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Interior Designer Job Description: Top Duties and Requirements

Interior Designers, or Interior Decorators, work with clients to help achieve a functional and aesthetically-pleasing interior space. Their duties include sourcing furniture and materials, conducting presentations, and sketching concepts using design software.

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Interior Designer duties and responsibilities

Bringing a design project to completion requires performing a number of day-to-day tasks, such as:

  • Conducting meetings with clients to discuss their needs and style preferences
  • Coordinating with contractors and tradespeople
  • Creating design plans with preferences and safety requirements in place
  • Overseeing costs and budget, and putting together project estimates
  • Choosing design features such as furnishings, materials, and artwork
  • Advertising services and bidding on new projects
  • Preparing concept presentations
  • Directing others and offering solutions where necessary
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What does an Interior Designer do?

Interior Designers typically work as independent contractors or as part of a large firm overseeing interior design projects, from concept development to project completion. Designers stay up-to-date on current industry trends and they use design principles to provide solutions for even the most challenging indoor spaces.

The types of projects they undertake may include hotel lobbies and houses under renovation. Interior Designers meet with clients to discuss their needs and vision, provide recommendations, and ensure that projects stay within the allotted budget. They may work in conjunction with realtors, property managers, engineers, architects, and homeowners. Additionally, Interior Designers make on-site observations, organize meetings, and are responsible for selecting decor, furniture, and lighting.

Interior Designer skills and qualifications

Interior Designers use a variety of skills to meet the design needs of their clients. Interior Designers must be detail-oriented and well-organized, while ensuring that they are proactive and solutions-driven when it comes to dealing with various projects. General skills and qualifications of Interior Designers may include: 

  • Excellent time management skills
  • Proficiency in design software
  • Can work well both in a team environment and as an individual contributor
  • Creative and good sketching abilities

Interior Designer experience requirements

After formal education, prospective Interior Designers must undergo supervised work experience, otherwise known as an internship. These internships last between 2-3 years and allow candidates to recognize which area of the field they would like to specialize in, such as residential, commercial, or aviation. The internship must be supervised by a licensed Interior Designer or Architect.

Interior Designer education and training requirements

A diploma or bachelor’s degree in interior design is typically required to work in the field. To work as an Interior Designer in Canada, candidates must ensure they meet the current standards put out by the Interior Designers of Canada (IDC). Some jobs may require the completion of the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination. To maintain good standing within their provincial association, Interior Designers must continue professional development through the Interior Design Continuing Education Council (IDCEC). Those who wish to use the designation Interior Design Consultant must attain certification from appropriate provincial institutions or associations.

Interior Designer Salary Expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an Interior Designer is $54,253 per year. However, salary may be dependent on experience, location, industry and the employer.

Job description samples for similar positions

If an Interior Designer role is not what you’re looking for, some other job titles to review include:

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Interior Designer job description FAQs

What does an Interior Designer do on a daily basis?

Interior Designers spend a certain amount of time conceptualizing and sketching their client’s design goals. Once the idea is approved, the Interior Designer determines the cost and forms a budget, and proceeds to source products and materials. Interior Designers often find themselves negotiating between clients, contractors, and architects to achieve the desired look. In terms of design, the person in this role makes decisions that contribute to the functionality, safety, and beauty of an interior space.

What is the difference between an Interior Designer and an Interior Decorator?

These job titles are used interchangeably and have similar meaning as both roles aim to enhance the attractiveness and functionality of a space. Interior Decorators and Interior Designers work within the confines of the space provided, and makes suggestions about colour selection, where furniture should go, and how to make the room appear more fashionable. They have the ability to change the space altogether by working closely with engineers and architects, and researching the psychology behind how people interact with the room they’re in.

Job Description Examples

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