Consultant, paint

What does a color consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A color consultant works by providing advice and guidance on color schemes and color choices in various environments, such as homes, public spaces, or commercial premises. The tasks often include analyzing needs, creating color concepts, presenting color proposals, and ensuring that the color schemes harmonize with other interior design and architecture. The role also involves collaborating with other professionals, such as interior designers, architects, and project managers, to achieve the best possible results. The work environment is varied and can include everything from office work and digital presentations to site visits and practical testing of color samples in different lighting conditions.

Salary development over time

The salary for a color consultant has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,300 SEK, 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% over the period. This positive trend can be linked to an increasing demand for color and interior design expertise in a more design-conscious society, as well as more companies and individuals seeking professional help to create attractive and sustainable environments. Digitalization and new technical tools have also contributed to broadening skill requirements, which may be reflected in salary development.

Color consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 45,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 247 SEK
• Women: 40 200 SEK/month
• Men: 44,400 SEK/month
• Women earn: 91% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a color consultant often involves education in interior design, decoration, or related fields, supplemented with courses in color theory and material knowledge. Practical experience, such as internships or trainee positions, is highly valued, and many choose to further their education in color psychology, lighting, and project management. Industry-specific certifications or self-study can also enhance competitiveness in the job market.

• Education: Post-secondary programs in interior design or related fields (1–3 years)
• Courses/certifications: Color theory, material knowledge, color psychology
• Internships: Strongly recommended for work experience
• Prerequisites: Creativity and basic understanding of color and form
• Online education: Possible to supplement with digital courses

Common benefits and compensations

Color consultants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote work. Other common compensations include occupational pensions, professional development, and insurance. In some cases, bonus schemes linked to project outcomes are also available.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of color consulting varies and is influenced by economic conditions, region, and project volume in the construction and interior design sectors. Many assignments are project-based and require a combination of creativity and business acumen. One of the main challenges is staying updated on new trends, techniques, and materials, while sustainability and environmental requirements are becoming increasingly important. As the profession includes several different roles, it can be difficult to distinguish oneself in the job market without specialized skills or a strong network.

Tips for aspiring color consultants

To succeed as a color consultant, it is beneficial to combine strong creativity with a structured working approach and the ability to listen to clients’ needs. Being curious and keeping up with color trends and new materials is a key success factor. Building a network within the industry is also valuable, as many assignments are obtained through contacts. A communicative and pedagogical consultant is more likely to build trust and clearly communicate color proposals. Finally, patience and flexibility are essential, as assignments often involve rapid changes and high demands for problem-solving.

Key facts about a color consultant

• Education level: Post-secondary (1–3 years, often in interior design/related fields)
• Work environment: Varied – office, site visits, and digital work
• Demand: 620 available jobs within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Color theory, color psychology, and project management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a color consultant can develop into more specialized roles, such as a color coordinator in larger projects, interior consultant with a focus on colors, or project manager in design. Some choose to start their own consultancy or further their education in related areas such as lighting design or sustainable interior design. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but the broad group of interior designers, decorators, and scenographers shows a certain demand with 620 available jobs. Future prospects are influenced by societal trends around sustainability, design, and increased focus on attractive environments, indicating that the skill set will continue to be in demand.

Frequently asked questions about a color consultant

• What does a color consultant earn?
  - A color consultant has an average salary of 41 100 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 44,400 SEK, while women have an average salary of 40 200 SEK, meaning women earn 91% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is required to become a color consultant?
  - Post-secondary education in interior design, decoration, or color theory is recommended, along with practical experience and a good sense of color and form.
• What is the job market like for color consultants?
  - There are 620 available jobs within the professions of interior designers, decorators, and scenographers, but the future outlook is uncertain due to limited data.
• What are the tasks of a color consultant?
  - Tasks include advising on color schemes, developing color concepts, client meetings, and collaboration with other design and construction professionals.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a color consultant?
  - The highest salary is 45,600 SEK and the lowest 36,200 SEK per month, depending on experience, sector, and education.