Design Students | Society of British & International Interior Design https://www.sbid.org/category/design-students/ Wed, 11 Jun 2025 14:55:32 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://www.sbid.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cropped-SBID-Breakfast-Meeting-Logo-32x32.jpg Design Students | Society of British & International Interior Design https://www.sbid.org/category/design-students/ 32 32 Planted and Vectorworks Launch Student Competition to Champion Regenerative Design https://www.sbid.org/planted-and-vectorworks-launch-student-competition-to-champion-regenerative-design/ Tue, 01 Jul 2025 09:30:47 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=86711 The post Planted and Vectorworks Launch Student Competition to Champion Regenerative Design appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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Planted Community is proud to announce a new partnership with global design and BIM software provider Vectorworks to launch Design for Regeneration, an exciting UK-wide student design competition seeking to champion the next generation of regenerative designers.

Undergraduate students from across the country are invited to submit work for the Design for Regeneration competition, which reimagines the built and natural world through regenerative design.

The competition is open to students studying architecture, interior and landscape design, furniture, product and industrial design. The winner will receive a £1,000 cash prize, a one-year subscription to Vectorworks Design Suite, and a two-night stay in Planted’s luxury off-grid cabin at River Cottage, Axminster.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Vectorworks on Design for Regeneration, a competition that will showcase the very best in emerging British design talent,” said Planted co-founder Deborah Spencer. “It provides a vital platform for young creatives to demonstrate how regenerative thinking can shape a healthier, more sustainable future.”

“We are committed to nurturing new approaches that centre nature and sustainability at the heart of design, helping to safeguard the planet for future generations.”

Projects will be judged on creativity, innovation, material choices, aesthetics, and crucially clear regenerative intent. The panel will look for designs that not only minimise harm to natural ecosystems, also actively contribute to their restoration and renewal.

As a leading platform for sustainable design, Planted connects people, businesses, and ideas through events, content and collaborations that promote nature-based solutions and regenerative practices.

Deborah Spencer, whose career began at New Designers held at the Business Design Centre and who later founded the award-winning designjunction before co-founding Planted will lead a distinguished judging panel. The panel includes fellow Planted co-founder and former Sunday Times journalist Sam Peters, biophilic design expert Oliver Heath, and River Cottage CEO Stewart Dodd.

Entries must be submitted by Wednesday 31 July 2025. Finalists will be announced in early September, with winners revealed at the Vectorworks Design Day conference at the Royal College of Physicians in London on Tuesday 14 October 2025.

“At Vectorworks, we believe the future of design lies in regenerative thinking that not only respects but actively restores our natural world,” said Tyler French, Vectorworks Academic Marketing Manager.

“We’re proud to support Design for Regeneration in partnership with Planted, a leading platform for sustainable design that shares our commitment to driving positive change. Together, we aim to empower the next generation of designers with the tools to shape a more regenerative built environment.”

How to Enter

Students can enter by submitting their project via the official competition entry form, available at: www.planted-community.co.uk/vectorworkscompetition

Submissions must include:
– A short project description (max 300 words) outlining the regenerative intent
– Supporting visuals (drawings, renders, models created in Vectorworks)
– A brief biography and course/university details

All entries must be received by midnight on Wednesday 31 July 2025.

About Vectorworks

Exceptional design demands exceptional tools – a platform built to deliver absolute creative expression and maximum efficiency. Vectorworks believe your design software should offer the freedom to follow your imagination wherever it may lead you, to seamlessly share your vision at any phase, and to easily interpret the information needed to make the smartest decisions every time.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

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Six Essential Tips For Becoming An Interior Designer https://www.sbid.org/six-essential-tips-for-becoming-an-interior-designer/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 10:30:05 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=66643 The post Six Essential Tips For Becoming An Interior Designer appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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A job in interior design can be very rewarding and give you a creative way to do what you love. The business is big and getting bigger.

But people who want to work in interior design do need a certain set of skills to be successful. If you want to know how to become an interior designer, you can get the tools and experience you need with support from SBID. For a successful career in interior design, you’ll need the following skills, whether you have them already or have to work hard to get them:

 A Creative Mind & A Focus On Detail

First of all, you’ll have to be a very creative person – from design considerations to creative problem-solving. You will have to design spaces for many different kinds of clients. Even though it can be helpful to have a point of view, you’ll also need to be flexible and be able to propose creative solutions. To design cohesive spaces that go together and meet your client’s needs, you’ll need to pay attention to both the small details and the big picture at the same time.

 

Identifying A Trend

As trends may come and go, you will need to keep up with them. Understanding the current landscape and knowing the difference between short and long term trends will help you stay relevant and in demand if you can spot and predict trends. Plus, if you can spot bad trends and work to futureproof your designs, your job will be useful for many years to come.

 

Knowledge of Environmental Practices

Clients are more and more likely to ask for more conscious designs or eco-friendly features. They will depend on you to make the best decision for them, so having knowledge of environmental practices and integrating them into interiors is not only key to their satisfaction, but also in ensuring designs are more sustainable.

 

Superior Communication

As an interior designer, you’ll need to be able to explain your vision clearly to clients as well as listen carefully to their feedback to optimise your designs according to the brief and their preferences. You’ll also have to work with third party contractors, tradesmen, suppliers, architects or other construction and fit out specialists who will be responsible for putting your designs into action. It’s therefore important you can effectively communicate to ensure the design process and project procurement runs smoothly!

 

Ability To Draw And Use Digital Software

If you’ve ever thought about how to become an interior designer, you could well think you’d have to draw everything by hand. Whilst this is a useful skill, most interior designers use computer programmes to create visualisations of their work these days. Having the ability to use both techniques to convey design ideas will make you more useful to your clients and help them better understand your intentions for the space.

But because of how popular home design shows are on TV, clients particularly want to see 2D and 3D images of designs in person.

 

Organisation

To finish projects on time and on budget (and keep your client’s happy), a good interior designer needs to be highly organised. Project procurement presents a whole host of logistical considerations when it comes to scheduling orders, production, deliveries and on-site works. When tasks take too long or unexpected issues crop up, costs can rise above what was promised. When this happens, it’s unlikely that a client will want to hire you again, so it’s important to stay as organised as possible to minimise the chance of delays and factor in the impact of any potential problems along the way. Designers have to plan everything down to the last day and dollar spent. Even though delays and costs you didn’t plan for will likely happen, you’ll need to be ready to deal with them promptly, and ahead of time.

Are you still thinking about becoming an interior designer? At The Society of British and International Interior Design, we offer CPD training programmes to help you get off to a solid start in your career. If you want to learn more on how to become an interior designer, visit our website or get in touch with us today.

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Why Is Interior Design A Viable Career Option? https://www.sbid.org/why-is-interior-design-a-viable-career-option/ Tue, 22 Nov 2022 10:30:18 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=66800 The post Why Is Interior Design A Viable Career Option? appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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Interior design is something that will always be needed. Wanting a nice home interior to live in, workspace to be productive in or public space to engage with is a requirement that won’t simply ‘go out of style’. Our interior environment has an enormous impact on how we feel, and is actually something that people are more than willing to pay for. Interior design has an increasing importance in society for its impact on our wellbeing and how we experience a places and spaces we spend time in.

If you are in interior design or looking into it as a career, you might find yourself wondering what makes it a viable career option, and just how it can help or benefit you. Here we have put together some of the top reasons why it is a great path to pursue!

It’s a fantastic creative outlet with a lot of diversity

If you are a creative person, one of the best things about interior design is that it offers a myriad of chances for you to exert this creativity every day. You will have a hand in how rooms, spaces or sets will look, from someone’s bedroom or front room to an office environment or a restaurant. You can help to bring a space to life with creative solutions and get to enjoy the fact that no two days – or brief – is the same. With such varying scopes and individual variety, you will get to sink your teeth into interesting project after interesting project, without having to worry about getting bored as every new client or project comes with new requirements and challenges.

 

It’s not limited to a single field

Whether you are more interested in bold or minimal interiors, residential design, landscape design, or functional workspaces, you can make the job what you want of it. You aren’t restricted and can instead broaden your horizons to work on what you are really interested in. Once you have been in the field for a while you will know what you are better at and what you enjoy the most so you can specialise or broaden your horizons when it suits you. This will enable you to apply for and choose the roles that are better suited for you and your skills specifically.

 

It’s a job that will always be needed

Unlike some jobs that might lose demand or are vulnerable to being taken over by technologies or societal trends, interior designers will always be required. Nothing can replicate the human interaction and intuition needed take in a space and find out what the client wants and desires before turning a vision into a reality. Your aptitude for design along with your ability for liaising with stakeholders and sourcing the best objects, fabrics, and items will always be essential to designing an outstanding interior that fits the brief. As your knowledge and skills grow over time, this will only become more sought after. Interior design is one of those careers that offer real longevity and adds value to many aspects of society, both in terms of the business world and the personal one.

