What are the duties and responsibilities of an interior designer?

We’ve got the answers in our ultimate list. Whether you’re looking to hire an interior designer or get hired, our list of interior designer responsibilities will make it easier for you to find your ideal designer or your dream job. 

While the job description for interior designer roles will change based on the specific work environment, our template can be adjusted for most interior design positions and used as your “cheat sheet” to help you create your job post or your resume in no time. Though 91% of interior designers surveyed by Houzz reported being employed by interior design firms, you may also find this resource helpful for design roles at architectural firms, retail businesses, wholesale trade companies and furniture stores.

Our list includes a summary of interior designer job responsibilities, an outline of job duties of an interior designer, as well as preferred skills, education and experience and physical requirements needed. 

Summary Job Description for an Interior Designer Role:

As a creative and detail-oriented interior designer, you will be required to engage with clients to understand their unique design needs and goals for a variety of spaces, conceptualize designs in 2D or 3D plans, collaborate with various stakeholders (vendors, architects, contractors, etc., as needed), source materials and oversee the installation of the final design. Your goal is to help clients achieve their practical and aesthetic objectives for the space, while using your expertise to guide the design process, create functional, artful spaces and project manage every design to successful completion. 

Job Duties of an Interior Designer:

• Meets with clients to identify goals and requirements for the space to be designed and outlines client design objectives.
• Collaborates with architects, engineers, contractors and other experts to achieve the functional and aesthetic needs of the space.
• Analyzes how people operate and move in the space, as well as patterns of use.
• Conceptualizes design plans and prepares sketches or other visual aids to present designs to the client.
• Creates mood boards to help clients visualize your design.
• Consults with the client to choose materials, furnishings and decor that will help fulfill the requirements and vision of the space.
• Uses design applications to create the final plans to be shared with stakeholders.
• Determines the project timeline, costs and presents accurate estimates to clients.
• Orders or obtains design materials (furnishings, decor, etc.), as needed, to meet the project and budget specifications.
• Oversees the installation of design elements. 
• Reviews the project site after final installation to ensure that it meets the original requirements and vision. 
• Addresses any client complaints or concerts and works to ensure client satisfaction.
• Stays up-to-date about current design trends and materials, techniques, and other developments in the interior design field.
• Performs additional related duties as needed.

Interior Design Preferred Skills:

• Creativity, originality and resourcefulness.
• Attuned to design styles and trends.
• Possesses a keen eye for details.
• Can create and install/or oversee installation of interior designs using a variety of styles, colors, textures, materials, furnishings, etc. to bring aesthetic harmony, form and function to a space.
• Strong organizational, time and project management skills.
• Comfortable with multitasking and working on several projects/priorities at a time.
• Ability to solve problems and execute plans effectively.
• Sketching, visual design and computational abilities. 
• Experience using design software.
• Knowledge of building codes and regulations.
• Basic architectural understanding.
• Strong communication, presentation and collaboration skills.
• Capable of articulating your design vision to clients and various stakeholders, contractors, etc.
• Adaptable to changing priorities and needs. 
• Desire to meet or exceed client expectations. 

Interior Design Preferred Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree or certificate in interior design, interior architecture or other applicable area of study.
• Demonstrable design experience (in the form of a portfolio, website, photographs or other).
• Computer-based software design proficiency.

Physical Requirements for Interior Designers:

• Able to communicate clearly and understand others.
• Capable of working on a desktop and/or laptop computer.
• Able to see/sense/feel the difference between colors, shapes, textures, shades and light.
• Can see and distinguish objects at a distance.

Conclusion

Now that you know the details of what interior designers’ responsibilities are, you can start crafting your perfect resume or job description. As we mentioned earlier, feel free to adjust our job description for an interior designer template however you need based on the role you’re hiring for or the job you desire.