"Mini-Guide" to Interior Decorating Online Programs

The interior design industry focuses on using space in its greatest capacity with regards to function, safety and aesthetics. Primary considerations include the placement of windows, walls, doors, furniture, lighting, as well as the use of textures, finishes and furnishings.

Interior decorators work with clients to coordinate the kind of décor and function a space will have, considering elements such as color, fabrics, textiles, etc. They can work with interior designers and work with the detailed planning of spatial arrangements considering safety, constructability, technical aspects, and aesthetics of a specific space.

They plan the use of space for offices, restaurants, hotels, schools, hospitals, and private residences. Interior design may involve some elements of interior decorating, but the focus is more on the optimal use of a particular space instead of just focusing on color palettes, window coverings and decorations.

The responsibilities of an interior decorators may vary, but most projects follow a general process. Interior decorators may be involved in some or all of the following:

• Identify and analyze client needs and goals, safety requirements, budget limitations and project schedules
• Take inventory of existing space, furnishings and fixtures
• Draft design plans, preferrably using computer-aided design (CAD) for ease in adjustments
• Estimate costs, prepare budgets and develop project timelines
• Present project plans to the client for approval
• Coordinate and collaborate with other professional and technical consultants such as architects, electricians, and building contractors
• Oversee that plans are followed and safety codes are adhered to
• Conduct field reviews of construction and installation of furnishings, fixtures and equipment
• Review and evaluate projects on behalf of clients, during implementation and upon completion

Interior designers can specialize in a specific area. These areas of design include:

• Contract Interior Design
• Residential Interior Design
• Healthcare Interior Design
• Hospitality Interior Design
• Government Interior Design
• Interior Design Educator
• Ergonomic Interior Design
• Green Interior Design

Working conditions for interior decorators vary depending on the scope of their employment. Those working for large design corporations typically work standard business hours in an office setting. Others who work for smaller firms may work on contract or a per job basis.

Approximately 26 percent of interior decorators and designers are self-employed. Freelance or self-employed interior designers may work from home or an office. Duties include finding new clients; traveling to meet with clients at varying locations, possibly outside of normal business hours; dealing with budget constraints; and general aspects of running a business.

Interior decorators may work in the following settings:

• Building development/construction companies
• Furniture and home improvement stores
• Interior design firms
• Architectural and landscape architectural firms
• Building material and supply dealers
• Schools, universities, hospitals, hotels, and restaurants
• Corporate and government planning offices
• Manufacturing plants
• Property management companies

To meet the competitive demands of this field, interior decorators and designers need the following:

• Interviewing skills to determine the scope of work and the client's needs
• The ability to communicate ideas into images, written and graphic work
• Creative, artistic and design skills
• The ability to read blue prints
• Proficiency in the use of computer-aided design (CAD)
• The ability to work both individually and as part of a team
• Time management skills to work on several projects in different stages at one time
• The ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines

Interior design salaries can vary widely depending on some of the following factors:

• The type of employer
• The number of years of experience
• Individual reputation
• Developing a specialty
• Geographical location and population growth

According to the salary data provided by Payscale.com, the average annual salary for interior decorators who are self-employed is $45,000 and interior decorators who work with a firm is an average of $37,000. Interior decorators with the greatest amount of professional experience (more than ten years) earned more than those who have just started working in the field.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for interior designers in May 2006 was $42, 260, with the middle 50 percent earning between $31, 830 and $57,230. Interior designers with a developed specialty or those working for architectural firms typically earn higher and more stable salaries.

Employment of interior decorators and designers is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations with an expected growth to be around 19 percent through 2016. The greatest demands are expected to be in the hospitality industry, which includes hotels, resorts, and restaurants, as well as the health care industry to accommodate the aging population.

Interior decorators who choose to develop a specialty will likely be in demand. This includes those who specialize in the increasing popular area of "green" design and ergonomic design. Green design involves selecting and designing building and decorating materials with consideration of energy efficiency and decreased exposure to chemical and allergens. Ergonomic design involves the selection of furniture and work space to enhance good posture and decrease muscle strain.