What Does an Interior Designer Do?
An interior designer creates visually appealing, functional, and safe interior environments for residential, commercial, or institutional spaces. These professionals work closely with clients to understand their goals, preferences, and budget, then translate that vision into detailed design plans. Interior designers manage every phase of a project, from concept development and space planning to material selection, lighting layout, and installation oversight. Their work blends aesthetics with technical precision, ensuring that each space meets both the client’s expectations and regulatory requirements.
Interior designers collaborate with architects, contractors, and vendors to bring their designs to life. They produce floor plans, 3D renderings, and finish schedules, as well as source furniture, fixtures, and materials. Depending on the scope of the project, designers may also navigate building codes, ADA compliance, and fire safety regulations. Successful interior designers combine creativity with practical knowledge to deliver spaces that are both beautiful and built for how people live, work, or interact within them.
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Interior Designer Core Responsibilities
- Consult with clients to determine design preferences, budget, and space functionality
- Develop design concepts using sketches, floor plans, mood boards, and 3D visualizations
- Prepare technical drawings and documentation using AutoCAD, Revit, or similar tools
- Source materials, furnishings, fixtures, and finishes in alignment with project goals
- Coordinate with architects, contractors, engineers, and vendors throughout the project lifecycle
- Conduct site visits to oversee installation and ensure design intent is executed
- Ensure designs comply with local building codes, ADA standards, and safety regulations
- Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables
- Present design concepts and revisions to clients and stakeholders
- Maintain awareness of current trends, materials, and technologies in interior design
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit)
- Experience with design software like Adobe Creative Suite and 3D rendering programs
- Strong knowledge of space planning, material selection, and color theory
- Familiarity with building codes, ADA guidelines, and construction documentation
- Project budgeting and vendor coordination
Soft skills
- Creative thinking and aesthetic sensibility
- Clear communication and active listening
- Client-focused approach with strong presentation skills
- Collaboration with cross-functional teams
- Time management and adaptability under deadlines
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in interior design, architecture, or related field required
- Degree must typically come from a CIDA-accredited program for licensure consideration
Certifications
- NCIDQ Certification (required in states with licensure regulations; preferred by many employers)
- LEED Accreditation recommended for sustainable design-focused roles
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with project management software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com)
- Prior work on multi-phase or multi-site design projects
- Familiarity with sustainable materials and design practices
- Specialization in a specific industry sector (e.g., hospitality, healthcare)
National Average Salary
Interior designer salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for an Interior Designer is:
$64,868
Sample Job Description Templates for Interior Designers
Junior Interior Designer
Position Overview
We are seeking a Junior Interior Designer to assist our design team in delivering functional and visually compelling spaces. This entry-level role supports the development of design concepts, helps produce technical drawings, and manages sourcing of finishes and materials. The ideal candidate brings creativity, attention to detail, and a strong desire to learn in a fast-paced design environment.
Responsibilities
- Assist with space planning and layout development under senior designer supervision
- Create 2D drawings and 3D visualizations using AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp
- Prepare client presentations, mood boards, and material samples
- Source and document FF&E selections for review and procurement
- Support site visits, field measurements, and installation coordination
- Maintain organized design documentation and project records
- Research products, vendors, and materials for design solutions
- Attend team meetings and take notes or follow up on assigned action items
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in AutoCAD and design rendering software (e.g., SketchUp, Enscape, Adobe Suite)
- Basic understanding of construction documents and material specifications
- Strong visual presentation and drafting skills
Soft skills
- Willingness to learn and take feedback
- Detail-oriented and organized work habits
- Collaborative attitude and communication skills
- Creative thinking with a client-first mindset
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in interior design or related field (CIDA-accredited program preferred)
Certifications
- NCIDQ exam eligibility in progress (preferred)
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or prior experience in a design firm
- Familiarity with FF&E libraries and vendor databases
Senior Interior Designer
Position Overview
We are hiring a Senior Interior Designer to lead the creative direction and execution of interior design projects from concept through completion. This role manages client relationships, directs design development, and ensures delivery of high-quality work that aligns with both aesthetic goals and functional needs. Ideal candidates bring leadership, technical expertise, and a refined design vision.
Responsibilities
- Lead design concepts, presentations, and finish selections for multiple projects
- Oversee technical documentation and review construction drawings for accuracy
- Manage client meetings and project communications from start to finish
- Supervise junior staff and mentor team members in best practices
- Ensure adherence to building codes, ADA regulations, and industry standards
- Collaborate with architects, engineers, and contractors to resolve design challenges
- Coordinate material and product procurement in collaboration with project managers
- Conduct site visits and provide installation oversight
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced CAD and BIM skills (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite)
- Proficient in contract documentation, detailing, and FF&E specifications
- Knowledge of commercial codes and compliance standards
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and decision-making ability
- Excellent client communication and presentation skills
- Strategic problem-solving and time management
- Mentorship mindset for junior team members
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in interior design, architecture, or related field
Certifications
- NCIDQ Certification (preferred; required in licensed states)
Preferred Qualifications
- 6+ years of experience in interior design with portfolio of completed projects
- Experience in managing commercial or high-end residential design work
Interior Design Project Manager
Position Overview
We are looking for an Interior Design Project Manager to lead design teams, coordinate resources, and ensure on-time, on-budget project delivery. This role oversees the execution of all design phases while maintaining alignment with client goals, design intent, and construction timelines. It requires a mix of creative oversight, logistical coordination, and client-facing communication.
