For many designers, the idea of doing something other than interior design is unthinkable. It is not just a job. It is their passion. It speaks to how they perceive and relate to the world around them.

I get that. I also know there are designers who are struggling to keep their firms afloat because there just isn't enough business. At some point, some of them may need to consider applying their skills in other industries if they wish to continue working.

Interior design has always been subject to the ups and downs of the economy at large. When times are bad, most clients can economize or defer projects to a later date. Experienced designers are accustomed to adjusting to these fluctuations in demand, unwelcome though they may be. Through perseverance and ingenuity, some have shown remarkable resilience.

Yet, as I look at what is happening in the industry today, I am perceiving shifts that have less to do with the economy and more to do with changes in client behavior and the delivery of services.

Overall, the industry has rebounded strongly from the last recession and the bursting of the housing bubble. Employment is way up, and leading firms have plenty of projects in the pipeline.

Certain sectors, however, are not doing so well. Their long-time clients have less need of their services, and today's prospects are less interested in paying for a full menu of design services. They want only a bit of advice on their choice of style or help with selecting products. More are choosing to use less costly online services for design guidance, do their own purchasing and hire a contractor to manage the rest.

For smaller firms that have thrived on handling projects from concept to installation, the drop in revenues is becoming unsustainable. Perhaps for these designers, the time has come to consider other options.

Ironically, the DIY trend that is undermining the use of design services has created a demand for experienced designers to work in showrooms, design centers and retail stores as manufacturers seek to lure customers by offering "free" design help or advice. Similarly, because of their extensive knowledge of products and their application, designers also are being sought to fill positions in sales and as manufacturers' reps.

After years of managing projects, clients and a business, some designers welcome the switch to a job with regular hours and a steady paycheck.

Designers who relish the use of their creative powers may want to consider a lateral move into graphic, fashion or product design, photography or illustration. As our forms of communication become increasingly more visual, companies of all sorts — large and small have a greater need to provide compelling images.

An area still in its infancy but with great potential is designing environments for virtual reality platforms. The technology is already being employed in architecture and real estate. With wider adoption of these devices by consumers, companies will be competing to lure them with ever-more-sophisticated imaginary spaces.

Those designers who have honed their management and marketing skills over the years can apply them in a variety of business contexts, both within and outside the building and real estate industries.

Small business owners of various kinds can profit from your insights and experience. Companies are always on the lookout for experienced managers with good people and resource management skills, as well as individuals with proven abilities in customer development, relations and service.

Depending on your talents and interests, other areas to explore include education, media (e.g., writing for designers and/or about interior design), real estate (residential and commercial) and set design.

Having known designers who successfully transitioned into other fields, I am happy to report there is life after interior design. Starting over is never easy. But if your business is going nowhere, a new direction or career transition can be exciting and rewarding.