 

These are just a few reasons why an interior design career is a valuable one. From being able to exercise your creative abilities every day, to having the freedom to give your advice and insight and bring a project to life, there are so many benefits to be had. If you are looking for a career change or if you are taking your first career and want it to be in interior design, this should help to explain just why it’s so beneficial. Are you an interior designer? Or looking to get into interior design? If so, what do you think?

Join The Society of British & International Interior Design to become an accredited interior designer, or check out our accredited Designer Directory to find a professional to work with.

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Moving Your Interior Design Career Forward Can Be Challenging, But It’s Worth It https://www.sbid.org/moving-your-interior-design-career-forward-can-be-challenging-but-its-worth-it/ Tue, 01 Nov 2022 10:30:54 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=66785 The post Moving Your Interior Design Career Forward Can Be Challenging, But It’s Worth It appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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Are you hoping to take your interior design career further? Perhaps you have been stuck in the same spot for a long time now, and you have finally decided that now is the time for a change. Or, perhaps you simply think that you are now ready for something that you may not have been ready for before. If you are hoping to move your career forward, then you have got to make people notice you, including your boss. In this article, we’re going to be taking a look at some of the things that you can do, even though it’s going to be challenging. We promise that it’s going to be worth it when you achieve your goal. Keep reading down below if you would like to find out more about this.

Education is essential

One of the most important things we want to mention is that education is essential. You should have the right level of education for the role that you are hoping to go for next, which might mean that you have to take some courses at the local college or seek additional online training. Education is essential in this business because things are constantly changing and evolving – that means that you have to keep up to date on all the latest trends, innovations, regulations and so on. In fact, you should never really stop learning if you want to take your interior design career forward. Just as you get your head around one thing, there’s always something else entirely different waiting for you. Never take the power of education for granted – if you have the opportunity to keep learning, then you should take it! 

SBID membership provides interior designers with access to specialist, ongoing training through a unique CPD Directory for Continuing Professional Development. This is a great resource for fine-tuning technical design knowledge to advance your designs and skills! 

 

Make Connections In The Industry

If you want to further your career, you have got to actively go out and make helpful connections in the industry. The more people you know in higher places, the more opportunities you can potentially unlock, as they may be able to help you take your career further when there are openings. Have you ever heard the phrase ‘it’s not what you know, it’s who you know’? This is true to a certain extent for the interior design industry, but not exclusively. It’s about both of these things, so you have got to work on both first and foremost. 

Attend networking events and engage in general activities that encourage you to mingle with new people in the industry. You never know who you are speaking to at any given time, so try to keep that in mind when you are talking. The more connections that you make, the more likely it is that you will be able to utilise them in the future. Having friends in the right places is never a bad thing, so don’t underestimate the power of networking. Visit SBID’s industry event calendar for upcoming design events or subscribe for updates.

 

Strong Relationships With Clients Will Help

It is also important that you know how to build strong relationships with your clients. The last thing that you want is to be known as someone who does one job for someone, but nobody ever goes to back when they have future projects or interior design needs. You need to be well informed, open and honest to create solid foundations and loyal clients. There are a few things that you need to do in order to achieve this goal, and the first is to provide a fantastic service. While you are doing this, you should be friendly, polite, interested, present and overall, available to your clients when they need you! The more strong bonds you can form and nurture with people, the better. They are more likely to come back to you if they feel as though they have a real connection with you, and of course, if your work is completed to the highest quality.

 

Update Your Portfolio Regularly

Moving your career forward in interior design is not the easiest thing to do, which is why you have got to showcase your talent at every opportunity that you get. One way that you can do this is to update your portfolio regularly. If you update this regularly, people will be able to see the progression of your work, as well as your versatility and latest designs. This is what you need to showcase to as many different people as you can.

Always ask your clients after you have completed a project if you can take professional photos of the finished result. If you know it’s going to be a truly spectacular job, you should ask them if you can take before photos as well so that the two can be compared. There is no better way to showcase your skills than to show what you can create from a tired, unusable or uninspiring space.

 

Launch A Fantastic Website

You are going to need your own website if you want to take your career one step further. If you are someone who works on your own and is not part of a firm, then a website will massively increase the number of people who can find you. Make sure your website appeals to as many people as possible, ensure it’s easy to use, and most importantly, make sure it grabs attention with design-led detail and high quality images.

Your website should be there to showcase how incredible you are, to tell people about why they should choose you over the others on the market and so much more. It needs to be completed to a high standard, which means that no cookie-cutter sites are acceptable. For more advice on creating a website, click here.

