Interior designers and interior decorators conceptualize and produce aesthetic, functional and safe designs for interior spaces in residential, commercial, cultural, institutional and industrial buildings. They are employed by architectural and interior design firms, retail establishments, construction companies, hospitals, airlines, hotel and restaurant chains, and other establishments, or they may be self-employed.(National Occupational Classification) 

Interior designers are concerned with general and detailed planning, spatial arrangements, health and safety issues, detailing, constructability and technical considerations (for example, lighting and acoustics) as well as the aesthetics of a space. They are more involved with technical considerations than interior decorators are. Decorators focus on the ornamental and moveable aspects of interiors (colour, furniture, rugs, drapery) and fixed details (for example, moldings) that easily can be added to an existing space. (alis)

This profile is focused on Interior Designers. To learn about Interior Decorators and other related occupations, please select the links to the right.

Occupational profile

Education

The University of Manitoba offers a bachelor's degree in Environmental Design (option/stream in Interior Environments), as well as a fully accredited Master's degree in Interior Design.

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Exploring Other Education Options

Information for foreign-trained Interior Designers and Decorators - Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials

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