People who have an eye for design and the creative instinct to decorate can consider pursuing a career in interior design.
Furniture stores, office buildings, hotels, realtors, and homeowners rely on these individuals to create and implement design plans that suit their customers’ tastes and standards.
Education and Training
An online certification course is one of the best ways to get started.
- Philadelphia
Community College of Philadelphia (Rating: 3.8 out 5)
The Interior Design program is a two-year Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree that equips students with the skills to plan and design functional, aesthetic interior spaces. The 64-credit hour curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including building layouts, color palettes, furniture selection, and lighting schemes. Students also gain hands-on experience in freehand and digital drawing, space planning, and client communication. Graduates are prepared to transfer to a four-year institution or enter the workforce as junior designers or materials librarians.
Benefits of a Course
The goal of the course is to help you achieve certification from the Designer Society of America (DSA).
Most high-end clients prefer to hire individuals who earn an interior design degree or certificate from an accredited institution.
In fact, people in the industry usually reserve the title of “designer” for those with a degree and refer to those without credentials as “decorators.”
How Long Does it Take?
Most vocational certificate programs take less than 1 year to complete, while earning a degree can take 2 to 4 years.
Some students even choose to do an additional one to four years of schooling to get a master’s degree in interior design.
What Classes Do You Take?
During their education, these students learn:
- History of architecture and design
- Color theory
- Space Planning
- Lighting
- Materials, methods, and finishes
- Two- and three-dimensional design
- Interior design business practices
- Safety and building codes
Knowing how to use technology like computer-aided design and drafting programs (CAD) might also be helpful when it comes to making digital models of a design idea and getting approval from a client before going forward with the project.
Salary Range for PA
- $51,902 – Salary.com
- $65,720 – Bureau of Labor Statistics
- $66,513 – Indeed.com
- $69,250 – ZipRecruiter
Below is some regional data from the BLS.
| Area | Per Hour | Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $33.14 | $68,930 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $32.40 | $67,390 |
| Lancaster | $28.73 | $59,770 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $32.54 | $67,680 |
| Pittsburgh | $31.64 | $65,810 |
| Reading | $33.74 | $70,180 |
| Scranton–Wilkes-Barre–Hazleton | $27.74 | $57,690 |
| York-Hanover | $27.99 | $58,230 |
Occupation: Interior Designers (SOC Code271025)
source: data.bls.gov
Professionals who work in higher-end furniture stores or take on private clients through their own design business might be able to negotiate a higher salary of $80k or more.
Pennsylvania License Requirements
To obtain an interior design license in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to complete the Council for Interior Design Qualifications (CIDQ) certification exam.
You must have an interior design diploma, certificate, or degree from an accredited program, up to 1,760 hours of work experience, and at least 60 semester or 90 quarter credit hours on your educational transcript to qualify for the exam.
Interior Design License Exam
Qualifying candidates who want to apply for an interior design license in Pennsylvania must complete all three timed sections of the CIDQ exam. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the test, including the covered content and the length of each exam portion:
Interior Design Fundamentals Exam (IDFX)
Candidates have three hours to complete the 100 scored questions and 25 unscored pilot prompts on the IDFX. This section of the test covers topics like:
- Human Behavior and Design Environment
- Programming and Site Analysis
- Construction Drawing and Specifications
- Building Systems and Construction
Interior Design Professionals Exam (IDPX)
The IDPX also has 25 unscored pilot questions, plus 150 scored prompts. Test takers have four hours to answer these questions about:
- Professional and Business Practices
- Building Systems and Integration
- Codes and Standards
Interior Design Practicum Exam (PRAC)
While the other two parts of the NCIDQ exam are multiple-choice, the PRAC is an interactive exam in which test takers showcase their knowledge of the design process.
Candidates examine three case studies and use provided resources like a project scenario, universal codes, and a design plan to answer a question about designing in:
- Large Commercial Settings
- Small Commercial Settings
- Multi-Family Residential Settings
You need to score at least 500 out of a possible 800 points to pass the certification exam and receive an official license from the NCIDQ. From there, you can begin applying for interior design jobs and use your credentials to make a good impression on potential employers.
