Interior

What Does

An interior designer works with their clients to design or remodel indoor spaces to make them both functional and visually appealing.

Often confused with interior decorators, designers emphasize effective use of space. They may specialize in certain styles or types of interior design, such as residential or commercial, or even work on a theater or film project and must be able to work within the limits o space and budget.

What Skills

Important Skills

• Being Artistic, Having A Sense of Style
• Have knowledge of architecture
• Understand computer based design tools
• Have good listening skills
• Relationships with builders and tradespeople

how to learn

Interior designers need at least two years of school- many art and design schools offer certificate or degree programs in interior design, as do some universities and colleges.

Additional certifications and apprenticeships may be required to secure a position in this field.

meet interior designer

"So much of what I do is about how people live, and I am always looking for balance. I love it when rooms come alive with a personality, and I like things to be real and honest and reflect the people who live there. We designers definitely have a point of view, but it depends where a home is and who the people are and what they like. It’s a process. You ask lots of questions and you listen. It’s the listening and the seeing and the feeling—it’s all about the senses."

-Victoria Hagan, Elle Decor Magazine

Where DO

Anywhere!

Many interior designers choose to work
with large interior design firms when they are
just establishing themselves. As they gain experience, some will become independent and start their own business.

Interior designers may also work with architecture firms, manufacturers, and
real estate companies - these positions
are in available in the US and abroad.

How Much

Annual Income (in thousands)

Professional Interior design groups

• American Society of Interior Designers
• Interior Design Society
• Association of Interior Design Professionals
• International Interior Design Association
• Council For Interior Design Accreditation