Interior designer

Interior designers must be creative problem-solvers with good communication skills, able to draw (most typically with a computer-aided drafting or building-modeling program such as AutoCAD or Revit), read and edit construction documents. They also must be aware of building codes, inspection regulations, and other considerations, such as accessibility and fire-safety standards; and be able to collaborate effectively with other trades, such as architect, structural engineer, contractor, MEP engineer, lighting designer, acoustical engineer, and product vendors. Note that an interior designer, which most often works in the commercial field, is not the same profession as that of an interior decorator, which most often works in the residential field.

Interior designers play a significant role in green buildings through their designs that create efficient use of space, improve indoor environmental quality, and reduce the use of harmful materials. Their choices of materials, furniture, lighting, patterns, texture, and colors, as well as the floor plan layout and custom-casework designs, can reduce waste and increase health, efficiency, enjoyment, and productivity in the space.