International differences in the required an Interior Designer
In many countries, the title ‘Interior Designer’ refers back to the skills and remit products the UK label an ‘Interior Decorator. The confusion refers to protection of title. In Europe, an Interior Architect describes the identical remit and skill of any British interior designer, but as ‘Architect’ is really a protected title in the UK it wouldn't be used to describe an internal designer. Descriptions in the role and skills of interior designers differ around the globe, unlike those of an Architect, Lawyer or Doctor in which the title is clearly identified.
SBID aimed to clarify the role and definition by identifying different sector specialisms within interior planning 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 will continue to work towards title recognition with an Interior Designer in the UK.
How does an Interior Designer become qualified?
In the UK, you can now describe themselves for an ‘interior designer’. Therefore for consumer protection, separation and distinction from your 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 into their career and progress over 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 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 could further your time and effort to protect the title of ‘design’ in Great Britain.
