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Job outlook for interior design directors in the United States
Are interior design director jobs in demand?
Interior design director job and salary trends over time
Interior design director jobs over time
Interior design director job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 250 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 239 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 245 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 230 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 226 | 0.00% |
Average interior design director salary over time
Interior design director salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $88,458 | $42.53 | +1.8% |
| 2024 | $86,877 | $41.77 | +5.0% |
| 2023 | $82,737 | $39.78 | +3.6% |
| 2022 | $79,838 | $38.38 | +3.4% |
| 2021 | $77,218 | $37.12 | +2.0% |
Interior design director jobs by state
Most common states for interior design directors
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 228 | 26% |
| 2 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 651 | 21% |
| 3 | Arkansas | 3,004,279 | 531 | 18% |
| 4 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 670 | 14% |
| 5 | Oklahoma | 3,930,864 | 516 | 13% |
| 6 | Louisiana | 4,684,333 | 544 | 12% |
| 7 | Mississippi | 2,984,100 | 343 | 11% |
| 8 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 75 | 11% |
| 9 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 348 | 8% |
| 10 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 492 | 7% |
| 11 | Vermont | 623,657 | 41 | 7% |
| 12 | California | 39,536,653 | 2,314 | 6% |
| 13 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 418 | 6% |
| 14 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 76 | 6% |
| 15 | Delaware | 961,939 | 53 | 6% |
| 16 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 49 | 6% |
| 17 | Alaska | 739,795 | 43 | 6% |
| 18 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 34 | 6% |
| 19 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 326 | 5% |
| 20 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 170 | 5% |
Interior Design Director job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of interior design director experts
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Kansas State University
University of North Texas
Florida International University
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
Boston Architectural College
Kansas State University
IIDA
Arianne Bellizaire Interiors
Fashion Institute of Technology, SUNY
University of Minnesota
SagreraBrazil Design, Inc.
National Kitchen & Bath Association
Maryville University
St. Norbert College
Fordham University
Stephen F. Austin State University
What Interior Design Director skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Georges Fares: Maximizing salary potential in interior design involves a combination of strategic actions and ongoing professional development. To start, focusing on niche areas within interior design that are currently in high demand, such as sustainable design, healthcare design, or incorporating advanced technology, can significantly enhance your market value. These specialized skills set you apart from competitors and allow you to command higher fees for your expertise. Pursuing additional certifications and advanced degrees can further improve your qualifications and deepen your knowledge in these specialized areas. For example, obtaining LEED certification for sustainable design or a master's degree in healthcare design can make you more attractive to employers looking for specific skill sets. Networking is another critical component of maximizing salary potential. Establishing connections with industry professionals, mentors, and potential employers can lead to job opportunities with competitive salaries. Attending industry conferences, participating in professional organizations, and engaging in online communities are effective ways to build and maintain a robust professional network. A well-organized portfolio is essential in showcasing your best work, demonstrating your problem-solving skills, creativity, and ability to meet clients' needs, and including case studies that highlight improvements in functionality, sustainability, or user experience. Developing soft skills such as strong communication, negotiation, and leadership is also crucial, as they help articulate your design vision, secure better project terms and salaries, and position you for higher-compensation managerial roles. Overall, these strategies can help new graduates navigate the early stages of their careers and position themselves for financial and professional growth in the interior design field. By continuously improving your skills, expanding your network, and showcasing your work effectively, you can enhance your professional reputation and salary prospects.
What will help Interior Design Directors increase their earning potential?
Georges Fares: Starting a career in interior design can be both exciting and challenging. My advice is to stay curious and keep learning because the field of interior design is ever-evolving. Staying updated with the latest trends, materials, and technologies is crucial. Networking actively is also essential. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with peers and mentors, as these connections can open doors to opportunities and collaborations. Seek diverse experiences by gaining exposure to different types of projects and environments, whether residential, commercial, or hospitality. This will make you a more versatile designer. Lastly, stay resilient. The design field can be competitive and demanding, but by continuously honing your skills and maintaining a positive attitude, you can navigate through challenges successfully.
What Interior Design Director skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Cameron John M.F.A.: Interior Architecture and Design offers an opportunity to help clients - real people - realize their vision. Whether it is a single-family home, a corporate office, or a hospital - the spaces designed are real. These spaces have tangible effect on the well-being, health, and happiness of others. The challenges of any field of design - architecture or otherwise - are that it is often a pursuit of passion. Design work often involves late nights and long hours to reach submittal deadlines and manage the complexities of any project. The volume of information you need to coordinate and manage requires a high level of organization and focus. Attention to detail is incredibly important. Design work is not as highly compensated as other professional pursuits for the amount of expertise and work that goes into realizing a project.
