Interior Design Professional Associations
Unlike a majority of the design fields, the government, with 22 states and the District of Columbia requiring registration and/or licensing to practice, regulates interior design. It is because registration or a license isn't mandatory in all States that being a member in a professional association is beneficial. Membership to one of the main associations is an indication of an interior designer's qualifications and professional standing, but more importantly, it often aids in getting clients.
If you are a student or a professional who is not already a member of an interior design organization, you might consider joining the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) or other interior design associations. In addition to providing valuable resources to professionals in the field, these groups also publish newsletters and many post opportunities for employment.
With more than 34,500 members, ASID is the most identifiable organization for individual interior design professionals and businesses in the field of interior design. Of the Society's 20,000 practicing interior designers, 6,500 practice primarily in the commercial field with 4,000 practicing primarily as residential designers. The remaining 9,500 enjoy the ability of working in both the commercial and residential design fields.
The International Interior Design Association (IIDA) is a professional networking and educational association of more than 10,000 Members in more than 30 Chapters around the world. As an organization, the IIDA is committed to enhancing the quality of life through excellence in interior design and advancing interior design through knowledge. Members to this organization are not only advocates for interior design in general but also of the idea that interior design improves the quality of life, increases productivity, and protects the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