 

Try Everything, Be Diverse

Grabbing attention in an industry that is jam-packed with other creatives is not the easiest thing in the world to do. As such, the best way to get noticed is to be versatile and diverse. Try every kind of interior design that appeals to you. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and try to create something beautiful while you are outside of it. Show that you can do whatever is required of you, no matter what this entails as you can always rise to new challenges and adapt to the project at hand.

There is something to be said for choosing a specific niche or focusing on a speciality, but there is also something to be said for being able to cater to other design sectors as well. If you can prove that you are someone who excels in multiple areas, then you are future-proofing your design skills and will likely rise in popularity as soon as word gets around about your versatile skillset! 

 

Learn From Your Mistakes

One of the most crucial things you need to do when moving your interior design career forward is going to be learning from your mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. Not all of your projects are going to turn out as perfectly or exactly as you envisioned, and that is okay. You need to learn from the mistakes that you have made and fix them as soon as you can. You are human like everyone else, so you’re allowed to get things wrong as long as you are willing to work with the mistakes and do what you can to make them right.

Just because you make a mistake does not mean that it is the end of the world. In fact, mistakes are actually the best way for you to learn. Take it on the chin, and ensure that you don’t make the same mistake more than once. Once is a mistake, twice is a pattern! 

 

Be Open To Feedback

As well as learning from your mistakes, you have also got to open to feedback and criticism. A creative field like interior design is largely subjective and open to personal tastes and preferences. Not everyone is going to like what you do, and people are going to want different things from their interiors, so you won’t always get it right in your first attempt. You have got to be open to criticism and feedback in order to improve your offering, whether this comes from the client or from another designer. Feedback is there to help you improve, not to tear down your confidence and make you never want to design again! 

In this industry, there is going to be a lot of feedback for you to work with on most of your projects, so you’ve got to be able to take it. If you can’t, then you’re never going to make it as a successful interior designer. Even top designers get feedback on their work, and it’s something that you should welcome. Someone is seeing something that you missed, or perhaps just seeing things from a different perspective. This is not a bad thing, and you should never act or feel like it. Use it as an opportunity to grow as an interior designer instead.

We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the things that you can do in order to move your interior design career forward. In some cases, it can be extremely challenging, but it is going to be worth it when you see the kind of results that you are looking for. Everyone wants to take their career to the highest possible level, and this is going to take a lot of dedication, hard work and getting creative with how to hone and showcase your skills. Hopefully, the advice that we have given above will prove useful to you, and you will be pushing your career higher than ever before.

We wish you the very best of luck with your endeavors and hope you see results soon! Take a look at our website to learn more about what we can do to support interior designers and progress interior design businesses. Whether you’re a student or own your own design firm, the Society of British and International Interior Design is here to help.

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Is Interior Design The Right Career Path For You? https://www.sbid.org/is-interior-design-the-right-career-path-for-you/ Tue, 18 Oct 2022 09:30:50 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=66782 The post Is Interior Design The Right Career Path For You? appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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Is interior design the right career path for you? It’s important that you are questioning your career path as much as you can because this is the only way that you are going to know if it’s perfect for you or not. In this article, we’re going to be taking a look at some of the signs that interior design is the right career path for you, but you are the one with the final decision. Perhaps there are other career pathways you are considering, this article will help you determine whether interior design is right for you.

Keep reading if you would like to find out more.

You have an eye for detail

The first sign that interior design is the right career path for you is if you have an eye for detail. Those who work in creative fields like this have got to be able to see things in the smallest of details. You should be able to look at the smaller things and be able to use them to your advantage, rather than just the wider concept of a space. For example, a good interior designer will know that sometimes it’s the smaller details that can make or break a space, and how to make the most of them.

If you know that you have an eye for detail, this is a fantastic career choice for you if you are interested. You can design homes and offices and there are so many options available to you. Those details are what are going to set you apart from the others though, so don’t underestimate them.

 

Being creative is what you love

If being creative is what you love, then this is a creative field that you may enjoy. People like to express their creativity in lots of different ways, and some people do this by creating beautiful spaces for others. It might be the case that you tried your hand at painting and other types of art, but found that your love didn’t quite make it to that point. A lot of people who move into the interior design world have tried other types of art, only to have their heart pull them in this direction instead.

There is no way for you to make it in the interior design world if you are not creative though. As such, if you know that creativity does not run in your veins, then this is likely not going to be the career path that you should follow. You’ve got to be able to create miracles out of the minimum, and if you can’t do this then you won’t see success in this career.

