What Skills Should Interior Designers Have?

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Learn the Skills You Need to Become an Interior Designer
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Photoshop
Photoshop is a software application created by Adobe for image editing and photo retouching on Windows or macOS computers. Photoshop can be used to manipulate and retouch photos. It can also be used to create compositions, collages, design comprehensives, and more.
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AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a commercial computer-aided design and drafting software developed by Autodesk. AutoCAD is used to create 2D drawings and 3D models.
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CAD
Computer-aided design (CAD) is a technology used to create, modify, and optimize precise 2D and 3D designs. CAD software is widely used in engineering, architecture, and product design to streamline the drafting and modeling process.
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SketchUp
SketchUp is a 3D modeling software known for its intuitive interface and versatile design tools, making it popular among architects, interior designers, and engineers. It allows users to create detailed models for buildings, landscapes, and product designs.
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Interior Design
Interior Designer Salaries
An Interior Designer in the United States makes, on average, $68,991 annually, according to Indeed.com.
Salaries for Interior Designers vary by region within the the United States. Listed below are some Interior Designer salaries for specific areas with the United States compared with the average national salary:
- U.S. Average $68K source n/a
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Los Angeles, CA
$85K
source
+23.36%
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New York City
$84K
source
+22.53%
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Orange County, CA
$79K
source
+14.68%
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Washington, D.C.
$78K
source
+14.04%
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Dallas, TX
$78K
source
+13.84%
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Alexandria, VA
$73K
source
+6.86%
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Fairfax, VA
$69K
source
+1.17%
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Houston, TX
$69K
source
+0.71%
- U.S. Average $68K source n/a
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Chicago, IL
$68K
source
-0.44%
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Miami, FL
$66K
source
-3.25%
Additional Interior Designer Resources
Related Careers
Interior Designers develop functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces, often collaborating with CAD Drafters and CAD Managers to execute their vision. Those interested in the technical side of design may transition into CAD-related roles, ensuring plans are accurately documented. Designers who enjoy concept development and client collaboration may explore broader Designer roles, specializing in furniture, lighting, or staging. With additional experience, Interior Designers can transition into project management or even architectural support positions, overseeing large-scale design implementations.
Salary Comparison to Interior Designer
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CAD Manager
$91K
+33.19%
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Designer
$76K
+10.98%
- Interior Designer $68K n/a
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CAD Drafter
$59K
-14.31%
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CAD Drafter
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$59K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$74K / year
A CAD drafter is responsible for creating detailed technical drawings and plans using computer-aided design (CAD) software, converting concepts and ideas into precise blueprints for buildings, machinery, or products. They meticulously draft and revise these drawings, incorporating dimensions, specifications, and annotations to ensure accurate representation for construction or manufacturing purposes.
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CAD Manager
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$91K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$90K / year
CAD Managers oversee complex, multi-stage drafting projects undertaken for design, development and construction projects.
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Designer
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$76K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$94K / year
Designers work in a wide variety of industries and specialize in just as many mediums. Most designers create digital assets, but some designers work with hand-drawn sketches and illustrations. They start with an understanding of the best design principles and functional aesthetics. Common fields for designers include web, apps, print, fashion, animation, advertising, and UX design.