Interior Designers

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.

SOC: 27-1025.00

Common Job Titles

DesignerInterior Design ConsultantInterior Design CoordinatorInterior Designer

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeCreate interior space designs that balance aesthetic appeal, functionality, and client requirements using CAD software and design principles for residential and commercial projects.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate spatial layouts and design solutions against building codes, safety standards, and client objectives in coordination with architects, contractors, and regulatory requirements.
  • MindsetIntegrate client preferences, lifestyle needs, and budgetary constraints through active listening and consultative dialogue to deliver personalized design solutions.
  • Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of computer-aided design tools including AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp to produce precise technical drawings, 3D renderings, and construction documentation.
  • KnowledgeSolve complex spatial, aesthetic, and functional design challenges by synthesizing architectural constraints, user needs, and creative vision.
  • MindsetAdvocate for design concepts and creative recommendations to clients and stakeholders using persuasive communication and visual presentation materials.
  • KnowledgeCoordinate project timelines, material procurement, and multidisciplinary team activities to ensure on-time delivery within scope and budget parameters.
  • MindsetReconcile conflicting stakeholder expectations and project constraints through negotiation and collaborative problem-solving with clients, vendors, and contractors.
  • KnowledgeDevelop comprehensive design documentation including floor plans, elevations, material boards, and specifications following industry standards and preparing for contractor bidding and installation.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze building construction systems, materials specifications, and installation requirements to ensure design feasibility and compatibility with existing infrastructure.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Interior Designers (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

69,580

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$38,480
10% of workers earn the following or more$106,090
Workers on average earn$71,430

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Design4.9/5
  • Customer and Personal Service4.5/5
  • Building and Construction4.2/5
  • English Language4.1/5
  • Sales and Marketing3.8/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Adobe AcrobatAdobe Creative Cloud softwareAdobe IllustratorAdobe InDesignAdobe PhotoshopAutodesk AutoCADAutodesk RevitMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft WordTrimble SketchUp Pro

Technology Skills

20-20 Technologies 20-20 DesignAutoDesSys form ZAutodesk 3ds MaxAutodesk Architectural DesktopAutodesk Revit ArchitectureAutodesk VIZComputer aided design and drafting software CADDEmail software

Tools & Equipment

Architects' scalesComputer aided design CAD multi-unit display graphics cardsDesktop computersDigital camcordersDigital camerasDigital tape measuresDrafting scalesDrafting triangles