior Design Basics

If you’re not ready to commit to a full diploma, short-term certificate courses offer an excellent starting point. These can range from a few weeks to a few months in length.

What you’ll learn:

  • Core design principles

  • Basic drawing and sketching skills

  • Mood boards and concept presentations

  • Introduction to materials and textures

Why it’s great for beginners:
Certificate courses are flexible, affordable, and perfect for testing your interest before investing in a longer programme. They also give you practical skills you can apply immediately to small projects.

3. Online Interior Design Courses

For those with busy schedules or limited access to in-person classes, online courses offer a convenient way to learn at your own pace.

What you’ll learn:

  • Recorded lectures on design fundamentals

  • Interactive assignments and quizzes

  • Digital design tools and software basics

  • Optional live Q&A sessions with instructors

Why it’s great for beginners:
You can start from scratch, study anywhere, and often revisit the lessons anytime. Many platforms also provide downloadable resources, templates, and certification upon completion.

4. Workshops and Weekend Classes

If you prefer a more hands-on, interactive learning style, workshops are a great choice. They focus on practical aspects of design in a short, intensive format.

What you’ll learn:

  • DIY home décor techniques

  • Styling tips for different spaces

  • Furniture arrangement for small rooms

  • Basic lighting and colour coordination

Why it’s great for beginners:
Workshops are short, affordable, and fun. They’re ideal for hobbyists or anyone curious about interior design without committing to a long-term course.

5. Interior Styling Courses

Interior styling is a niche within interior design that focuses on the final visual appearance of a space—think arranging furniture, placing décor items, and selecting colour schemes.

What you’ll learn:

  • Styling for residential and commercial spaces

  • Creating mood boards and design themes

  • Photography and presentation of styled spaces

Why it’s great for beginners:
Styling courses are highly creative and don’t require deep technical knowledge. They’re a great entry point if you want to move into editorial styling, staging homes for sale, or simply improving your own interiors.

6. Interior Design Software Training

Technology plays a huge role in modern interior design. Learning software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or 3ds Max can give you a professional edge from day one.

What you’ll learn:

  • Creating 2D layouts and 3D visualisations

  • Rendering realistic room designs

  • Producing professional floor plans

Why it’s great for beginners:
Even without prior design knowledge, mastering these tools can make you job-ready faster. Many beginners pair software training with other design courses for a well-rounded skill set.

7. Interior Design Fundamentals for Career Switchers

Some institutes offer special beginner programmes aimed at professionals from unrelated fields who want to transition into interior design.

What you’ll learn:

  • Intensive design principles

  • Market insights and career guidance

  • Client communication skills

  • Portfolio development

Why it’s great for beginners:
These courses are structured to give you a crash course in both creative and business skills, helping you move into the industry quickly.

How to Choose the Right Course as a Beginner

With so many options available, it’s important to choose a course that matches your goals, schedule, and budget. Consider the following:

  1. Your purpose: Are you learning as a hobby or aiming for a career change?

  2. Learning style: Do you prefer in-person guidance or the flexibility of online classes?

  3. Duration: Do you want a quick introduction or an in-depth programme?

  4. Practical exposure: Does the course offer projects, internships, or site visits?

Final Thoughts

You don’t need prior experience to begin your journey in interior design. The right beginner-friendly course will guide you from the very basics to more advanced skills, giving you the confidence to take on projects—whether for yourself or for paying clients.

 

At PaperLoft Institute, we specialise in diploma and certificate courses designed for complete beginners. Our hands-on training, real-world exposure, and personalised mentorship ensure you graduate with both creative flair and practical skills. Whether you dream of designing homes, commercial spaces, or boutique interiors, your first step starts here.