Whether visualizing a brand-new building or giving a fresh look to a tired room, interior designers are artists who play with space to create attractive, functional interiors. Interior designers select the elements that define an interior space, from furniture and paint colors to lighting and floor coverings. They may sketch freehand or use design software to create a plan that suits the client’s needs and preferences… and reflects how the space will be used. Interior designers draft project timelines and estimate costs, place orders for materials, and oversee the installation of design elements. At project completion, they follow up with clients to ensure their satisfaction. Designers must be familiar with building codes, local regulations, and universal accessibility standards. They may work with architects and builders to define permanent aspects of a space, such as the room size and wall or window placement. Some interior designers specialize, for example, in designing healthcare facilities, kitchens and bathrooms, or in using sustainability principles in their work. Meeting with clients during evening and weekend hours may be necessary. A number are self-employed. Typical employers include design firms, architects, and furniture stores. To enter the field, interior designers usually need a bachelor’s degree with a focus on interior design. Some states require licensure.
What they do:
Plan, design, and furnish the internal space of rooms or buildings. Design interior environments or create physical layouts that are practical, aesthetic, and conducive to the intended purposes. May specialize in a particular field, style, or phase of interior design.
On the job, you would:
Design plans to be safe and to be compliant with the American Disabilities Act (ADA).
Coordinate with other professionals, such as contractors, architects, engineers, and plumbers, to ensure job success.
Inspect construction work on site to ensure its adherence to the design plans.
Engineering and Technology
design
building and construction
Business
customer service
management
Arts and Humanities
English language
music, dance, visual arts, drama, or sculpture
Safety and Government
public safety and security
Basic Skills
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
reading work related information
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Social
looking for ways to help people
understanding people's reactions
Verbal
communicate by speaking
listen and understand what people say
Ideas and Logic
create new and original ideas
come up with lots of ideas
Attention
pay attention to something without being distracted
People interested in this work like activities that include creating, designing, and making your own rules.
They do well at jobs that need:
Attention to Detail
Innovation
Dependability
Stress Tolerance
Cooperation
Initiative
You might use software like this on the job:
Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk Revit
Trimble SketchUp Pro
Graphics or photo imaging software
Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
Electronic mail software
Email software
IBM Notes
bachelor's degree usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
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