Designer: Interior
The Work
Interior designers plan and organise the design and decorating of
interiors in people's homes, offices, hotels, shops, public buildings,
ships and aircraft. This may involve altering an existing interior,
or working on a new building
Designers work with the client or architect to develop a design that suits the building and the client. Designers have to consider the purpose of the building, the cost of the project and the time-scale.
The process involves preparing initial sketches and showing the client samples of fabrics, fittings and furniture. The designer or draughtsman / woman turns the sketches into detailed drawings, usually on a computer. Many interior designers also recommend people to carry out the work on site and supervise their progress. They may be involved with supplying the fittings, flooring, decorations and plants.
Hours and Conditions
Working hours can be quite irregular and might involve working evenings
and weekends.
Designers are usually studio based, but may also spend a great deal of time visiting clients and sites. They might have to spend short periods away from home.
Freelance designers may work from home, share offices or rent a studio.
Skills and Interests
Interior designers need:
Training
Relevant training qualifications include City & Guilds in creative
crafts and manufacturing subjects. A range of NVQs / SVQs in design/manufacturing
subjects are available.
Short courses in various aspects of interior design, including upholstery, decorating techniques and Feng Shui are also available at many colleges. There are postgraduate degrees and diplomas in specialised areas of interior design and related subjects. Entry is usually with a first degree.
The Professional Development Award in Interior Design is available in Scotland.
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24. For details see:
MAPPs
(England)
Skillseekers
(Scotland)
National
Traineeships MAPPs (Wales) and
MAPPs
(Northern Ireland)
Opportunities
There are limited vacancies for interior designers and competition
is very strong.
Employers include retail chains, interior design consultancies, or architectural practices.
Another area of work is with a retail outlet, helping customers choose furnishings, paint, kitchen fittings and so on, and designing plans for them.
Many designers work freelance, and success depends on reputation and a growing client base.
Salary
The annual income section is intended as a guideline only.
Income for interior designers varies depending on the location, sector and size of employer.
Junior designers earn around £13,000 to £18,500 per year.
More experienced interior designers can earn £25,000 upwards
per year.
Designers with considerable experience can earn around £45,000
per year.
Freelance designers may charge anything between £20 and £60+ per hour.
Further Information
Channel 4 is not responsible for the content of third party websites.
The British Interior Design Association (BIDA)
www.bida.org
The Chartered Society of Designers
Tel: 020 7357 8088
www.csd.org.uk
The Design Council
Tel: 020 7420 5200
www.design-council.org.uk
Arts Advice
Tel: 0800 093 0444
www.artsadvice.com
