Interior Designer

What does an Interior Designer do?

Interior Designers and Decorators identify, research, and creatively solve problems pertaining to the function and quality of the interior environment; perform services relative to interior spaces, including programming, design analysis, space planning and anesthetics, using specialized knowledge of interior construction, building codes, equipment, materials and furnishings; and prepare drawings and documents relative to the design of interior spaces in order to enhance and protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

Specialties: Facility Space Managers.

Salary and Employment Outlook:

California Occupational Guides

Occupational Outlook Handbook

America's Career Info Net

Typical Employers:

Interior Designers and Decorators are employed by department and furniture stores, large hotel and restaurant chains, clubs, shipping lines, hospitals, office building owners and architectural firms. They also work for furniture, and other soft goods and wallpaper manufacturers, interior design firms, educational institutions and government agencies. A large number are Self-Employed Decorators and Free-Lance Designers.

Preparation:

People with college training (A.A. degree) will have a better chance of finding a job. Some community colleges and private schools offer programs related to interior design and interior architecture. Accredited bachelor's degree programs are offered in most states. Employers prefer graduates of design programs but they expect to provide additional on-the-job training. To be considered experienced, it usually takes three to five years. Work experience (such as a field placement) is very helpful in obtaining a job. Workers often start as assistants, associates, or apprentices before being considered a professional designer.

Educational Program(s):

  • Interior Design
  • Related Programs: Architecture and Environmental Design, Art, Home Economics

    DVC Certificate Program in Architecture Technology:

    What does DVC offer?

    Web Resources:

    California Occupational Guides

    Occupational Outlook Handbook

    O*NET

    America's Career Info Net

    Princeton Review

    Career Zone

    College Board