Overview
Interior designers and interior decorators conceptualize and produce aesthetic, functional and safe designs for interior spaces in residential, commercial, cultural, institutional and industrial buildings. They are employed by architectural and interior design firms, retail establishments, construction companies, hospitals, airlines, hotel and restaurant chains, and other establishments, or they may be self-employed.
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
$65,175
$133,854
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
1,228expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Interior decorators
A college certificate or diploma in interior decoration is usually required.
Membership in the Canadian Decorators' Association is available to qualified decorators.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Interior decorators in B.C.
- Membership with the Canadian Decorator's Association
Membership with the Canadian Decorator's Association
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as an interior decorator in B.C., you may choose to register as a member with the Canadian Decorator's Association. Eligibility is achieved through completion of a certificate or diploma program from a recognized educational institution or significant work experience, a formal presentation and letters of reference.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.