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Interior Decorator

Interior decorators plan and implement decoration schemes for homes, offices, shops, hotels and venues.

Interior decorators may have to work extended or irregular hours to meet clients' needs.

TASKS

Interior decorators may perform the following tasks:

advise clients on the selection of colour schemes, layout, lighting, furniture, floor coverings, curtains, paint, wallpaper and hardware products (such as curtain fittings)
visit clients' premises to look at existing conditions and make measurements
provide sketch designs, specifications and cost estimates to the client for approval
supervise and coordinate the installation and arrangement of furniture and furnishings
undertake direct selling if working in a retail shop

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

creativity
good understanding of colour
able to promote ideas
awareness of fashion and design trends
able to interact well with a variety of people

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as an interior decorator without formal qualifications, but employers usually require Year 10. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in interior decoration or interior design and decoration. Applicants may be required to attend an interview and/or submit a folio of work. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Interior decorators work as retail decorator consultants, freelance decorators, consultants and managers with large department outlets, architectural support staff, colour scheme coordinators, retail sales assistants and decorators for the wholesale sector of the profession. Some experienced decorators establish their own businesses.

Many decorators are employed to decorate new residential and commercial properties.

Competition for employment as an interior decorator is very strong. A good deal of training takes place on the job and, as with other artistic areas, those who can demonstrate a high degree of talent and flair are more likely to gain employment.