International differences in the necessary an Interior Designer
In many countries, the title ‘Interior Designer’ means skills and remit with the items the UK label an ‘Interior Decorator. The confusion works with protection of title. In Europe, an Interior Architect describes precisely the same remit and skill of the British interior designer, but as ‘Architect’ can be a protected title in the UK it can't be used to describe an internal designer. Descriptions on the role and skills of interior designers differ worldwide, unlike that surrounding an Architect, Lawyer or Doctor the place that the title is clearly identified.
SBID aimed to clarify the role and definition by identifying the different sector specialisms within decor that require specific compliance laws. A clear idea of roles and obligations is core on the teaching structures and course content which trains new professionals. SBID carries on work towards title recognition to have an Interior Designer in the UK.
How does an Interior Designer become qualified?
In the UK, you can describe themselves just as one ‘interior designer’. Therefore for consumer protection, separation and distinction from your masses of hobbyists is key. The SBID member status denotes an enhanced degree of professional qualification and work experience beyond university education.
Designers can join at any stage of their career and progress with 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 interior planning 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, offering the first UK based-tested measure of knowledge that may further the trouble to protect the title of ‘home design’ in Great Britain.