What will help Interior Design Directors increase their earning potential?
Cameron John M.F.A.: People spend 90% of their time inside. Interior Architecture and Design is a growing profession as more and more people take interest in the design of their spaces. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this impact as people were forced to occupy their spaces and physically recognize how their space impacts their health - both mentally and physically. Additionally, current economic pressures have made it more appealing for companies to renovate their current space rather than build an entirely new structure.
Vibhavari Jani
Associate ProfessorKansas State University
Interior Architecture and Industrial Design
What soft skills should all Interior Design Directors possess?
Vibhavari Jani: Critical thinking, interpersonal communication, collaboration, and ability to lead.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Interior Design Directors?
Vibhavari Jani: Ability to master various software: Revit, Rhyno, Sketchup, 3D rendering software (Enscape and Lunion), BIM.
Bill Morgan
Coordinator, Undergraduate Program — Interior Design, Lecturer, Interior DesignUniversity of North Texas
Department of Design
What skills stand out on Interior Design Director resumes?
Bill Morgan: -Vision
-Teamwork
-Communication
What hard/technical skills are most important for Interior Design Directors?
Bill Morgan: -Drawing Proficiency (drawing of all types, includes 3D visualization)
-Technical Proficiency (detailing)
-Project Management
What skills will help Interior Design Directors earn the most?
Bill Morgan: -Client Relations
-Leadership
-Adaptability
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Interior Design Director job market given the pandemic?
Katie Rothfield: The post-COVID-19 job market for interior architecture/design majors largely mirrors what we are seeing in each respective industry: while some trades, such as hospitality and cruise ship, are seeing a downturn or outright freeze in work, other sectors, such as law, were unaffected by the pandemic and are still operating and hiring at normal speed. Likewise, just as there is a great demand for healthcare workers, demand is also high for interior designers with strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of innovative sustainable design practices, building systems, technology, and psychology/theory who can address issues related to indoor air quality, viral transmission on surfaces, and social distancing.
In addition, corporations will need interior designers to study and respond to new remote and in-person work patterns and rethink the future design of the office, and with so many people spending countless hours at home, there is increased interest and demand in the residential design market.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Interior Design Directors to find work opportunities?
Katie Rothfield: Due to population density, cities always have greater opportunities for interior design graduates. Some of the top interior design firms in the United States are located in New York City, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Washington D.C.. Being a service profession, demand for interior design ebbs and flows with the economy. Therefore, for increased employment security, job seekers should look for design companies with a diverse portfolio of clients, as they are better equipped to weather economic hardships that may more have a more drastic effect on one client's industry over another.
Emily McLaughlin
Interior Design Technology Program Director and Associate Clinical ProfessorIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
School of Engineering and Technology
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Interior Design Director job market given the pandemic?
Emily McLaughlin: Based on recent information which I have seen released from professional organizations in my discipline, I believe that we can expect more employers seeking students who retain science-based knowledge relative to the design of our built environments. Those who know how to research proven solutions for increased productivity, health, safety, or wellness in spaces such as offices, hotels, hospitals, and schools will be in high demand.
In addition, those with advanced technology skills who can use software to communicate design ideas both in person as well as virtually will be important, and graduates who are trained to understand a global market as it relates to business commerce will be in a position to help companies navigate a new norm. I also believe that the market will likely see a new focus on residential home design as our workforce has shifted and now requires ergonomic solutions and dedicated work spaces in the places that we live due to an increase in agile employment situations. In summation, those who have experience in evidence-based practice will be in high demand as employers seek to hire degree holders who retain fresh and creative ideas for solving new problems.
What skills stand out on Interior Design Director resumes?
Emily McLaughlin: Those students who have participated in internships or coops to gain a practical understanding of the modern problems our professionals are facing with regards to health and wellness in the built environment will be in high demand. In addition, the passing of examinations which prove competency in these areas, such as becoming WELL AP or LEED AP certifiied, will set those individuals apart from others who have not mastered such topics. Multidiciplinary knowledge which showcases an understanding of the overlaps that exist between the fields of Engineering, Architecture, Construction, and Interior Design are important, and of course strong communication skills both in oral and written communication are useful to showcase as well.
Barbara Anderson
Professor and HeadKansas State University
Department of Interior Design and Fashion Studies
How do you envision technology impacting Interior Design Directors in the next 5 years?
Barbara Anderson: The integration of technology in buildings and the use of technology to design and communication design to clients and users will continue to accelerate in the next five years. I expect the technology integrated into buildings to focus on communications, health and well-being, and Net Zero and water efficiency with the goal of resilience/sustainability.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Interior Design Director job market given the pandemic?
Monae Redmond: Never stop learning. This is the biggest piece of advice IIDA Director of Member Services Monae Redmond has to give, and it's one she lives by. Use downtime to devote to professional growth - join community groups, read and research industry articles. If there is a certain specialty area you are interested in, she recommends finding a class to dive into it further or scheduling a Zoom coffee with a colleague to pick their brain. Redmond especially recommends joining an association, like IIDA, where resources to promote professional growth, like CEUs and networking events, are constantly available.
Find a mentor. You are never too young or old to have a mentor, says Redmond. It's very important to speak to someone who has experience in your industry who can help guide you through obstacles and offer advice (like this!)
Your personal brand will take you far. Invest in free social media platforms like LinkedIn. Continuously update your profile - if you received a certificate or have worked on a new skill, put those on your page. Maximize your expertise by showcasing your coursework from school. And, remember to engage with the online community - share content that falls in line with your industry, make meaningful connections (maybe you both went to the same school, or you're both members of an association, make note of this in your outreach). Lastly, don't be afraid to brag about yourself, think about your accomplishments, and share what's relevant and unique to you. Put yourself out there!
What experience really stands out on Interior Design Director resumes?
Arianne Bellizaire: When I look at the resume of a potential employee, I'm looking for relevant work experience, time spent with a particular company or in a particular position, and any transferable skills that would be an asset to our team.
What Interior Design Director skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Arianne Bellizaire: I would love to see a graduate use this pandemic's unprecedented nature and a resulting gap year to get up-to-speed on how to create a virtual workspace. It would be wonderful to see them get acquainted with e-conference apps like Zoom and software suites like Microsoft Teams to get comfortable with the possibility of having to work virtually more often than not.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Interior Design Directors in the next 3-5 years?
Arianne Bellizaire: CAD drawings and rendering programs will continue to be a staple in our industry, but the incorporation of artificial intelligence in homes and 3D simulation during client presentations will be the next wave of technological advances in our industry.
Elizabeth Von Lehe
Allied ASID, Director-at-Large, ASID National Board of Directors and Design & Brand Strategy Principal, HDRASID
What experience really stands out on Interior Design Director resumes?
Elizabeth Von Lehe: In design, resumes are a support document that is secondary to the portfolio or work samples - which show skills and aesthetic points of view. If the caliber of the work is a fit, the resume can then tell a story about the individual - understanding their path and their view of the world. When reviewing a resume, I'm looking briefly at work history and timeline, but then quickly looking for grit. If a resume shows someone not only working but also serving within a nonprofit - or working a job to put themselves through school - that tells me more about the kind of person and designer than any prestigious position could.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Interior Design Directors in the next 3-5 years?
Elizabeth Von Lehe: Specific technology is changing by the month, but having fluency in a variety of computer programs is becoming more important. This includes knowing the latest BIM platforms, but also the basics like AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite. A variety of fluency and the ability to learn is now the most important aspect of technology in our field and will continue to increase as project teams evolve. As we work on larger teams with multiple companies collaborating, we often have to jump between software platforms and standards. In our field, in the coming years, the rarest skill that is emerging is fluency with older methods - hand illustration and sketching - which can be vital on the job site when other technologies aren't at our fingertips. The merging of old tech and new is becoming more apparent as well - with designers hand sketching on pads within the mobile version of CAD or within illustration apps like ProCreate.
Carmita Sanchez-Fong
Professor and ChairpersonFashion Institute of Technology, SUNY
Interior Design Department
How do you envision technology impacting Interior Design Directors in the next 5 years?
Carmita Sanchez-Fong: Interior design is a lifestyle. Our industry's challenge is going to be humanizing technology, making it seamless, part of the story and the experience. From digital connectivity to greater adoption of automation, increased public health awareness, cashless behaviors, the proliferation of on-demand apps, facial and speech recognition, touchless technology, grab-and-do behaviors, memorable virtual experiences, immersive more personal environments, etc. all will affect our industry, in one way or another. Technology is the tool that is making the new ordinary possible.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Interior Design Directors to find work opportunities?