You may even be able to earn a higher salary based on your skills and expertise.
Job Description
Interior designers use their understanding of color theory and popular style trends to make indoor spaces beautiful, functional, and safe.
What Do They Do?
Daily tasks for these professionals usually include comparing fabrics, finishes and color swatches to determine which pairings would meet their clients’ specifications. Some designers also consult with furniture builders on the best ways to create certain decor items.
Talking to clients is another important part of this job. Designers meet with homeowners, resort managers, furniture store owners, and real estate agents to discuss which furniture items, color schemes, and decorative accents would work best for their desired look.
Interior designers and clients might also talk about ways to make these spaces accessible to people with disabilities.
What Employers in Pennsylvania Look for in an Interior Designer
Interior design employers in Pennsylvania seek a dynamic blend of creative flair, technical proficiency, and client-focused service. Whether working for architecture firms, furniture companies, or home improvement specialists, designers in PA are expected to translate client visions into functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Employers such as Floss Barber, Stantec, Custom Decorators Inc., and The Brennan Collective emphasize skills in design software, project management, and problem-solving, with opportunities for crossover into related industries such as sales, architecture, and construction.
Key Skills and Qualifications Sought by Pennsylvania Employers
Creative Vision & Technical Expertise
Interior designers in Pennsylvania are expected to bring a creative and detail-oriented approach to their projects. Employers prioritize candidates who can develop unique design concepts while ensuring technical accuracy. Companies such as Floss Barber and Stantec highlight the importance of:
- Space planning and layout design – Creating functional and stylish spaces that maximize efficiency.
- Material and color selection – Demonstrating a keen eye for palettes, textures, and finishes.
- Presentation and rendering skills – Using software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp to present ideas clearly and professionally.
- Attention to detail – Creating accurate background drawings, measuring spaces, and producing technical documentation.
Crossover:
- At The Brennan Collective, interior designers apply their skills to furniture design and workplace solutions, requiring proficiency in AutoCAD and space planning software.
- This crossover demands knowledge of furniture specifications and the ability to integrate design with practical implementation.
Software Proficiency & Technology Skills
Employers expect interior designers to be highly skilled in 2D and 3D design software. Technical proficiency allows designers to create, visualize, and present their concepts effectively. The most commonly required software includes:
- AutoCAD – For creating technical drawings and floor plans.
- Revit and SketchUp – For building information modeling (BIM) and 3D visualization.
- Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign) – For creating finish boards and marketing presentations.
- Microsoft Office Suite – For documentation, client communication, and project management.
Crossover:
- At Stantec, designers work alongside architects and engineers, requiring proficiency in BIM technologies to produce 3D models of building interiors.
- This crossover demands fluency in collaborative design platforms and adaptability to architectural standards.
Project Management & Client Collaboration
Pennsylvania employers value interior designers who can manage multiple projects simultaneously and collaborate effectively with clients, contractors, and team members. Companies like Custom Decorators Inc. and The Brennan Collective expect designers to:
- Oversee the entire design process, from conceptualization to installation.
- Work collaboratively with sales and installation teams to meet client expectations.
- Handle project timelines, budgets, and deliverables efficiently.
- Present design solutions clearly and confidently to clients.
Crossover:
- At Custom Decorators Inc., interior designers double as in-home sales consultants, providing design expertise while promoting and selling custom window treatments.
- This crossover blends design aesthetics with sales acumen, making communication and presentation skills essential.
Customer Service & Sales Skills
Many Pennsylvania employers, especially in the home improvement and retail sectors, look for designers who combine creative skills with sales expertise. This is particularly evident at Custom Decorators Inc., where designers are expected to:
- Provide in-home consultations and recommend design solutions.
- Demonstrate strong interpersonal and sales skills.
- Guide customers through product selection and installation.