 

The idea brings you joy

Does the idea of being an interior designer for the rest of life bring you joy, or fill you with dread? If it’s the second, then there is no point in even considering a career in this industry, so we recommend you stop reading now. If the first is true though, then that is a good sign it might be the right choice for you. Passion is super important when it comes to any career because passion will come through in the work that you are producing. When you are passionate about something, and when passion has been put into a project, it really shows through.

If the idea of being an interior designer makes you happy, then it’s certainly something that you can try. Some people find the reality a little different to what they expected, but you will either adjust or you won’t, it’s as simple as that. You’re never going to know if you do not try.

 

You enjoy interacting with others

Interior designing is not a closed-off job. You will be expected to mingle with clients and other designers, suppliers and so much more, so you have got to enjoy interacting with people. If you are someone who prefers to stay in the background and not interact with people as often as you can, then this is likely not going to be the career for you. You have got to be able to talk to people whenever it’s needed, and it’s helpful if you genuinely enjoy communicating with others.

Clients are the most important part of this as you are going to have to liaise with them a lot to ensure that you are providing what they want. As such, you have got to have your communication skills up to par, but as well as this they will be able to tell if you don’t want to be talking to them. People don’t want to work with someone who doesn’t want to talk to them and seems rushed to get through conversations as it comes across as though you don’t care what they have to say.

 

Constantly on the ball

Are you constantly on the ball? When you walk into a room, are you always thinking about how you could rearrange things to make them better? Are you always thinking about lots of different colours, what would look good in here, and how you could take it from what it is now, to something better? If the answer is yes then it appears you are always on the ball, even if you don’t necessarily mean to be. This is a good quality for someone in the interior design business because sometimes this is where you get your best ideas from. Being able to see the potential in any space will really help you to create the perfect space.

There are not a lot of people that are constantly on the ball, so if this is you then it’s a desirable trait.

 

Taking constructive feedback doesn’t phase you

A lot of the time in this industry you are going to receive constructive feedback, and you can’t let it phase you. Instead, you have got to use this to improve the services that you are offering, and you have to use the criticism to make the project better. Constructive feedback is useful for everyone, so you want to make sure that you can take it before you get into this industry. There is always going to be someone with something to say about the work that you have done, but you have got to be confident while still remaining open-minded.

There are too many people out there who get defensive when someone tries to give them feedback, but this is never going to work. You have got to be willing to listen to the client, see their point of view and change things to fit what they want.

 

A challenge gets you excited

A lot of interior design projects are going to be quite the challenge. There are a lot of people who want miracles performed when it comes to their interior design, and when you face some of these people, you have got to get excited by the challenge. If not, then you’re going to give up far too easily, you’re not going to get the job done, and you’re going to get a reputation as someone who is not willing to take on the tougher jobs. This is not something that you need for your professional reputation, so a challenge has got to be something that you look forward to.

Every project is going to be a new challenge in a sense. People always want something different, so even if they like your previous work they are going to want to change a few things. Sometimes it can be tough to do so, especially if you are supposed to incorporate something that the client wants into the design, but you’ve got to try and see what you can do. If you like challenges, then this is a fantastic idea for you.

 

You are often thinking about new ideas

The final thing that we’re going to say is that interior design might be the right career path for you if you are often thinking about new ideas. There is always something new and exciting that can be done to a space to improve it, it just takes the right person to see it. If you think that this could be you, then you could have a promising career here.

We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see whether or not interior design is the right career path for you to be following. At the end of the day, the only person who can answer whether it is right for you or not is going to be you, but this article has hopefully helped you on your way a little. We wish you the very best of luck and hope that you manage to make the right pathway for your career. Remember it takes a lot of commitment, learning and training to become a professional interior designer, so make sure it’s something you really want before you commit to it. If you want to learn more about interior design, from design tips to industry news, read our other blogs.

You can find out more about the role of an interior designer, here

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Creating an Effective Interior Design Website https://www.sbid.org/creating-an-effective-interior-design-website/ Tue, 04 Oct 2022 09:30:52 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=66788 The post Creating an Effective Interior Design Website appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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Your website is a storefront for your interior design services, and a potential customer’s first impression of your brand. A website is also the primary way that you can attract audiences and grow your business in the online world. Invest intelligently, and don’t underestimate the power that a professional website can have for your business.

Website Design

In many ways, your website is a reflection of your brand image; it’s the first impression customers and clients have of your business and influences your relationship with them going forward. When designing your website, it’s important to keep your brand image in mind so your online presence is consistent with other communication channels or media platforms, and looks professional.

If you choose to build your website using a website builder, you can select a theme relevant to your interior design business; the downside is that themes are recognisable and can lack originality. For this reason, it’s worth investing a little more in your website design to develop an original style that is more memorable and stands out from the crowd.

