Beware of Short Courses in Interior Design

It seems that there has always been this misconception that Interior Design is nothing more than a hobby, or a "fun career choice".  There are numerous short, part time and online courses being advertised to the general public as "Interior Design Courses" giving the impression that, on completion of one of these courses, you would be considered an Interior Designer and could set about starting your career. This however is a far cry from the facts, Interior Design is not only an extremely technical and challenging career choice, it is also officially recognised as a profession.

The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) has recognized the South African Institute of the Interior Design Professions (The IID) as the professional body for Interior Designers, Interior Decorators and Interior Architects.  IID Members are now able to call themselves Professionals, with the following designations registered on the National Qualifications Framework:

Professional Interior Decorator

Professional Interior Designer

Professional Senior Interior Designer

Professional Interior Architect

If we look at the IID Professional Interior Design membership, for example, each member has obtained a minimum 3 year full time degree or diploma in Interior Design.  Furthermore an application to the IID will not be considered without a minimum 3 years of experience in the Interior Design field, therefore ensuring that all IID members are not only qualified but have the experience and expertise to meet the standards of the IID.   In turn Interior Decorator and Interior Architect members have their own set of requirements in order to be registered with the IID.

The IID is determined to accurately represent its professional members and to inform the public of the importance of hiring a qualified, experienced and professional Interior Decorator, Interior Designer or Interior Architect.  For those who are interested in redecorating their own homes the IID encourages those individuals to take advantage of these short courses in home décor, as they would provide some interesting insight into the decision making and coordinating required to help you with your renovations.  For those looking to make a career in the Field of Interior Design however, the IID cannot over-emphasizes the importance of investigating the course on offer and ensuring it is accredited by the relevant authorities and registered with the IID in order to avoid later disappointment.   In short, beware short of these short courses when making your career decision.  The IID would like to encourage those companies and organisations using the words “Interior Design”, “Interior Decorating” or “Interior Architecture” in their advertising to rather choose a more accurate description of the course in order to avoid any confusion.

For those who are interested in this field of study the IID has a list of registered educational institutions in your region.  Furthermore the IID is always available to give advice for those looking to hire a Designer or Decorator for a particular project.

For more information, contact the IID on national@iidprofessions.com or 0114860450 – www.iidprofessions.com