Crossover:
- At Custom Decorators, interior designers operate in both design and sales roles, interacting directly with clients and promoting products like blinds, shades, and drapery.
- This requires the ability to anticipate customer needs and tailor design recommendations accordingly.
Education, Certification & Professional Development
Employers in Pennsylvania generally require a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or Architecture from an accredited program. Preferred certifications include:
- NCIDQ certification – Highly valued for commercial design roles, especially at Floss Barber and Stantec.
- LEED accreditation – Increasingly sought after in firms prioritizing sustainable design.
- Continuing education – Employers like Floss Barber encourage ongoing career development and technical skill enhancement.
Company-Specific Expectations and Benefits
1. Floss Barber (Philadelphia, PA)
Floss Barber is a boutique interior design firm specializing in hospitality, residential, and commercial interiors. They expect their designers to:
- Demonstrate creativity, enthusiasm, and passion.
- Work as part of a collaborative team environment.
- Create finish boards and update drawings with accuracy.
- Travel for site visits and client meetings.
Skills Sought:
- AutoCAD, Photoshop, InDesign, and SketchUp proficiency.
- Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
- Ability to meet deadlines effectively.
Crossover:
- Interior designers at Floss Barber frequently work alongside construction teams, requiring a solid understanding of building codes and design compliance.
2. Stantec (Philadelphia, PA)
Stantec is a multidisciplinary design firm with a focus on sustainability and integrated design. Their interior designers:
- Collaborate with architects and engineers.
- Utilize Revit and BIM technologies for design development.
- Handle space planning, material selection, and construction documentation.
- Participate in conceptualization and visualization of projects.
Skills Sought:
- Proficiency in Revit, Enscape, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design.
- Ability to collaborate with diverse teams and meet client needs.
Crossover:
- Stantec’s interior designers frequently engage with sustainability specialists, requiring knowledge of eco-friendly materials and LEED standards.
3. Custom Decorators Inc. (Pittsburgh, PA)
Custom Decorators specializes in window treatments and offers in-home design consultations. Their designers:
- Provide expert guidance on blinds, shades, shutters, and drapery.
- Combine design and sales expertise.
- Work with client services and installation teams.
- Earn commission-based pay with flexible scheduling.
Skills Sought:
- Sales and customer service experience.
- Strong communication and active listening skills.
- Ability to provide tailored design solutions in real time.
Crossover:
- Designers at Custom Decorators bridge the gap between interior design and home improvement sales, making sales experience highly valuable.
4. The Brennan Collective (West Chester, PA)
The Brennan Collective specializes in furniture solutions and commercial interiors. Their designers:
- Create and refine space plans and layouts.
- Use AutoCAD and design software to produce accurate specifications.
- Collaborate with sales and installation teams.
- Occasionally travel outside the tri-state area for client projects.
Skills Sought:
- Proficiency in AutoCAD and space planning software.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
Crossover:
- Brennan designers work closely with furniture manufacturers and sales teams, requiring product knowledge and sales communication skills.
Industry Crossovers and Emerging Trends in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s interior design industry is increasingly intersecting with adjacent fields, including:
- Furniture Sales and Retail: Designers are collaborating with furniture companies, creating tailored solutions for commercial clients.
- Architecture and Engineering: Firms like Stantec involve interior designers in BIM modeling and sustainable building practices.
- Home Improvement and Remodeling: In-home sales and design consultations are growing, requiring designers to develop sales and client-service skills.
- Sustainability: With growing emphasis on eco-conscious design, familiarity with LEED standards is becoming a sought-after skill.
Conclusion
Employers in Pennsylvania value interior designers who possess a blend of creativity, technical expertise, and client-centered service skills. Whether working at Stantec in sustainable architecture or Custom Decorators Inc. in in-home sales, designers are expected to adapt to diverse projects and collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams. The growing demand for sales-savvy designers, technology skills, and sustainable practices makes PA an exciting market for interior design professionals.