Interior and decor builders

What does an interior and decorative builder do? – Tasks and work environment

An interior and decorative builder works with creating, constructing, and installing interior solutions and decorative elements for various environments. Tasks often include manufacturing and installing custom furniture, retail interiors, stage design for theater or events, and decorative carpentry for public and private settings. The profession requires high precision, an eye for detail, and the ability to work independently and in teams. The work environment varies between workshops, construction sites, and on-site completion at customer locations, which can involve physically demanding days and sometimes work at inconvenient hours or under time pressure.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, interior and decorative builders have experienced fluctuating salary development. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 SEK per month. The following year, the salary increased to 33 000 SEK, representing an approximate 8% increase. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary slightly decreased to 32 300 SEK per month, a decline of about 2%. This trend reflects some uncertainty in the job market and may be influenced by factors such as competition within the profession, demand for specialized skills, and changing project volumes. Generally, salaries in the field have been stable but are affected by economic conditions and regional differences.

Interior and decorative builder salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 300 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Data not available
• Hourly wage: 194 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Only salary for men available (32 300 SEK); data for women is missing
• Regional differences: Data not specified, but variation may occur depending on the labor market and demand

Education and qualifications

To work as an interior and decorative builder, a high school vocational education in fine carpentry, furniture carpentry, or interior carpentry is usually required. Combined education and practical experience are often crucial for success in the profession. Further training, specialized courses, and certifications can improve employment prospects and broaden skills in areas such as material science, CAD drawing, or decorative painting.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, specialization in fine carpentry (3 years)
• Vocational college: Specialized training in interior carpentry (1–2 years)
• Internships: Apprenticeships and practical periods are common during training
• Courses and certifications: Examples include CAD, material knowledge, surface treatment
• Prerequisites: Interest in craftsmanship, precision, and some technical understanding

Common benefits and compensations

Interior and decorative builders are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, overtime pay, and wellness allowances. Other common compensations may include per diems for work in other locations, work clothing, and sometimes access to further training or specialized tools through the employer.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of interior and decorative builders is considered relatively high, with a national surplus of labor according to the Swedish Employment Service forecast. Despite this, opportunities exist for individuals with niche skills or experience in specialized projects. Challenges include sometimes insecure employment forms, varying workloads, and the need for flexibility in different projects. Technical knowledge and the ability to use new tools and materials are crucial for remaining competitive. Additionally, the availability of assignments can vary depending on economic conditions and regional demand.

Tips for those who want to become an interior and decorative builder

To succeed as an interior and decorative builder, it is beneficial to combine a genuine interest in form and function with practical craftsmanship. Creativity is an important trait, especially when unique solutions are requested by clients and project managers. Precision and patience are needed to handle detailed work and ensure high quality in the finished product. Building a strong network within the industry is recommended, as many assignments are obtained through personal contacts. Being flexible and open to new materials and techniques facilitates adaptation to different project requirements. Teamwork skills are also essential, as the work often involves collaboration with other trades. Finally, a willingness to continually develop and learn new skills helps maintain attractiveness in the job market.

Key facts about interior and decorative builders

• Education level: High school vocational training or vocational college
• Work environment: Workshop, construction site, and customer locations
• Work form: Employee or self-employed, often project-based
• Demand: Limited opportunities nationwide
• Special skills: Fine carpentry, material knowledge, and decorative work

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an interior and decorative builder can develop into more specialized roles, such as project leader for larger interior projects or as an independent entrepreneur in the industry. Some choose to further their education in design, CAD, or leadership to broaden career opportunities. The Swedish Employment Service assesses that job opportunities within the profession are limited nationwide and that demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Nevertheless, current statistics show that there are 341 job openings in the field, indicating that opportunities still exist for those with the right skills and experience.

Frequently asked questions about interior and decorative builders

• What does an interior and decorative builder earn?
  - The average salary is 32 300 SEK per month according to the latest statistics.
• What is the hourly wage for an interior and decorative builder?
  - The average hourly wage is 194 SEK.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Salary data for men exists (32 300 SEK), but specific statistics for women are missing.
• What education is required to become an interior and decorative builder?
  - High school vocational training in fine carpentry or equivalent is most common, sometimes supplemented with further education or courses.
• What is the job market like for interior and decorative builders?
  - Opportunities are considered limited nationwide with a surplus of labor, but job openings exist for those with the right skills.
• What work environments do interior and decorative builders work in?
  - The work environment varies between workshops, construction sites, and customer locations.