An interior design invoice is used for billing and organizing the labor and material costs that the design of an interior space warranted. Interior designers charge for their services on an hourly basis, but frequently need to buy furniture, decorations, and other materials, as well as potentially hire contractors to make significant changes to the layout of spaces.

Table of Contents

• What is Interior Design?
• Types of Interior Design
• What Education is Required for Interior Design?
• Interior Designer Salary & Hourly Rate

What is Interior Design?

Interior design is the process of planning and improving the interiors of residential and commercial dwellings to create a more pleasant and functional atmosphere for those that occupy the buildings. The profession is closely associated with architecture and has seen an increase in popularity with modern times. With the use of colors, textures, materials, lighting, and furniture; interior decorators can make a single room evoke a myriad of emotions and feelings.

Types of Interior Design

The styles of interior design can vary widely, as with time, what was once considered “modern” can mean something entirely different at a later date. According to Rochele Decorating, the most common styles (types) of interior design are described as follows:

• Modern – Clean looking with non-complex colors. Utilizes metal, glass, and steel.
• Contemporary – Not adherent to an exact style; can include curvature in designs.
• Minimalist – Simple, non-flamboyant, and functional.
• Industrial – “Unfinished” look; exposed decor, high ceilings, and functional furniture.
• Mid-Century Modern – Retro + minimalism; popular style in the ’50s and ’60s.
• Scandinavian – Natural materials, spacious, and art-influenced.
• Traditional – Classic design, lots of accessories, with a dark color palette.
• Transitional – The combination of modern and traditional styles.
• French Country – Worn wood furnishings and soft + warm colors.
• Bohemian – Non-binding style; allows for freedom of expression. Random and carefree.
• Rustic – Makes use of wood, stone, and other “outdoorsy” materials.
• Shabby Chic – Characterized by soft, feminine, and light-colored fixtures and furniture.
• Hollywood Glam – Luxurious and dramatic; utilizes plush and velvet materials.
• Coastal / Hamptons – Inspired by the ocean; light colors and liberal use of wood.

Styles can differ from location to location, as well as with each designer’s training and taste, so the above shouldn’t be used as anything more than as a general reference.

What Education is required for Interior Design?

Obtaining formal education is not necessarily a requirement for becoming an interior designer, but can lead to increased salary (or reasoning for charging a higher hourly rate). Both Associates and Bachelors degree programs can be sufficient for providing students with the necessary knowledge to serve clients, with certifications being an option after completing advanced schooling.

Interior Designer Salary & Hourly Rate ($/hr)

Salary: $51,775/yr (source: glassdoor)

Hourly Rate: $19.91/hr (source: PayScale)