Interior Designers and Interior Decorators
NOC 5242
Description
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.
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.
Other Titles
- interior design technician
- aircraft interior designer
- office space planner
- retail space planner
- kitchen designer
- space management consultant
- home staging consultant
(Government of Canada National Occupation Classification)
Skills
- Communication
- Customer Service
- Creativity
- Attention to detail
- Knowledge of trends
- Design skills
- Organization
- Time management
Education/Training Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- Most college/university programs in Ontario require an OSSD or Mature Student Status
Post-secondary diploma/degree
- A university degree or college diploma in interior design is usually required
Certification
- The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination may be required after six years of combined study and experience
- Certification by the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario is required to use protected titles related to interior design
Potential Earnings in Durham Region
The average and median wages and salaries for individuals employed as interior designers and decorators are as follows. Place of Residence (POR) is defined as individuals who reside within the Durham Region. Place of Work (POW) is defined as individuals who are employed within the Durham Region.
| Median Wages and Salaries (POR) | Average Wages and Salaries (POR) | Median Wages and Salaries (POW) | Average Wages and Salaries (POW) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $40,626 | $38,494 | $36,434 | $37,158 |
Employment Prospects
| Industry (NAICS) | Jobs in Durham Region (POW) | Durham Region Residents Employed (POR) |
|---|---|---|
| 5414 Specialized design services | 135 | 160 |
(Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development 2016 data in Durham Workforce Authority’s 2017 Sector Report)
Additional Resources
- Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario: https://www.arido.ca/
- Interior Designers of Canada:http://www.idcanada.org/english/