self employed vs. design firm

Work Hours – If you are self-employed or work for a small firm, you are more likely to work flexible hours as you adjust your schedule around your clients' needs and deadlines. If you start your interior design career in a large design firm, you will probably have more predictable hours.

Environment – Large design firms may have the resources for a more comfortable work environment and state-of-the-art equipment. They also have established connections with related firms and specialists. This can be an important consideration for anyone starting an interior design career.

Clients – If you are self-employed, you may have more say in which jobs you take; however, you are responsible for finding your own clients and connections.

Self-employed/ work for small consulting firms tend to have erratic and variable work weeks, quite often meeting with clients during evening or weekends when necessary. Their workloads are sporadic and depend on how busy they happen to be at a given time, and they tend to work in relatively small and somewhat congested environments.

Employed designers work more normal hours in a relatively comfortable setting.