International differences in the required an Interior Designer
In many countries, the title ‘Interior Designer’ refers back to the skills and remit of 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 any British interior designer, but as ‘Architect’ is often a protected title in the UK it can't be used to describe an internal designer. Descriptions from the role and skills of interior designers differ all over the world, unlike that regarding 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 decor that require specific compliance laws. A clear perception 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, everyone can describe themselves being an ‘interior designer’. Therefore for consumer protection, separation and distinction in the masses of hobbyists makes perfect. The SBID member status denotes an enhanced volume of professional qualification and work experience beyond university education.
Designers can join at any stage into their career and progress throughout 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 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, supplying the first UK based-tested measure of knowledge that could further the trouble to protect the title of ‘decor’ in Great Britain.