 

Website Navigation

Website navigation is a high priority – not only for customer experience, but also for search engine functionality. The latest search engine algorithms account for how easily users can find their search intent on your website; it also takes into account page loading speeds, so you should ensure that your website design is user-friendly, and any images used are optimised and formatted appropriately.

Navigation refers to how well users can find their way around your site and locate their primary search intent. Not only do you need clear menu options on every page, but all of your links must be working correctly and connect to the right, relevant pages – it’s crucial to pay attention to the user journey as you develop your website, making it as easy as possible for visitors to find the information they’re looking for. These factors also support your website’s on-site SEO strategy.

 

Cross Platform Functionality

These days, even a well-designed website will underperform unless it has cross-platform functionality, which means it is capable of functioning on mobile and tablet devices, as well as traditional computers and laptop screens. This functionality helps to improve SEO efforts and the user experience.

Around seven billion people worldwide use smartphones nowadays, and it is one of the primary ways people access information, so if your website is not optimised for mobile, then it is likely to receive less traffic and fewer leads. Most site builders will offer smartphone integration to ensure your website can serve audiences, in whichever medium they find you on!

 

High-Quality SEO

Digital advertising is effective, but it is also costly. Paid advertising should always be considered, but that must be in addition to high-quality, organic growth that can be achieved using a clear SEO strategy. Not only does SEO improve user experience, but it also makes your business more visible to the right customers.

To create high-quality SEO on your website, make sure you are producing relevant content that adds value to your customer’s experience of your website. Additionally, make sure you are using relevant keywords and that everything is optimised – including the HTML code in images.

 

Calls to Action

A call to action should not be underestimated. When creating content for your website, it can be easy to overlook a call to action or simply assume that the next step is obvious to visitors and an essential statement can be omitted. That is not the case. Studies show that visitors respond to the calls!

A call to action can be a request to take action on a webpage, such as signing up for a newsletter, arranging a consultation call, following you on social media, or requesting a quote for interior design services. Make sure visitors can visibly see see what action to take when they finish reading.

Looking for another way to showcase professionalism on your website? Becoming an accredited interior designer through the Society of British & International Interior Design can enhance your professional profile and raise industry credibility.

The SBID Accredited marque is globally recognised symbol of design standards and quality across the profession.

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Biophilic Design: Integrating Plants Into Modern Interiors https://www.sbid.org/biophilic-design-plants-in-modern-interior-design/ Tue, 27 Sep 2022 09:30:15 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=64323 The post Biophilic Design: Integrating Plants Into Modern Interiors appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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As well as the stunning visual appearance, biophilic design (the incorporation of nature in the layout of indoor environments) is recognised to have calming effects, reducing stress and creating an environment of focus and serenity. For these reasons, authentic and artificial plants can prove to be the ideal accompaniment to a lounge area, bedroom or bathroom, with plenty of varieties well worth considering for any interior to add a different dimension of visual interest.

Depending on individual preferences for plant care and maintenance, the right selection of colourful flowers, ornamental indoor cactuses or synthetic greenery in an empty corner of a room can make all the difference to the overall design. Let the Society of British & International Interior Design guide you through the importance of using plants in modern interiors, with some useful tips on how to integrate them into your interior designs.

Creative Use Of Space

Analysing a space and understanding the existing strengths and weaknesses is one way to decide whether incorporating plants would be a wise idea. For rooms in need of a pop of colour, a selection of bright flowers or plants with large green leaves could benefit the space, while study areas or home offices may be accessorised with smaller potted succulents for more subtle, easily-maintained decoration.

Sometimes, less is more! Overcrowding a room can often limit the comfort of guests and residents alike, so instead of impulsively squeezing various plants into a design that’s already fully accessorised, consider the inclusion of plants in your initial space planning and be strategic about removing items, accessories or utilities to make room for pleasant moments of greenery.

 

Visual Intrigue And Presentation

While large plants, or even small trees, are liable to make an immediate impact on any room, they are perfect for minimalistic and spacious interiors, where you want to emphasise a certain part of the design or make a bigger biophilic statement. On the other hand, aloe, English ivy, and philodendron are excellent smaller plants to consider for shelving, so do your research to find the ideal pairings for your space. Calm-inducing qualities can also be found in the aroma of some plants, with lavender’s soothing fragrance likely to prove a hit in a bathroom or study.

