What does an interior designer do?

Interior designers deal primarily with interior spaces, using design principles and aesthetic understanding to transform the space into something stylish and functional. While it is important to have a personal sense of style, interior designers must be able to collaborate with a client on the creative brief to make the space suit their needs and taste. Their job entails creating design and style concepts that work with the architectural plans, helping to select a colour scheme and mood for a room. When the overall concept has been confirmed, interior designers are tasked with sourcing or commissioning furniture, artwork, painting, fixtures and furnishings for the space, while staying within the limits of the project’s budget.

Tasks:

  • Create and draw up work plans
  • Source furniture and fixtures
  • Pitch ideas to clients
  • Supervise workers and tradespeople
  • Adhere to client budget

What skills do I need to be an interior designer?

Interior design requires people who are adept at thinking both creatively and technically. Being able to communicate and delegate efficiently is a must for an interior designer. A superb attention to detail is also vital to maintaining the integrity of your work. Interior designers are required to liaise with all manner of people in the course of a project, including property owners, fellow designers, tradespeople, vendors and clients. They are responsible for managing the deadline and budget on a project.

Skills/attributes
  • Attention to detail
  • Superb communication skills
  • Awareness of design trends
  • Ability to delegate and manage others
  • Highly organised and efficient
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Specialisations

There are many specialised roles for a qualified interior designer, each with its own exciting qualities. Depending on what area you choose to specialise in, education and work experience requirements may differ.

Production design

The film industry is an alluring prospect for many and becoming a production designer is an excellent entry into the film world. Utilise your skills as an interior designer to help create set pieces and furnish rooms on a film set. Organisation and time management are crucial to maintain pace with a film’s shooting schedule.

Textile designer

Being a textile designer will require you to come up with new and inventive ideas for different fabrics and textiles. This is a great opportunity for interior designers who also have a flair for the arts and skills in drawing, painting or computer-aided design.

Props department

Props department refers to the people in charge of the storage, creation and building of sets and set pieces in the film and theatre. The props department collaborate with the director of a piece to source or make the items required to achieve their vision for the script.

Study pathways for interior designers

There are a number of study pathways available for those considering a career in interior design. You can tailor your study needs to suit your personal strengths and direct you towards your preferred specialisation.

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Getting Started

Begin honing your aesthetic eye and learning skills to become an interior designer

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Skill Building

Study for a rewarding career; build up an understanding of the professional principles that inform interior design.

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Professional Development

Brush up on skills, techniques and knowledge to help you get ahead in the competitive design industry.

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Industry Recognition

Once you’ve received your qualifications and spent some time working in the field, you can apply to become a member of the Design Institute of Australia, which will improve your standing within the industry.

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Getting a job after graduation

Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your design career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed

Job Prospects and Salaries

There is expected to be strong growth in employment opportunities over the next five years for interior designers in Australia.

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