Interior designer

What does an interior designer do? – Tasks and work environment

An interior designer works to create functional, aesthetic, and personalized environments in private homes, public spaces, and commercial premises. Tasks include planning room layouts, selecting materials and colors, designing furniture, lighting solutions, and decorative details. The work often involves close dialogue with clients, architects, and suppliers to ensure that projects meet both practical and creative requirements. The work environment varies between office work, site visits, and sometimes travel, and can include both independent assignments and collaboration within larger project teams.

Salary development over time

The salary for an interior designer has shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,300 SEK per month, which increased to 39100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average monthly salary has reached 41 100 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.3% during this period. This development reflects a growing interest in design and interior decoration, with increased demand for qualified interior designers, especially in commercial projects and the public sector. Additionally, a rising awareness of sustainability and environmental issues has contributed to broadening the profession, positively influencing salary development. Nevertheless, variations still exist depending on experience, education, and employer.

Interior designer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,200 SEK/month (female, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 45,600 SEK/month (male, private employee, unspecified education)
• Hourly rate (average): 247 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 91% of what men do (women: 40 200 SEK, men: 44,400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but variations occur depending on the labor market and demand.

Education and qualifications

To work as an interior designer, a qualification in interior architecture, design, or related fields is usually required. Both university degrees and vocational college programs are common, often including internships to strengthen professional skills. Creativity, technical understanding, and good communication skills are central qualities, and many supplement their formal education with courses in CAD drawing, color theory, or project management.

• Formal degree: University education (3 years) or vocational college (2–3 years)
• Additional courses: CAD, 3D visualization, color theory, material science
• Internships: Common during studies or as trainees
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with an artistic or technical focus
• Further education: Possible via online courses and specialized certifications

Common benefits and compensations

Interior designers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Some employers also provide further training, occupational pensions, and performance-based bonuses. Travel and participation in industry fairs may occur, especially for those working on larger or international projects.

Competition and challenges

The competition within interior design is relatively high, especially in metropolitan areas where many educated professionals seek employment. A strong visual expression, technical skills, and the ability to interpret clients’ needs are essential to stand out. Rapidly changing trends and increased digitalization demand continuous professional development and adaptability. Additionally, pricing for services is often under pressure, particularly for freelancers or recent graduates, making it challenging to establish oneself. Building a network and a strong portfolio are often crucial for success.

Tips for those aspiring to become an interior designer

To succeed as an interior designer, it’s good to combine creativity with structured problem-solving and a genuine interest in people. Developing a good sense of color, form, and material choices can be decisive, while analytical skills help understand and meet clients’ needs professionally. Strong communication skills facilitate collaboration with clients and suppliers, and an eye for detail ensures high quality in every project. Being flexible and open to new technical tools, such as 3D visualization, is also important to stay relevant. Finally, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit are valuable qualities, especially for those aiming to build a long-term career in the field.

Key facts about interior designers

• Educational level: University or vocational college education (2–3 years)
• Work form: Consultant, employee, or self-employed
• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Typical work environment: Office, homes, and site visits
• Number of job openings in the field: 620

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many interior designers have the opportunity to take on more advanced projects, work as project managers, or start their own businesses. Specialization within areas such as public environments, commercial spaces, or sustainable design is common. The forecasts from the Employment Service do not provide a clear outlook due to limited statistics, but the broad field “Interior designers, decorators, and set designers” recently had 620 job openings. Demand is influenced by economic cycles, the development of the construction industry, and trends in sustainability and digitalization. For those with technical skills and business acumen, there are good opportunities to develop and take on new roles within the design industry.

Frequently asked questions about interior designers

• What is the average salary of an interior designer?
  - An interior designer has an average monthly salary of 41 100 SEK.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for an interior designer?
  - The lowest salary is 36,200 SEK and the highest is 45,600 SEK per month.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 91% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become an interior designer?
  - Usually, a university or vocational college education in design or interior architecture is required.
• What is the job market like for interior designers?
  - There are 620 job openings in the field, but competition is high and future prospects are uncertain.
• Do interior designers often work as freelancers?
  - Yes, many choose to work freelance or start their own business.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Creativity, responsiveness, technical understanding, and entrepreneurial spirit are central qualities.