Interior Designers have an eye for color, for spatial orientation, for those aesthetic flares, large and small, that lend character to a physical space. A good interior designer realizes a vision that virtually defines a physical space, whether for a restaurant or a residence, a public building or a private space. Interior designers usually shepherd the entire process for transforming a space, from meeting with the clients and taking a measure of their aesthetic tastes and their budget, and whatever additional physical requirements their design project requires, for safety or regulatory compliance, for example. They must have the ability to appreciate the intended function of a space, and how design elements can be marshalled to enhance and encourage that function, as well as ensuring that a redesign will conform with all applicable building codes.

Once a rough concept and direction are determined, the interior designer moves to the design phase, creating sketches for the client, either by hand or, more commonly today, with a CAD (computer-aided design) program that allows a more precise representation of the design and how it will work within the client's physical space. Upon the client's final approval of the design, the interior designer then goes to work nailing down costs and materials for the project--paint, lighting, wall covering, flooring, art, furniture, fixtures, etc.--often overseeing the hiring of any contractors and the full execution of the design. If the project requires any extensive remodeling, the interior designer will work with architects and engineers as necessary and help secure the requisite permits.

Licensing requirements for Interior Designers vary by state and territory. Half of the American states, for example, require a license or registration, which can be obtained after a 1-3 year internship with an established interior designer or interior design firm.

Interior Design aspirants choosing to study professionally can receive their degrees or certifications in 2-4 years. Depending upon the program and their displayed acumen, graduates can often find positions as assistants to established designers, or qualify for a more prestigious apprenticeship program, where they will become immersed in the more advanced elements of Interior Design, such as spatial orientation, the use of color and textures, CAD, and more.

The Bureau of Labor projects continued steady growth in the Interior Design field over the next decade. For 2004, Interior Designers earned a median annual income of $40,670.