 

Suitability and Maintenance

Plants which are easy to care for are desirable for many homeowners. Bamboo is a common sight in homes around Britain, particularly within dining rooms nestled in a bed of pebbles and water. Contrastingly, herbs and lilies tend to find plenty of use and good growth conditions in the kitchen. It’s important to consider the positioning of the plants with regard to the amount of natural light or ventilation to ensure the room conditions will be suitable. Even a synthetic plant can dress up a reception area or bedroom with minimal fuss, accessorising an otherwise mundane space with the illusion of plant life!

Looking for professional advice on introducing plants in your home? Explore our accredited designer directory. Want to learn more about interior designing to hone your own design skills with professional training? Discover SBID membership.

To keep up to date with the latest design trends, events, developments and opportunities in the interior industry, subscribe to the Society of British & International Interior Design. We set the industry standards in the UK, championing competence and best practice for interior design services around the world. Interested in finding design experts with the SBID seal of approval? Browse our professional network here, or contact us today.

Cover image credits: Bocchetta Interiors – The Slipway

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The Value Of Networking For Interior Designers https://www.sbid.org/the-value-of-networking-for-interior-designers/ Tue, 30 Aug 2022 09:30:11 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=64341 The post The Value Of Networking For Interior Designers appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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As with many industries, networking is an essential part of interior design business. Meeting other experts who work in the same industry can be inspiring and good for your career, as well as positively impact the projects you produce. You should never turn away a chance to meet with other industry professionals or interior designers, particularly if you are interested in similar sectors, styles and ideas.

Make Industry Contacts

Interior design may be centred around the design, but ultimately, you will need to be able to make that design a reality to bring your ideas to life. The procurement and specification of a project involves multiple overlapping trades, industries, and suppliers including furniture retailers, realtors, general contractors, as well as skilled craftsmen.

When you need help with implementing a design idea, you should have access to the best people in the industry to consult with. They could help you source suitable materials, design lighting schemes, build bespoke furniture, install fixtures compliantly and much more. It’s essential to have these people in your contact list so you can reach out whenever you need their specialist advice to support in your project development. Our interior design supplier directory is a great place to start if you’re looking to build on your network of industry specialists with approved suppliers committed to excellence and best practice. 

 

Improve Your Networking

While what you know is important, who you know can be just as valuable in the interior design profession. It’s essential you take advantage of the wealth trade shows and networking events across the design industry. This active engagement will help you keep your finger on the pulse with the latest trends, products and innovations to help you discover new ideas for your designs. The Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID) work to create various networking opportunities with accredited trade suppliers, through delivering CPD training or hosting showroom talks, tours and other activities. This could help you make new connections to enhance your projects in a more relaxed and informal setting. 

Not sure how you can boost your networking? Before anything else, you need to perfect your pitch. If someone asks what you do or what you’re working on, what’s your answer? You should be able to tell them in one or two sentences to keep it concise and appealing. Learn more about elevator pitches if you want to really leverage this.

 

Leverage Online Media

It’s no surprise that social media has become a valuable tool to help you reach wider audiences in a cost-effective way. The rise in online media consumption directly impacts the way prospective clients might be searching for your services. You should be making full use of relevant social media channels to grow your online presence, including LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and more.

While it can be tempting to post everywhere – it’s important to understand your capabilities and consider which platforms are the best for your particular business. Think about where your ideal clients are and what content they are most likely to engage with! Social media is a wonderful way to reach new people, increase enquiries and showcase what you do in a visual and creative way.

 

Create Referral Programs

A referral program allows other people or companies to recommend you and your services. If you get the job, you can provide incentives through payment or some sort of reward that benefits both parties. This is an effective way to encourage people to help you out and build a pipeline for your business in a way that is mutually beneficial.

 

Join Organisations

Being a part of an organisation for your industry can be a quick way to connect with the wider professional community and meet other like minded interior designers or new suppliers to specify. Joining a professional body also brings a host of other industry benefits which you can utilise to promote your practice, access exclusive events, as well as support your career and business development. SBID’s designer directory acts as a valuable search engine to help those seeking interior design services find and discover proven professionals for their project needs!  

Networking is key in most businesses, but it is particularly important in the evolving world of interior design. Get started now by applying to join the Society of British and International Interior Design.

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What Can The Interior Design Body Do For You As A Designer? https://www.sbid.org/what-can-the-interior-design-institute-do-for-you-as-a-designer/ Tue, 23 Aug 2022 09:30:00 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=64332 The post What Can The Interior Design Body Do For You As A Designer? appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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The internationally recognised interior design body was developed to support freelance designers and studios in the industry, as well as set students and recent graduates on the pathway for a professional career. The Society for British & International Interior Design (SBID) offers essential guidance for interior designers to grow their careers or business, gain ongoing knowledge and enhance their industry profile.

