How to become an interior designer

Build a career creating captivating spaces, functional designs, and aesthetic masterpieces.

“Designing authentic and engaging interiors performs a critical role in shaping our cities and the way we live,” says Dr. Roger Kemp, Associate Dean, Interior Design at RMIT.

The interiors we occupy can have a powerful impact on the way we live our lives. But what does it take to become an interior designer?

“Being curious and attentive to our surroundings, including the way people live and behave is important in understanding how spaces can be effective.” says Dr. Phoebe Whitman, Lecturer of Interior Design at RMIT.

Illustration of an interior/exterior outdoor community green space.

Becoming an interior designer

“Students graduating from the Bachelor of Interior Design (Hons) can move into a range of career settings such as commercial, retail interior design, exhibition design, set design, event design, design strategy and design writing and publication” Explains Dr. Whitman

At RMIT, there are a variety of educational pathways available to suit diverse needs and career goals.

Choose an interior design course

Gain industry experience

Getting a placement or internship is a fantastic way to gain practical experience, learn from industry professionals, and make valuable connections. It is like a sneak peek into the world of interior design, giving you a chance to see what the job is really like day-to-day.

RMIT provides students with support in finding and applying for internships, including networking opportunities with professionals in the industry and invitations to attend industry events.

Build an interior design portfolio

When applying for the Bachelor of Interior Design program, Dr. Whitman advises, “When collating your portfolio, we suggest including a diversity of design and artwork that demonstrate your curiosity and creativity. Strong portfolios exhibit a willingness to engage in ideas and exploratory methods.”

At RMIT you will build your portfolio throughout your degree as Dr. Whitman explains, “We run a professional practise course in the final semester of the fourth year, which provides an opportunity for students to reflect on and critically evaluate all the projects that they have completed. We help them write a cover letter, compose a CV, and build a professional portfolio.”

To work as an interior designer, you will need an in-depth and varied portfolio of work that highlights your skills and capabilities relevant to potential employers and clients. This will typically include the documentation of projects completed throughout your studies alongside any professional experienced obtained alongside your studies. Strong design and technical skills are important alongside soft skills such as communication, collaboration, and professionalism.

What does an interior designer do, and how does this differ from an interior decorator?

Interior designers conceptualise, plan and detail a range of interior environments including commercial, civic, industrial and residential spaces. They also consider various factors that influence our responses to different environments, whether they are living or working spaces. One of the key aspects of their job is to consider the purpose, efficiency, comfort, safety, and aesthetics of interior spaces. They plan space allocation, manage traffic flow, and coordinating building services. They are also responsible for the selection of furniture, fixtures, furnishings, and material finishes.

While there may be some overlap in the roles of an interior designer and an interior decorator, there are key differences that distinguish the two professions. An interior decorator primarily concentrates on the aesthetics of a space. Their role involves working with elements such as furniture, textiles, paint colours, and accessories to create a specific look or feel. Their focus is on enhancing the existing space rather than altering its structure or layout.

Illustration of an interior/exterior outdoor community apartment space..

What are the daily tasks and duties of an interior designer?

Dr. Kemp says, “It depends on what role you have in an interior designer practice. If you have a client facing role, you will liaise with clients and stakeholders. You may be working directly with builders and tradespeople and undertake site visits to manage the implementation of a project. Other aspects include the development of client presentation and contract documentation.”

Day-to-day tasks can include:

  • Collaborating with clients and stakeholders to understand the goals and limitations of the design brief

  • Investigating and assessing the space's functional needs, efficiency, safety considerations, and aesthetic appeal 

  • Developing creative design concepts for the interiors of buildings

  • Crafting sketches, diagrams, illustrations, and plans to effectively convey design ideas using industry standard software such as AutoCad and Photoshop

  • Engaging in discussions with clients, management, suppliers, and construction staff to agree on design solutions

  • Choosing, specifying, and suggesting both functional and visually pleasing materials, furniture, and products for interior spaces

  • Finalising and documenting the chosen design in detail for construction purposes.

Where do interior designers work?

Interior designers have the flexibility to work across a diverse range of sectors and organisations. This includes interior design and architecture firms, furniture retailers, and design and build practices. Many interior designers are self-employed, this versatility allows them to work on a variety of projects and continually expand their skills and expertise.

Dr. Kemp explains, “Design skills are highly sought after by other industries and workplaces identifying the value of design-focused thinking. Design Strategy is an emerging field utilising methods such as design practice research, co-design and systems thinking.”

How much do interior designers earn?

The median weekly earnings for interior designers in Australia is $2,612 per week*.

Learn more about your interior design study options

Whether you're a Year 12 student weighing up your options, thinking about switching careers or a professional looking to expand your skills, RMIT is ranked as #1 in Australia and #18 in the world for studies in art and design^, so no matter which course you choose, RMIT's vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses will equip you with the skills and knowledge for a creative career in the interior design industry.

*Source: www.jobsandskills.gov.au 2023

^QS rankings by subject 2024

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.