Interior designer salaries in the UK range from £22,000 for junior studio positions to £60,000+ for senior designers at prestigious London studios. Self-employed and residential interior designers have highly variable incomes, typically tied to project size and client portfolio.
Interior Designer Salary UK 2026 Salary Ranges 2026
| Role | Salary range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Junior interior designer | £22,000–£28,000 | Studio role, assisting on projects |
| Interior designer (mid-level) | £28,000–£38,000 | Project lead on residential or commercial |
| Senior interior designer | £38,000–£55,000 | Client relationships, large project management |
| Interior design director / studio lead | £55,000–£80,000 | Studio management, business development |
| Self-employed / residential designer | £25,000–£80,000+ | Percentage of project value or day rate |
Figures are indicative. Actual salaries vary by employer, location (London commands a premium of 15–30%), and individual performance.
Take-Home Pay at a Typical Interior Designer Salary
Using a typical mid-career salary of approximately £33,000:
See our take-home pay calculator for an exact figure based on your salary.
Qualifications Required
BA Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or Spatial Design (BIID / BIAD recognised). BIID membership preferred for senior roles. ArchiCAD/AutoCAD and 3D visualisation skills essential.
How to Increase Your Earnings
- Build a luxury residential portfolio — high-net-worth clients command premium fees
- Develop procurement relationships with furniture and materials suppliers to earn trade margin
- Transition to project-based self-employment once you have 3–5 strong portfolio projects
Regional Salary Variation
London roles command a significant premium — typically 15–30% above equivalent regional salaries. However, higher London rents and living costs often offset the salary advantage. See our regional salary guides for city-by-city comparisons.