Page 16 - Designing Ways 250

IID

Interior Design Professions:

Choosing an Institution with an accredited qualification
and why it is important

n this increasingly competitive qualification. An accredited qualification
industry, formal education in Interior offered by a higher education institution
IDesign, Interior Architecture or must be registered on the South African
Decorating will provide a thorough Qualification Authority (SAQA) and on
educational grounding which is critical the National Qualification Framework
to the future direction and success of the (NQF). The qualification must also
industry. The art and science of creating be registered with the Department of
a healthy, comfortable and aesthetically Education and Industry (DHET) and
pleasing interior environment for people accredited by the Higher Education
requires knowledge of architectural Quality Committee (HEQC). SAQA
structures and space planning. It entails verifies the authenticity of South
a thorough understanding of applicable African qualifications for employers or
building regulations, the functional individuals. This service can be accessed
application of building services such as by following the link: http://verisearch.
ventilation, lighting and sound, materials saqa.org.za/.
and finishes, and interior fittings and The African Institute of the Interior
furniture placement. Interior designers Design Professions (IID) supports the
work with architects, quantity surveyors, development and expansion of interior
engineers, project managers, building design education to promote excellence membership can only be granted to
contractors and suppliers. Although in interior design practice. The IID accredited institutions. Individuals can
entry into the interior design industry is is the professional body representing request a list by sending an email to
possible without a formal qualification, the Interior Design industry in South national@iidprofessions.org.za.
a significant amount of work experience Africa and serves registered, practising Individuals have different needs and
with an impressive portfolio will be interior architects, interior designers and should be attentive to these when selecting
required to impress potential employers. interior decorators. It is recommended an institution. It would be beneficial to
Whether an undergraduate or that qualified interior designers and speak to students or staff at an institution
postgraduate qualification, it is vital to professionals apply to an educational before deciding whether a programme or
research the credentials of a planned institution registered with the IID, since institution is the right fit.

16 Issue 250 • dw