International differences in the required 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 pertains to protection of title. In Europe, an Interior Architect describes the identical remit and skill of any British interior designer, but as ‘Architect’ is often a protected title in the UK it can't be used to describe an enclosed designer. Descriptions from the role and skills of interior designers differ worldwide, unlike that relating to 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 home design 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 will continue to work towards title recognition to have an Interior Designer in the UK.
How does an Interior Designer become qualified?
In the UK, now you may describe themselves just as one ‘interior designer’. Therefore for consumer protection, separation and distinction in the 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 within their career and progress from the membership levels to offer the highest a higher level practice being an SBID Accredited professional. SBID also accredits university course content as fit for professional practice, offering students at any recognised decor 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 may further the time and effort to protect the title of ‘design’ in Great Britain.
