Interior designers

Course details

Interior designers conceptualize and produce aesthetic, functional and safe designs for interior spaces in residential, commercial, cultural, institutional and industrial buildings. They are employed by architectural firms, interior design firms, retail establishments, construction companies, hospitals, airlines, hotel and restaurant chains, and other establishments or they may be self-employed.

Interior designers perform 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 colors, finishes and materials, floor and wall coverings, 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 may specialize in designing interiors for residential, commercial, institutional, cultural and industrial buildings, trade shows and exhibitions.