52121

Interior designers and interior decorators

TEER 2 — College diploma, apprenticeship (2+ yrs) or supervisory

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: No
In demand in Manitoba: Yes

Classification

Art, culture, recreation & sport

5 › 52 › 521 › 5212

Definition

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.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Consult with clients to determine needs, preferences, safety requirements and purpose of space
Develop detailed plans and 3-D models showing arrangement of walls, dividers, displays, lighting and other fixtures using computer-assisted design (CAD) software and graphics software
Develop plans, elevations, cross sections and detailed drawings, and advise on selection of colours, finishes and materials, floor and wall coverings, window treatments, interior and exterior lighting, furniture and other items, taking into account ergonomic and occupational health standards
Estimate costs and materials required and may advise on leasing, real estate and marketing
Prepare plans and specifications for the final interior designs in accordance with current practices and codes
Work in a multidisciplinary environment
May direct site work crews and subcontractors.
Interior designers are experts in the area of interior architecture, construction materials and building codes. They may specialize in designing interiors for residential, commercial, institutional, cultural and industrial buildings and for aircraft, ships or trains, trade shows and exhibitions. Interior decorators may specialize in decorating residential or commercial interior spaces, home staging, colour consulting and home organizing.

Example job titles

•aircraft interior designer
•interior decorator
•interior design technician
•interior designer
•kitchen designer
•office space planner
•retail space planner

Overview

Under Canada's NOC 2021 system, "Interior designers and interior decorators" are classified under NOC code 52121, which falls within TEER category 2. This occupation involves planning, designing, and furnishing the interiors of residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial buildings to create aesthetic, safe, and functional spaces. Candidates seeking Canadian permanent residency through Express Entry programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, must meet the specific employment requirements outlined by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

Employment requirements differ between the two primary roles under this classification. Interior designers generally require a university degree or college diploma in interior design, often accompanied by a creative portfolio, passing the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam, and registration with a provincial governing body. Conversely, interior decorators typically require a college diploma, certificate, or university program in interior decoration, alongside a portfolio of creative work.

Eligible professionals in this category can leverage Express Entry or various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) to transition to Canadian permanent residence. When preparing an application, it is crucial to ensure that your previous job duties and educational credentials precisely align with the official ESDC guidelines for NOC 52121. Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional immigration advice. For official guidance, consult IRCC or a regulated Canadian immigration professional.

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.