This role has a high level of AI exposure. While some human skills are required, many tasks could be automated or replaced by new technology.
Explore all careersA Commercial Interior Designer creates and develops interior spaces for businesses, requiring design skills, project management, and industry knowledge.
Get qualified to work as a Commercial Interior Designer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
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The best way to become a Commercial Interior Designer in Australia is with a Bachelor of Interior Design (Commercial) but there are other pathways. VET qualifications such as the Certificate IV in Interior Decorating, Diploma of Interior Design, or Advanced Diploma of Interior Design are also great options. As your career progresses, consider post-graduate qualifications to widen your skillset: Graduate Diploma in Design, Master of Interior Architecture or Master of Interior Design (spatial Design).
The average weekly earnings for Interior Designers in Australia is currently $1,650 per week ($85,800 annually). These are median figures for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. Commercial Interior Designers usually earn much higher salaries.Expand your industry profile and client base by joining a professional organisation such as the Design Institute of Australia (DIA).
There are approximately 17,300 Interior Designers employed in Australia right now, some of these specialise in commercial projects. Interior design generally is a growth occupation with an expected increase of 19.1% in job opportunities over the next 3-5 years. Commercial Interior Designers are often self-employed consultants but there are many direct employment opportunities with commercial design houses, construction companies, and architectural firms.
Source: Jobs and Skills Australia, Labour Market Insights 2024
Commercial Interior Designers conceptualise, design, and develop the interior spaces of commercial buildings such as shops, office complexes, hotels, museums, hospitals and nursing homes, public amenities, and more. They use industry-standard technologies (e.g. AutoCAD) and spatial tools to present their design ideas, and then work closely with construction teams to create commercial interiors that are innovative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
As a Commercial Interior Designer you could be reviewing a project briefing with a corporate client, discussing spatial considerations with the project team, costing out a design concept for a tender application, planning colours and furnishings that synergise with the client’s corporate branding, overseeing the purchase of furniture and decorative accessories with a decorator, or managing a construction problem with a team of tradespeople.
To be successful in this role you’ll need to be up-to-date with the latest trends in commercial design aesthetics and spatial planning technologies. You should also have well-developed skillsets in project management, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication.