Overview
Interior designers
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Consult with clients to determine needs, preferences, safety requirements and purpose of space
Develop detailed plans and 3-D models showing arrangement of walls, dividers, displays, lighting and other fixtures using computer-assisted design (CAD) software and graphics software
Develop plans, elevations, cross sections and detailed drawings, and advise on selection of colours, finishes and materials, floor and wall coverings, window treatments, interior and exterior lighting, furniture and other items, taking into account ergonomic and occupational health standards
Estimate costs and materials required and may advise on leasing, real estate and marketing
Prepare plans and specifications for the final interior designs in accordance with current practices and codes
Work in a multidisciplinary environment
May direct site work crews and subcontractors.
Interior designers are experts in the area of interior architecture, construction materials and building codes. They may specialize in designing interiors for residential, commercial, institutional, cultural and industrial buildings and for aircraft, ships or trains, trade shows and exhibitions. Interior decorators may specialize in decorating residential or commercial interior spaces, home staging, colour consulting and home organizing.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$41,712
$62,568
$106,282
Job openings
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British Columbia
885expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Interior designers
A university degree or college diploma in interior design is usually required.
The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination may be required after six years of combined study and experience.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Interior designers in B.C.
- Membership with Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Interior designers in B.C.
- National Council for Interior Design Qualification Certification
Membership with Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification. To work as an interior designer with a protected title in B.C., you must register as a member with the Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia. Eligibility is achieved through completion of a bachelors degree in interior design followed by obtaining a prescribed amount of supervised work experience.
Visit websiteNational Council for Interior Design Qualification Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification. To work as an interior designer in B.C., you may choose to take the certification examination from the National Council for Interior Design Qualification. Eligibility is achieved through completion of a minimum of 60 interior design credit hours from an accredited post-secondary institution and work experience requirements that vary depending on the level of education attained.
Visit websiteWork Experience
Work experience recommended
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.