Interior Design

Job Summary:
Interior designers plan and design spaces and furnish interiors. They design and furnish the interior of private homes, public buildings, and commercial buildings such as offices or hotels. They may design the inside of boats, planes, or other enclosed spaces. They also plan additions or remodels to homes or other buildings. Some interior designers specialize in furnishing private homes.

Interior designers first with clients to learn what they want. They consider the client's tastes, budget, and safety needs. They also consider how the space will be used. When designing for a business, they consider the purpose of the space, such as selling merchandise or meeting clients. Designers also consider the physical details of the space and whether it should be remodeled. They measure the space so they know the exact dimensions. In addition, they consider local building codes and standards for access to public buildings.

Interior designers draw first sketches for the client. These include plans for interior remodeling, furnishings, lights, and finishing touches such as color. They often use Computer Aided Design (CAD). When the client accepts the design, interior designers create a detailed plan. Included in the plan is an estimate for costs and materials that will be needed. The plan may also include designs for furnishings. Interior designers may oversee the subcontractors who do the work. They may hire people who install carpet or light fixtures, or paint and hang wallpaper. Designers may also select and purchase furnishings, such as furniture or artwork. Interior designers who work for large firms may also supervise assistants throughout the job.

Qualification:
To work as an interior designer, you must complete a bachelor's degree in interior design, be comfortable with people, have good communication skills, have an eye for color and detail, have a sense of balance and proportion, and be creative.

Salary Range:
Nationally, the median wage for interior designers is $3,300 per month ($19.03 per hour). Half of all interior designers earn between $2,470 and $4,450 per month ($14.23 and $25.66 per hour).

Wages vary by industry. Interior designers who work for engineering and architectural firms tend to earn higher wages than those who work for home furnishing stores or other business services. Wages vary from one state to another.

Prospects:
Beginning designers often need one to three years of experience before they advance to higher-level positions. Experienced designers in large firms may advance to chief designer or other supervisory positions. Some designers become teachers in design schools. Some experienced designers open their own firms.