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Interior designers plan, direct and undertake the creation of designs for interior spaces, procure materials and oversee implementation of the plans.

Main tasks

  • Ensures building and safety regulations are adhered to.
  • Hires staff and oversees project progress.
  • Sources fixtures, furniture and other necessary materials.
  • Establishes estimated costs, specifies materials and provides detailed drawing of the agreed design.
  • Advises on colours and the materials to be used,.
  • Prepares designs to meet the client's needs and draws up sketches for consideration by the client.
  • Liaises with client to determine the purpose, cost, and scope of the project, which may include the entire building or one room such as the kitchen or bathroom.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£70,789.28

Average earnings

£37,853.65

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Customer and Personal Service

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Administration and Management

Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modelling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Clerical

Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.

Sales and Marketing

Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 2%
Level 1 1%
Level 2 16%
Level 3 15%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 15%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 40%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 7%
Level 8 (Doctorate) 5%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.