Responsibilities
- Manage interior design projects from kickoff through final walkthrough
- Set project schedules, allocate team resources, and track progress against deadlines
- Coordinate consultant input, contractor communications, and submittal reviews
- Oversee procurement of FF&E, finish packages, and custom installations
- Lead meetings with clients and stakeholders to maintain alignment and resolve issues
- Approve final drawings and shop drawings prior to production
- Monitor budget usage and prepare cost-tracking reports
- Ensure documentation complies with code and quality standards
Requirements
Hard skills
- Experience with project management platforms (e.g., Asana, MS Project)
- Proficiency in CAD and visualization tools
- Strong grasp of technical drawings and FF&E management
Soft skills
- Leadership and cross-functional coordination
- Strong verbal and written communication
- Time and budget accountability
- Ability to resolve design and logistical conflicts quickly
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in interior design, architecture, or a related discipline
Certifications
- NCIDQ Certification (preferred)
- PMP or project management training (a plus)
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of project management experience in a design-focused role
- Familiarity with commercial construction timelines and vendor coordination
Freelance Interior Designer
Position Overview
We are seeking a Freelance Interior Designer to support clients with end-to-end design services on a per-project or hourly basis. This independent contractor role includes client consultation, space planning, sourcing, and overseeing installations. Candidates must be self-motivated, well-organized, and capable of managing both design tasks and business development.
Responsibilities
- Conduct design consultations to understand client needs and lifestyle preferences
- Create floor plans, color palettes, and mood boards for approval
- Source materials, finishes, and furnishings within client budgets
- Coordinate vendor deliveries, tradespeople, and installation logistics
- Maintain client communication and manage revisions or scope changes
- Invoice clients and track project timelines independently
- Build referral relationships and manage a personal design portfolio
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in design software (SketchUp, AutoCAD, Canva, or similar)
- Budget management and vendor sourcing
- Understanding of residential codes and safe design practices
Soft skills
- Entrepreneurial and self-motivated
- Friendly, professional client service
- Organizational and time management skills
- Creative thinking within budget constraints
Education
- Bachelor’s degree or certificate in interior design or related field
Certifications
- None required
- NCIDQ or other design credentials recommended for credibility
Preferred Qualifications
- Portfolio of completed freelance or solo design projects
- Experience with home renovation or custom furniture sourcing
Residential Interior Designer
Position Overview
We are looking for a Residential Interior Designer to create personalized, functional, and beautiful living spaces tailored to client lifestyles. This role involves space planning, concept development, and full project execution, with a focus on home environments including kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, and outdoor areas.
Responsibilities
- Meet with clients to understand needs, budget, and personal aesthetic
- Develop concept boards, layouts, and finish schedules for client approval
- Specify furnishings, finishes, lighting, and accessories
- Manage purchasing, vendor coordination, and on-site installation
- Address client feedback and manage project revisions smoothly
- Stay current on residential design trends and emerging materials
- Provide design support for remodeling and new construction projects
Requirements
Hard skills
- Knowledge of furniture layout, material selection, and lighting design
- Proficiency in design software (AutoCAD, SketchUp, Photoshop)
- Experience managing home installations and residential codes
Soft skills
- Empathetic and personalized client communication
- Creativity with a focus on practical functionality
- Strong sense of style and aesthetic judgment
- Flexibility and adaptability to changing project needs
Education
- Degree or certification in interior design or related field
Certifications
- None required
- NCIDQ recommended, especially for higher-end residential markets
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with custom homes, renovations, or real estate staging
- Bilingual ability for multicultural clientele
Commercial Interior Designer
Position Overview
We are hiring a Commercial Interior Designer to plan and deliver design solutions for offices, retail spaces, and institutional environments. This role requires technical expertise, code compliance knowledge, and the ability to develop large-scale layouts that enhance user experience, brand identity, and operational efficiency.
Responsibilities
- Lead space planning, programming, and finish selections for commercial interiors
- Produce construction documentation and coordinate with MEP and architectural consultants
- Select commercial-grade materials, furnishings, and fixtures
- Ensure compliance with fire, accessibility, and building code standards
- Present design concepts to business stakeholders and respond to feedback
- Collaborate with contractors and vendors throughout the buildout process
- Participate in punch walks and final quality checks
Requirements
Hard skills
- CAD and BIM proficiency (AutoCAD, Revit)
- Knowledge of commercial code requirements (e.g., ADA, IBC)
- FF&E sourcing and vendor negotiation
- Construction documentation and RFI response
Soft skills
- Strong communication with business clients and consultants
- Project coordination and task delegation
- Creative problem-solving in high-function spaces
- Time and scope management under deadlines
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in interior design or related field
Certifications
- NCIDQ Certification (preferred; required for licensed states)
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience designing commercial interiors
- Familiarity with LEED principles or WELL Building standards