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 a similar remit and skill of the British interior designer, but as ‘Architect’ is really a protected title in the UK it wouldn't be used to describe an enclosed designer. Descriptions on the role and skills of interior designers differ worldwide, unlike that surrounding an Architect, Lawyer or Doctor in which the title is clearly identified.
SBID aimed to clarify the role and definition by identifying the many sector specialisms within interior planning that require specific compliance laws. A clear perception of roles and obligations is core for the teaching structures and course content which trains new professionals. SBID is constantly on the work towards title recognition for the 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 through the masses of hobbyists is key. The SBID member status denotes an enhanced a higher level professional qualification and work experience beyond university education.
Designers can join at any stage into their career and progress from the membership levels to get 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 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, offering the first UK based-tested measure of knowledge which will further the trouble to protect the title of ‘home design’ in Great Britain.
