Interior Designers

Interior designers spend their days creating physical layouts for rooms and buildings. They gather information, make decisions, and solve complex problems to ensure spaces meet the needs of their clients. This work requires a strong artistic interest, as designers must think creatively to draft and lay out technical plans while selecting appropriate furnishings and materials. They regularly use computers to draft layouts and must evaluate their designs to ensure they comply with safety and building standards.

Success in this field relies on excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Designers constantly coordinate with clients, supervisors, and external contractors. They must practice active listening and social perceptiveness to understand client desires. Key knowledge areas include design, fine arts, building and construction, and customer service. On the job, professionals benefit from work styles like attention to detail, innovation, dependability, and adaptability. They are also known by titles such as design consultants, home decorators, and commercial interior designers.

To enter this career, most individuals need a bachelor's degree along with several years of related on-the-job experience. Students preparing for this field typically choose college majors such as interior architecture, design and applied arts, environmental design, apparel and textiles, housing and human environments, or design for human health.

Licensing requirements vary, and some states do list a license for this work. Professionals can also earn voluntary certifications to show specialized expertise. Examples of these credentials include the Certified Healthcare Interior Designer, Certified Interior Decorator, Certified Kitchen and Bath Designer, Certified Lighting Manufacturers Representative, Lighting Associate, and Universal Design Certified Professional.

The median annual pay for interior designers is $67,190. Earnings vary based on experience and location, with the lowest 10% of earners making less than $41,420 and the highest 10% earning more than $114,140. There are 71,500 people employed in this field. Employment is projected to grow by 2.7% from 2025 to 2035, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. Despite this modest growth rate, about 7,700 job openings are expected to become available each year.