What is Interior Design?
While interior design has ancient roots, the modern profession as we know it today began to take shape in the early 20th century. Simply stated by IIDA, Interior Design is defined as the professional and comprehensive practice of creating an interior environment that addresses, protects, and responds to human need(s). It is the art, science, and business planning of a creative, technical, sustainable, and functional interior solution that corresponds to the architecture of a space, while incorporating process and strategy, a mandate for well-being, safety, and health, with informed decisions about style and aesthetics.
What is an NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer?
An NCIDQ Certified interior designer stands out in the field due to their rigorous certification process, which ensures they possess a formal education in interior design, stay updated with the latest design practices, and are trained to prioritize public health, safety, and welfare. This certification also mandates adherence to a strict code of ethics and professional conduct established by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ). In contrast, designers or decorators without this certification might lack formal education and oversight, which underscores the value of choosing a certified professional. The NCIDQ certification is widely recognized as the benchmark for excellence in the interior design industry, providing clients with confidence in their designer's qualifications and commitment to quality.
Read more about NCIDQ here: https://www.cidq.org/certified-interior-designers
What is the certification process?
Becoming a certified interior designer is a significant milestone that reflects dedication and expertise in the field. After acquiring around six years of combined education and experience, designers are eligible to take the exams administered by the Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ).
To qualify for these exams, aspiring designers typically need a bachelor's degree from a CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation) interior design institution, along with at least 3,520 hours—or two full years—of practical experience working under a certified interior designer or registered architect. Successfully passing these exams not only leads to certification but also opens doors to various professional opportunities.
However, the journey doesn’t end with certification. Maintaining it requires ongoing education to ensure designers stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and regulations in the industry. Designers must earn a specified number of educational credits each year, underscoring the importance of lifelong learning in providing clients with innovative and informed interior design solutions.
Why should I hire an NCIDQ Certified Interior Designer?
An NCIDQ Certified designers bring a wealth of rich knowledge and experience in design, architecture, and construction, enabling them to thoughtfully create beautiful, customized spaces that genuinely reflect your unique style, tastes, and individual needs. You can be completely confident that you are collaborating with a true expert who deeply understands the intricate details of interior design, ultimately saving you valuable time, unwanted stress, and hard-earned money.
Will working with a Certified designer cost more?
Not necessarily because both NCIDQ Certified and non-certified designers can charge similarly. In Ohio, there is currently no law that dictates what an interior designer can or can’t do regardless of certification. Hopefully this will change in the near future, as many other states have instituted such certification, licensure, and title laws for interior designers. That being said, you will typically pay for the quality and expertise of the designer you choose, regardless of their certifications. And knowing up front that you are working with an NCIDQ Certified designer will give you piece-of-mind that you are getting the value that you expect.
How does working with a Certified designer benefit contractors and builders?
NCIDQ Certified designers play a crucial role in transforming spaces into dream environments. Their extensive training and expertise in interior architecture and the construction process enable them to work closely with clients, ensuring that every design decision reflects their vision and needs.
With the ability to produce detailed and coordinated plans and drawings, these certified professionals navigate complex building codes and regulations with ease. Their deep understanding of materials and infrastructure systems—such as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC—ensures that designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and compliant.
For contractors, collaborating with an NCIDQ Certified designer means access to well-coordinated designs that simplify the construction process. This partnership fosters improved communication and reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes, ultimately leading to a more efficient project timeline. In essence, the involvement of a knowledgeable and experienced designer enhances the overall quality of construction, resulting in spaces that are beautifully crafted and built to last.
What is ASID and IIDA?
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) is the oldest and largest multi-disciplinary professional organization for interior designers, interior design students and the manufacturers and suppliers who support the profession. Through education, knowledge sharing, advocacy, community building and outreach, they strive to advance the interior design profession and, in the process, to demonstrate and celebrate the power of design to positively change people’s lives.
Read more about ASID here: https://www.asid.org/
The International Interior Design Association (IIDA) is the commercial interior design association with global reach. They support design professionals, industry affiliates, educators, students, firms, and their clients through their network of members across 58 countries. They advocate for advancement in education, design excellence, legislation, leadership, accreditation, and community outreach to increase the value and understanding of interior design as a profession that enhances business value and positively impacts the health and well-being of people’s lives every day.
Read more about IIDA here: https://iida.org/
An ASID Professional interior designer and an IIDA Professional interior designer is typically NCIDQ Certified and maintains their professional title with the organization through yearly membership as well as regular continuing education.
Why should I work with SEE Creative Interiors?
When you choose to work with an NCIDQ Certified designer from SEE Creative Interiors, you’re partnering with a professional committed to your vision and satisfaction. Our designers possess a deep understanding of both the aesthetic and functional aspects of interior design. This blend of expertise ensures that your project is not only beautiful but also practical and tailored to your lifestyle.
Our team is dedicated to streamlining the design process, eliminating stress, and ensuring your needs are met every step of the way. We take the time to understand your aesthetic preferences and functional requirements, creating spaces that reflect your unique style while enhancing your living experience.
With SEE Creative Interiors, you gain access to valuable insights about materials, products, and construction methods, allowing us to navigate the complexities of your project efficiently. Trust us to deliver exceptional service while prioritizing your goals and well-being. Together, we can transform your space into something truly remarkable.