Designers work on many different kinds of projects. They work in people's homes to redo living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms. But they also work in business settings. Restaurants, banks, and offices all hire designers to create and update their look. Even car and plane manufacturers use designers to make the most of tight spaces.

Designers start by meeting with clients to find out their needs. Their job is to create a vision for the project. First, they need to get a sense of their clients' taste, lifestyle, and budget.

Then they take measurements and photos of the space. They look at blueprints, too. This helps them see where the wiring, lighting, and plumbing components are. They also need to know which parts of the room are important to the safety of the structure.

For example, it may seem like a good idea to knock down a wall to open up a space. But designers have to make sure it's not a load-bearing wall. Taking one of those out could cause the ceiling to collapse. Designers must have a good understanding of building codes and permit requirements.

The next step is to make a sketch or computer image of the new room design. Designers then show it to clients for approval. These images include all the details of the new space. They may also provide samples of paint, wallpaper, carpeting, and other materials.

When a design is approved, it's time to build. Designers keep track of the budget and project deadlines. They coordinate all the workers who build the space. This includes painters, tilers, and movers.

Most interior designers work in both residential and commercial spaces. But many prefer one or the other. Most also specialize in a particular area. For instance, they might focus on designing for hotels, restaurants, or retail stores.

Creativity and good taste are important to interior designers. But their job is always to serve their clients first. When they disagree with clients, there is little designers can do. They can suggest alternatives or guide clients in a certain direction. But in the end, the client has the final say.

Pay depends on their location, reputation, and experience. Experienced designers in big cities have the highest incomes. Those with 20 years of experience or more average about $100,000 a year. The very top earners can make much more than that.

Designers can charge by the hour, by the project, or per square foot. Most charge a fee for drawing up plans.

Salaried interior designers often receive benefits, such as health and dental coverage and sick days. Self-employed designers must provide their own benefits.

 

Most designers work between 35 and 40 hours a week. They may adjust their workday to suit their clients' schedules. Weekend or evening work is often required. That's when many clients are available to meet. It also might be necessary to finish a project on time.

Self-employed designers tend to work longer and more irregular hours. In addition to design work, they need to attract their own clients. This can keep them very busy.

A lot of design work is done on a project basis. There are often periods of intense work followed by slow phases. Work is also tied to the strength of the economy. When the economy is poor, construction slows down. And people don't spend money on their homes during these periods.

To become an interior designer, you need some post-secondary education. Many colleges offer interior design programs. You can get an associate degree or a bachelor's degree. An associate degree usually takes 2 years to finish. A bachelor's degree takes about 4 years.

These programs are all a bit different. But most include courses in design history and color theory. You'll also learn about lighting and sustainable design. There will also be classes in drafting and design software. And you'll get instruction in business and marketing.

In most states, you need to be licensed or certified by a state regulatory agency. After completing a design program, you need to get some experience. You may have to work under a qualified interior designer for several years. It takes about 6 years of education and work experience to become certified. But each state has different requirements.

It's a good idea to contact the designers' association in your state. They can let you know exactly what you need to do to certify.

It is also possible to earn a master's degree in interior design. This isn't necessary for licensure or certification. But it can help you advance in the field, and even earn more money.

The last step to becoming certified is to pass an exam. The test is given by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ).