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In today’s experience-driven world, clients expect design solutions that are seamlessly integrated, prioritize human welfare, and are visually appealing and engaging. Crafting spaces that effortlessly blend these essential pillars of the human experience while incorporating accessible design, building codes, healthy building strategies, and sustainability practices is a unique skill set that a National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certified Interior Designer (CID) brings to the project team.

What Does an Interior Designer Actually Do?

Interior design has evolved as a profession over the last two decades and, as a result, there has been some confusion as to what interior design is and what the CID does. The American Society of Interior Designers states the following on its website:

“Interior design supports the human experience through the functionality, materiality, safety and building codes, and much more of the interior built environment. Interior designers develop solutions that reflect their clients’ needs and demonstrate their clients’ values to all who enter or see their space. Effective interior designers support the human condition first, and the interior space second. Interior designers also focus on accessibility and inclusivity in their work to make sure that interiors can be used by all.”

Additionally, “interior designer” and “interior decorator” are often used interchangeably. While there is some overlap between the two roles, there are key differences. Below is a summary of these distinctions, as discussed in Interior Designer vs. Interior Decorator: What’s the Difference? on Forbes.com:

What’s the Difference Between an Interior Designer and an Architect?

The relationship between architects and interior designers can often be confusing, much like the relationship between interior designers and decorators. While the education and certification processes for these professions differ, there are areas of overlap. The most significant distinction is that architects are responsible for the exterior design of a building as well as the design and coordination of critical interior systems, such as structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Architects also ensure that the building envelope and site complies with overall building and energy codes. In essence, the architect oversees the comprehensive design of the building, while the interior designer focuses on the interior space, much like how an engineer specializes in a specific trade.

What is a Certified Interior Designer?

According to the International Interior Design Association’s advocacy page, “Twenty-nine states, plus Washington, DC and Puerto Rico (for a total of 31 jurisdictions), have some type of legal recognition related to the regulation of interior design.” Most states recognize the NCIDQ exam as the minimum standard. While there are various combinations of education and experience that qualify a candidate to sit for the exam, one of the most common paths includes a bachelor’s degree from an accredited interior design program and 3,520 hours of professional experience. Once these requirements are met, the candidate can sit for the 11-hour exam, which consists of three sections:

Beyond the formal education and experience required for NCIDQ certification, additional experience plays a critical role in enhancing a CID’s ability to solve complex design problems; stay within budgetary constraints; and navigate diverse teams of contractors, architects, and other professionals.

What are the CID’s Areas of Expertise?

Certified interior designers bring a diverse set of skills to the table, from creative vision to technical expertise. Key areas of expertise include:

1. Space Planning and Layout: Effective space planning considers human behavior and organizational culture to ensure that the use of a space or building maximizes functionality for all users. As experts in space planning, CIDs are uniquely qualified to coordinate these needs early in the design process.
2. Material and Finish Selection: CIDs excel at selecting materials and finishes that are durable, easy to clean, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing. These design choices are made to suit the needs of the space, reinforce branding, ensure occupant well-being, and create a cohesive design. Experienced CIDs also stay informed on cutting-edge product innovations, material detailing, and market trends to enhance design solutions.
3. Life Safety and Accessibility: Understanding and incorporating local and national building codes, accessibility standards, and safety regulations is essential to the ethical practice of interior design. Including a CID on the project team ensures compliance with these requirements, minimizing risk to the design process.
4. Sustainability and Well-Building Practices: Many CIDs hold additional certifications, such as LEED AP and WELL AP. This added knowledge base helps them make informed decisions about environmentally friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, waste reduction, and design choices that enhance the health and well-being of building occupants.
5. Interior Product Detailing: A CID’s expertise in detailing interior architectural products adds significant value to the design team. Correct product selection, specification, and installation reduce the risk of failure, extend the effective use of spaces, ensure user safety, and ultimately increase client satisfaction.
6. FF&E Selection & Specification: Understanding how people live, work, and play within spaces—and how best to support these activities—is key to successful project outcomes. Planning for these needs early in the design process ensures seamless integration as users inhabit the space.

How Do CIDs Add Value?

While adding another team member may seem counterintuitive, having the right blend of experts creates efficiency, increases client satisfaction, and boosts the bottom line. Some ways a CID can enhance your project team include:

1. Professional Expertise and Creativity: The design process requires a balance of technical knowledge and creative vision. CIDs bring innovative ideas to the table and help avoid costly design mistakes that may arise from a lack of technical expertise.
2. Cost Efficiency: While adding a CID to the design team may seem like an additional expense, this expertise often results in long-term cost savings. CIDs help clients make smarter decisions when selecting materials, considering product life cycles and maintenance, and maximizing the premium value of space.
3. Enhanced Detailing: The best details are often the ones that go unnoticed. CIDs refine design details, from the macro to the micro level. This includes custom millwork design, integrated lighting solutions, wayfinding and signage, and accommodating specific occupant needs. Addressing these details up front leads to more accurate project budgets and fewer costly change orders.
4. Access to Resources and Contacts: Experienced CIDs have established relationships with a wide range of suppliers, contractors, and artisans. This network enables clients to access high-quality materials, furniture, and services at competitive prices. Additionally, CIDs can leverage these contacts to address challenges that arise throughout the construction process.

C&S’s Certified Interior Design Team

Most of our projects require expertise in the design, coordination, and construction of various trades, and the interior space has come to require its own expert. The CID is that expert in the design of interior spaces. At C&S, we have a talented, experienced, and dedicated team of certified interior designers who are passionate about elevating the quality of our projects. Ultimately, these professionals serve as the interface between the built environment and the human experience.