- Interior decorators begin each job in discussions with the client about preferences and the purpose of a new structure, or changes to an existing one. They discuss types of construction, color schemes, furniture, equipment to be installed and budgetary constraints. They provide advice on space planning, placing of furnishings and equipment and color coordination. The interior decorator presents ideas in drawings, illustrations and computer-generated images, with estimates of material requirements and pricing.
- A two-year associates degree or four-year bachelor's degree is usually the minimum requirement for entry-level interior decorator positions, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Training programs are available at technical schools, colleges, universities and professional design schools. Graduates of the two-year programs usually can be hired as assistants to interior designers. The starting median hourly wage for interior designers nationwide was $10 to $15, as of December 2010, as listed by the PayScale salary survey website. Those with one to four years of experience were earning $12.70 to $19 per hour. In contrast, some interior designers with 10 to 19 years of experience report hourly pay rates over $50.
- The national median salary for interior decorators, as of 2010, was about $57,700, shows CBSalary. The middle 50 percent of those on the earnings scale had wages of $41,300 to $75,000. In Denver, the median salary for interior decorators was $52,200, with the middle 50 percent earning $37,400 to $67,900 in 2010. The median salary for interior decorators statewide in Colorado was a bit higher, at $53,400, and the middle 50 percent range was $38,200 to $69,400.
- Many interior decorators run their own small firms or work on contract. Although job growth should be faster than average, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects keen competition for interior decorating jobs, as many talented people are interested in this career.