International differences in the required an Interior Designer
In many countries, the title ‘Interior Designer’ means the skills and remit with the items the UK call an ‘Interior Decorator. The confusion concerns protection of title. In Europe, an Interior Architect describes the identical remit and skill of an British interior designer, but as ‘Architect’ is really a protected title in the UK it wouldn't be used to describe an internal designer. Descriptions with the role and skills of interior designers differ around the globe, unlike those of an Architect, Lawyer or Doctor in which the title is clearly identified.
SBID aimed to clarify the role and definition by identifying the different sector specialisms within interior planning that require specific compliance laws. A clear idea of roles and obligations is core towards the teaching structures and course content which trains new professionals. SBID carries on work towards title recognition on an Interior Designer in the UK.
How does an Interior Designer become qualified?
In the UK, everyone can describe themselves being an ‘interior designer’. Therefore for consumer protection, separation and distinction through the masses of hobbyists makes perfect. The SBID member status denotes an enhanced degree of professional qualification and work experience beyond university education.
Designers can join at any stage into their career and progress over the membership levels to get the highest volume of practice being an SBID Accredited professional. SBID also accredits university course content as fit for professional practice, offering students at any recognised design course free student membership. In 2022, SBID will introduce an entry exam to measure acquired knowledge. This process adds a layer above honours degree and work placements, giving the first UK based-tested measure of knowledge that could further the trouble to protect the title of ‘home design’ in Great Britain.
