What it is
Interior design is the art and science of making indoor spaces functional, safe, and beautiful — determining space requirements, selecting materials and furnishings, and ensuring spaces meet building codes and clients' needs. It blends creativity with technical and business skills (distinct from decorating).
What you'll study
Programs blend design studio with technical skills:
- FoundationDesign principles, color, drawing, and space planning
- CoreMaterials, lighting, building codes, and computer-aided design (CAD, Revit)
- AppliedResidential and commercial design studios, sustainability, and a portfolio
- CredentialMany pursue the NCIDQ exam; some states license interior designers
Concentrations & focus areas
- Residential DesignHomes
- Commercial DesignOffices & retail
- Hospitality DesignHotels & restaurants
- Sustainable DesignGreen interiors
- Healthcare DesignMedical spaces
- Kitchen & BathSpecialized
Skills you'll build
- Design & space planningFunctional, beautiful spaces
- CAD / visualizationDesign software
- Materials & codesTechnical knowledge
- Client managementInterpreting needs
- CreativityAesthetic vision
Careers & job titles
- Interior designerThe core role (~$63,490)
- Commercial / residential designerBy sector
- Hospitality / healthcare designerSpecialized
- Design consultantAdvisory
- Kitchen & bath designerSpecialty
- Design firm ownerWith experience
Job outlook & demand
The BLS projects interior designers to grow about 3% (as fast as average), with ~7,800 openings a year. Demand is supported by renovation, commercial projects, and specialties like healthcare, hospitality, and sustainable design.
Pay: median, range & trajectory
Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), interior designers had a median wage of $63,490. Commercial and specialized designers, and firm owners, earn more; the NCIDQ credential and a strong portfolio aid advancement.
Degree levels it's offered at
Offered across these levels — click a level to learn about it:
A bachelor's is the typical entry (some states license interior designers); a strong portfolio and the NCIDQ exam aid careers.
Is it right for you?
You might thrive here if you are creative and detail-oriented, enjoy blending art with function, and like working with clients and spaces.
Note: interior design is more technical than decorating (codes, CAD, safety) — build a strong portfolio and consider commercial/healthcare specialties for the best prospects.
Explore further
Keep exploring:
Key facts
- FocusFunctional, safe, beautiful indoor spaces
- StudyDesign, materials, lighting, codes, CAD
- CareersInterior designer (residential, commercial, hospitality)
- OutlookAs fast as average (BLS)
- Pay$63,490 median (BLS)
Where to learn more
Authoritative sources for careers and pay: