Interior Design Careers Shaped by Baby Boomer Market

by Sarah Clark
Career Training Directory Columnist

Baby boomers are the economic force behind many markets in today’s economy. So it’s not surprising that interior design careers are also being shaped by America’s biggest and wealthiest generation, now reaching retirement age. Here’s how the boomers are influencing interior design careers.

In a few years, the 78 million Americans that make up the baby boomer generation will begin retiring. What is one of their primary concerns? Aging in comfort. Baby boomers, even more than their predecessors, are set on retiring in their homes. To make this happen they are investing in interior design concepts known as universal design.

Universal Design

Universal design refers to a mode of design that accommodates people with limited mobility as well as the able-bodied. Kitchen countertops and drawers vary in height so children, adults, and those in wheelchairs can easily use them. Front-door entry ways and shower stalls are step-less. Master bedrooms are located on the first floor.

As boomers grow older, they will have a harder time climbing stairs and navigating a kitchen from the perch of a wheelchair, rendering universal design concepts increasingly critical to their goal of aging within the privacy and comfort of their homes.

Renovation Fever

Universal design isn’t the only big idea influencing interior design careers today. In recent years, baby boomers (and others too) have become increasingly interested in updating their homes. Just look at the numerous renovation shows on cable stations like HGTV. Or the much-hyped “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” which is among the most popular shows on network television. With more time on their hands and comfortable savings, it’s no wonder retired boomers are turning to home improvement.

Interior Design Programs

Several types of interior design programs are available to help you prepare for an interior design career. If you are specifically interested in universal design, be sure the program you choose offers courses about it. Also make sure your interior design program has a strong residential design component if you plan to work with baby boomers on their home renovation projects.

Source

The Bureau of Labor Statistics

About the Author

Sarah Clark is a freelance writer who specializes in career development.