Interior Design Jobs

Are you always experimenting with the look and feel of your living space? Do you think about how to improve every home or building you spent time in? If you want to explore interior design as a career, here are the basics.

What do Interior Designers Do?

Interior designers use all aspects of a space – layout, furnishings, and lighting, to name a few -- to serve their client’s residential or commercial needs. A good eye for color, texture, and mood is very valuable in this profession, but that is only the beginning of an interior designer’s responsibilities. An interior designer must also have the ability to communicate clearly with clients, architects, and contractors about layout plans, budget negotiations, and project deadlines. Unlike interior decorators, interior designers are also accountable for issues such as safety and fire regulations, regional building codes, and handicap access for their projects.

Interior Design Salaries and Jobs

The BLS reports that the median annual wage for interior designers was $44,950 in 2008, and the demand for interior designers is projected to grow 19 percent by 2018. However, since many talented professionals vie for a limited number of jobs, interior design is a highly competitive industry.

Because interior design jobs also require comprehensive knowledge in many different areas, a formal education is the best way to prepare for a career in this field. Furthermore, some states require that you pass a licensing exam before you can use the professional title of interior designer.

Change it Up! Getting an Interior Design Education

Interior design schools and degree programs specialize in curriculums that can give students the training they need for interior design jobs. Interior design school areas of study include design theory, manual and/or CAD drafting, and construction materials. An associate degree in interior design could qualify you for an entry-level position in this industry, but a bachelor’s degree or higher is usually required to advance your career.

If you’re not sure whether your interest in interior design should become a hobby or a career, taking an online interior design course is a great way to test the waters. If you do your research, you should be able to determine if interior design jobs are in your future.