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IID

Navigating the path in Interior Design

Choosing the right educational foundation

n the ever-evolving and highly the industry is possible without formal visiting facilities during Open Days can
competitive realm of interior design, qualifications, the importance of a robust provide valuable insights. To make an
Iformal education serves as the portfolio and substantial work experience informed decision, ask pertinent questions
cornerstone for aspiring designers looking cannot be overstated. such as the accreditation status, the types
to carve their niche in the industry. The Educational qualifications play a crucial of qualifications offered (diploma or
fusion of art and science, aimed at creating role in shaping the future trajectory degree), admission requirements, and the
visually pleasing and functionally efficient and success of interior designers. existence of postgraduate programmes. If
interior spaces, demands a comprehensive The choice of a reputable institution the institution does not offer postgraduate
understanding of architectural structures, becomes paramount, and prospective programmes themselves, it is crucial to
spatial planning, materials, building students should meticulously research ascertain if the qualifications obtained
services, and fitting, fixtures and the credentials of the qualifications will be recognised by other institutions
furnishings. While it's true that entry into they are considering. Key indicators for further postgraduate studies. For those
of a programme's legitimacy include aspiring to become registered Interior
accreditation from the South African Architects with the IID, pursuing a Master's
Ilse Prinsloo Qualification Authority, (SAQA), the Degree in Interior Design from a registered
Head of Department National Qualification Framework educational institute is imperative.
Interior Design (NQF), registration with the Department Quality assurance mechanisms,
University of Johannesburg
of Education and Industry (DHET), and academic support, and the availability
accreditation by the Higher Education of facilities such as libraries and relevant
Quality Committee (HEQC). software are essential considerations. An
Standing as a pillar of support for institution's alumni network can also serve
interior design education is the African as a valuable resource, offering insights
Institute of the Interior Design Professions into the post-graduation landscape and
(IID), the professional body representing potential networking opportunities.
the Interior Design industry in South In conclusion, the journey to a
Africa. To align with industry standards, successful career in interior design begins
they recommend pursuing education with a solid educational foundation.
from institutions registered with the IID. Aspiring designers must navigate
Membership in IID is exclusively granted through the myriad of options, carefully
to those who graduate from accredited evaluating each institution's accreditation,
institutions. A list of such institutions programme offerings, and alignment
can be obtained by contacting national@ with professional bodies like the IID. By
iidprofessions.org.za. making informed choices, students can
Prospective interior designers need embark on a path that not only hones their
to carefully consider their unique needs creative skills but also equips them with the
and preferences when selecting an knowledge and expertise required to thrive
educational institution. Engaging with in the competitive world of interior design.
current students and faculty, attending dw
exhibitions showcasing student work, and www.iidprofessions.org.za

12 Issue 274 • dw