Carmita Sanchez-Fong: Wherever there are people, there is a need for interior design innovation. Our students are all over the United States and abroad. Keep in mind that each state and city has a vastly different population size, infrastructure, income levels, behaviors, trends, and even level of sophistication. Do your research. Do not pick the place that pays you the most. Pick a location outside of your comfort zone that will challenge your skills and support your growth as a person and designer.
What Interior Design Director skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tasoulla Hadjiyanni Ph.D.: Centering themselves - when "Cancel Culture" and the fear of making a mistake are over-powering decision-making processes, graduates need to be able to examine their reactions to tension and be more aware of their values priorities. With such awareness, they can move toward "Consider Culture," forming impactful coalitions, mediating conflict, and being open to dialogues. With a stronger sense of self, they can embrace humility and a willingness to unlearn exclusionary practices-both on personal and collective levels. They can do that through mindfulness practice, reading the stories of people they know little about, and engaging with difference.
How do you envision technology impacting Interior Design Directors in the next 5 years?
George Brazil: Technology is only going to make what we do a lot easier and more streamlined. The fact that we learned we can work remotely, still be efficient if we plan it properly, and still service our clients has made our job more efficient.
Of course there are all the fancy rendering software programs out there that help us convey our intent and tell a story to our client. Most design programs teach some of these programs, yet it is more important now that graduates have a strong knowledge of both 2D and 3D programs as well as rendering solutions.
What general advice would you give to an Interior Design Director?
Bill Darcy: This year has thrown curveballs at us like never before, and the job market is just one of the areas that has been upended," said Bill Darcy, NKBA CEO. "One thing the pandemic has proven is that our homes are multitasking more than ever - like home office, home school, gym, spa - and our kitchens are getting quite a workout, as the family's central hub and gathering space. People are anxious to remodel, so they may customize their spaces to accommodate these new needs. This is one sector where business is robust, and many of our NKBA designer and remodeler members can't keep up with the volume of work. So, entering the workforce in a design or remodeling capacity holds a great deal of promise. Work and jobs are plentiful - and our research shows that design, construction and remodeling activity is likely to continue well into next year and beyond. Of course, no one can predict the course the pandemic might take or other factors might affect the economy, but I would suggest that this is an excellent time to explore internships and apprenticeships in the skilled trades, because these professional pathways, as well as kitchen, bath and interior design, are likely to yield solid opportunities for the foreseeable future.
Michael Keller
Assistant Professor of Interior DesignMaryville University
Design and Visual Arts Department
How do you envision technology impacting Interior Design Directors in the next 5 years?
Michael Keller: Remote working will change the type of project and the interior spaces, at least in the short term. There will be new design problems/opportunities because of the remote work trend. As for technology used in the profession, virtual reality/gaming software seems to be becoming a more effective way to design and communicate design and impact designers. I imagine user metrics (lighting, power, water use, asset tagging, etc.) will continue developing to aid designers in optimizing interior space and systems.
What type of skills will young Interior Design Directors need?
Brian Pirman: For someone who is contemplating a career in graphic design, I recommend several things. One would be to develop a portfolio that shows a diverse skill-set. This may include expertise in design and layout, photography, illustration, typography as well as animation and video. If you have a more varied skill set, you are more likely to either gain employment or able to do freelance work. The other thing is internships, internships, internships. Having a portfolio of applied work (versus school projects), as long as it's good, will separate you from the competition.
Stephan Apicella-Hitchcock
Clinical Associate ProfessorFordham University
Department of Theatre and Visual Art
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Interior Design Directors?
Stephan Apicella-Hitchcock: Graduates will undoubtedly experience the impact of the coronavirus for years to come. A number of our alumni have traditionally worked within the art and museum industries, which have been functioning in a limited capacity since the start of the pandemic. Those venues are starting to open up once again; however, there is no guarantee that they will return to the same operating and staffing levels as before.
Nathaniel Walker
Assistant ProfessorStephen F. Austin State University
Human Sciences Department
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Interior Design Directors?
Nathaniel Walker: The COVID-19 pandemic will have a short- and long-term effect on 2020 interior design graduates. In the short-term, the impact will affect their senior year educational experiences, in and out of the classroom (face-to-face and virtual). For some students, COVID has been overwhelming as they attempt to adjust to new societal and educational norms. The pandemic will influence whether a college or university decides to hold face-to-face or virtual graduation ceremonies in December 2020 and May 2021. In the long-term, as graduates begin to reflect on their educational experience during this outbreak, their encounter might not be as memorable.