International differences in the necessary an Interior Designer
In many countries, the title ‘Interior Designer’ means skills and remit with the items the UK call an ‘Interior Decorator. The confusion works with protection of title. In Europe, an Interior Architect describes the identical remit and skill of the British interior designer, but as ‘Architect’ is usually a protected title in the UK it can'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 on the teaching structures and course content which trains new professionals. SBID will continue to work towards title recognition on an Interior Designer in the UK.
How does an Interior Designer become qualified?
In the UK, you can describe themselves being an ‘interior designer’. Therefore for consumer protection, separation and distinction in the masses of hobbyists is vital. The SBID member status denotes an enhanced a higher level professional qualification and work experience beyond university education.
Designers can join at any stage of their career and progress with the membership levels to offer the highest degree 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, giving the first UK based-tested measure of knowledge which will further the trouble to protect the title of ‘home design’ in Great Britain.
