Interior designers plan, design, detail and supervise the construction of residential, commercial, industrial and retail building interiors to produce an environment tailored to a purpose. The role emphasises space creation, space planning, and factors that enhance living and working environments.
A great interior designer who works in residential building is a strong creative with a keen eye for detail. Their well-developed spatial awareness is coupled with an ability to bring others’ creative ideas to life and understand the emotional power of creating a beautiful home.
Researches and analyses spatial, functional, economic, ergonomic, comfort, safety, sustainability, inclusivity and aesthetic requirements of interior spaces.
Creates designs that encourage and facilitate optimal use of a space.
Generates presentations, renderings and 3D visualisations to illustrate interior design concepts.
Selects materials, finishes, furnishings and decorative elements to enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the space.
Details and documents new interior building work for construction to comply with required building codes, standards and authorities.
Consults and coordinates with clients, stakeholders, users and specialist consultants to determine objectives and constraints on interior design projects.
Communicates ideas to clients, stakeholders and collaborators using CAD software and other visualisation tools to develop realistic representations of proposed interior designs.
Collaborates with architects, contractors, vendors and suppliers to ensure that designs are executed according to specifications, budget and time constraints.
There are study options in VET and through universities. The entry level qualification through VET is the Certificate IV in Interior Decoration, and there are more advanced qualifications such as the Diploma of Interior Design and the Advanced Diploma of Interior Design.
University courses that lead to a career in interior design go by a range of names, examples include a Bachelor of Interior Design and a Bachelor of Design in Interior Architecture. Interior design may also be an optional area of study in some university level qualifications in architecture and the built environment.
Megan Nastrom is an Interior Designer and Co-Founder of Ultra Living Homes. ‘As an interior designer, what I love most about my role is being involved in shaping a home from the very beginning,’ Megan says.
‘I work closely with house plans and play a key role in the selection of materials and finishes that form the foundation of a home’s look and feel,’ she adds. ‘From the external façade to the internal elements such as flooring, tiles, cabinetry, benchtops, handles, lighting, and more — every detail is thoughtfully considered to ensure a cohesive and functional design outcome,’ she continues.
What Megan finds most rewarding is bringing a creative vision to life through well-considered design choices that enhance both the aesthetics and liveability of a space. ‘Interior design allows me to combine creativity with practicality, helping to create homes that are not only visually beautiful but also feel comfortable, balanced, and timeless,’ she explains.
‘Creativity has always been a strong part of who I am, and I’ve always had a natural passion for design and creating beautiful spaces,’ she says. ‘The building industry provided the perfect opportunity to channel that creativity into something tangible and meaningful. When the opportunity arose to be part of a building company, it felt like a natural fit — a way to combine my creative strengths with the practical side of home design.’
Her participation in a house build from the very beginning is one of the most satisfying aspects of the role. ‘Being involved in the process of bringing a home to life, from concept through to completion, is incredibly fulfilling,’ she says. ‘It’s a career that allows me to make an impact through thoughtful design and contribute to creating spaces that people genuinely love living in.’
Megan’s advice is simple: ‘Go for it! Interior design is such a rewarding space for anyone with a creative or artistic flair. If you feel drawn to it, trust that instinct and explore it further.’
Megan recommends exploring shorter forms of education first if you’re still considering things. ‘If you aren’t quite sure, you certainly don’t have to dive straight into a degree. You can always first explore several other pathways such as completing a short course, certificate or diploma,’ she says. ‘This will allow you to ‘dip your toes in’ and see if it’s the right fit for you. It’s also a great way to build confidence, learn the foundations, and start developing your unique design style without the pressure of a long-term commitment. If you’re passionate about creating beautiful spaces and have an eye for detail, there’s definitely a place for you, in the building industry,’ she concludes.
Trust your creativity and instincts.
Your natural design intuition is one of your greatest tools. Back yourself and don’t be afraid to explore bold ideas or unique combinations.
Pay attention to the details.
Every element in a space should have purpose and meaning. Thoughtful, well-considered choice of materials, finishes, and layout will elevate any design from good to great.
Always stay curious and inspired.
Design trends change all the time, so continue learning, networking, and exploring new styles and seeking inspiration from as many sources and industry leaders as possible.
Build strong communication skills.
Successful interior design is about understanding the brief (your client's needs), collaborating with builders and suppliers, and being able to clearly articulate your vision.
Be practical as well as creative.
A beautiful space also needs to be functional. This is super important! Balance aesthetics with purpose to create designs that are not only visually stunning but also enhance how people live and move within a space.
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