Interior designers plan and supervise the design and arrangement of building interiors and furnishings. Some work on private residences, while others specialize in large commercial and public buildings.
An interior designer considers the purpose of the area and the client's budget and taste. Sketches are prepared for the client's approval, and changes are made as required. In some cases, plans and sketches must be prepared several times before a client is satisfied. Once the plans and the cost are approved, the designer shops for and buys furnishings and accessories; supervises the work of painters, carpet layers, and others; and makes sure furnishings are delivered and properly arranged.
Designers who specialize in nonresidential work, such as entire office buildings, or public buildings, such as libraries or hospitals, plan the complete layout of the interior, working with the architect. In some instances, they design the furnishings and arrange for their manufacture.
Most interior designers work for large design firms that provide design services to a number of clients. Others work for large department or furniture stores, furniture and textile manufacturers, and antique dealers. A few have permanent jobs with hotel and restaurant chains. A few interior designers design stage sets for motion pictures and television or work for home furnishing magazines.
Places of Employment and Working Conditions
Interior designers work throughout the country, usually in larger communities. Interior designers usually work in comfortable, pleasant studios or stores. Their work may require some travel to visit homes, buildings being constructed, and warehouses. The workweek is usually long in this field, and the hours are often irregular.
Qualifications, Education, and Training
Artistic talent, color sense, good taste, imagination, and the ability to work well with people are all necessary. High school courses should include art and business skills. Part-time or summer jobs in a home furnishings department or store are helpful.
Formal training in interior design is necessary for all of the higher paying jobs with architectural firms, well-established design firms, department and furniture stores, and other major employers. Programs are available at professional schools of interior design; at colleges and universities, which award a bachelor's degree; or in graduate programs leading to a master's degree or Ph.D.
Regardless of education, beginners almost always go through a training period with the company that hires them. They may function as shoppers, stockroom assistants, sales workers, assistant decorators, or junior designers. This trainee period lasts from one to five years.
After several years of experience as a designer, including supervisory experience, an interior designer who has had formal training may become a member of the American Society of Interior Design, which is recognized as a mark of achievement in this field.
Potential and Advancement
Even though growth is expected in this field, its popularity means competition for just about all job openings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the demand for interior designers will grow only by 4% between 2014 and 2024. As a result, job and advancement opportunities are going to be limited for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, the field is affected by ups and downs in the economy. After considerable experience, designers may advance to supervisory positions. Some open their own businesses.
Income
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage of interior designers was $48,840 in 2015.
Experienced interior designers may work on commission, salary plus commission, or straight salary. They have annual salaries ranging from $25,000 to $75,000 a year. Good designers with an established reputation can earn well over $85,000 a year.
Related Jobs
Related jobs include art directors, landscape architects, fashion designers, floral designers, industrial designers, and fine artists.