 

SBID | What Do We Do?

As the leading professional accrediting body and representative of interior design standards across Britain and around the world, SBID aims to celebrate, support and promote interior designers, fit out specialists and manufacturers to sustain, develop and improve their business and career prospects. SBID connects its network of industry experts and trade specialists who are operating at the highest level of competence. The standards set by SBID help create a genuine pathway for trainees and current working professionals to further their careers, offering valuable education, networking and accreditation.

 

SBID | Why Join Us?

Joining SBID and receiving accreditation as an interior designer is vital for placing yourself at the front of your profession, distinguishing yourself when it comes to competitors. Making it onto our exclusive designer directory and showcasing your credentials will prove to both your peers and prospective clients that you are a verified, trusted and fully accredited interior designer who is more than capable of completing the project at hand. There are several essential benefits to achieving accreditation and joining SBID as a member. Below, we outline some of the reasons joining us could prove pivotal in your career trajectory!

Designer Directory

At SBID, our extensive designer directory database provides unique access to a whole world of accredited interior design professionals at your fingertips. It’s a vital source for finding proven and trained interior designers with a commitment to excellence and ongoing development. Joining the SBID professional network, achieving accreditation and featuring in our designer directory will showcase to clients that you are an interior designer worth investing in, and that you’re equipped with specialist skills and knowledge they need for their project.

 

Exclusive Benefits

When you become a member of SBID, you gain access to a unique professional community and a suite of industry benefits that can offer both education and career opportunities. From business prospects, media promotion and publishing, to exclusive member offers, professional resources and Directory listings, choosing membership with SBID will provide you with the benefits to assist you in expanding your reputation as a designer and increasing your visibility in the industry. Below are just some of the vital benefits SBID Designers receive:

  • Unique access to a CPD training programme for ongoing learning
  • Access to Interior Design Contracts for client engagements
  • A suite of exclusive rates for business services, from insurance to accounting solutions
  • Partner exclusive offers and opportunities, including trade show tickets and networking events
  • Free entry into the annual SBID International Design Awards programme
  • Promotional media and editorial publishing to showcase projects, services and expertise

 

Networking

At SBID, we’re proud to work in conjunction with many leading names in the industry and have access to a community of expert suppliers for your project specification and procurement. We help create networking and engagement opportunities to connect interior designers with the unique professional solutions they might require. Invites to member Breakfast Meetings, CPD seminars and other showroom activities help you establish and build key relationships within the interior design profession, while trade event ticket offers help interior designers access the leading and international events for design, such as Decorex and Maison & Objet.

SBID | Accreditation

Perhaps the most important reason for joining the Society for British and International Interior Design is to achieve accreditation status to prove to peers or potential clients that you’re a trusted expert in your industry, demonstrating the knowledge, commitment and expertise required to carry out best practices. Accreditation is the distinguishing factor between inexperienced interior designers and professionals operating at the highest level, signifying to your clientele that they will receive the upmost professional service and design advice, no matter the scope or specifics of their project.

With our unique membership structure, SBID will provide the necessary pathway to achieving accreditation, no matter what stage of your career you currently find yourself in, from emerging designers to seasoned professionals, we support members from humble beginnings to the reaching of their ultimate potential.

 

SBID | Accredited Interior Design CPD

The UK’s premier membership destination for interior design practitioners, at SBID, we aim to support and facilitate professional development of interior designers across the industry, from students to experienced sole traders, ensuring they are on the right pathway to success. We’re proud to offer an incredible range of professional interior design CPD courses, online training and learning opportunities that help you in furthering your skills and experience to maintain standards.

Interest & Enquiry

The first step on the pathway to accreditation is to complete the initial enquiry form with some basic information to express your interest in joining SBID membership. Once submitted, your enquiry will be reviewed by our Memberships team. They will be in touch to discuss your application and provide you with more detailed information about our membership levels and accreditation requirements, as well as promotional packages and industry benefits available.

 

Assessment & Verification

Once we understand your eligibility and confirm your appropriate pathway to accreditation, SBID will begin the process of carrying out the necessary checks required to verify your accreditation status. This is essential in ensuring the accurate credentials for your individual case, ensuring you receive the level of accreditation suited to you and your business.

 

Acknowledgement & Registration

Once you have completed your enquiry and the necessary checks have been carried out, you will then receive official confirmation of the review process. If successful, you will be set up as an SBID member and registered at the appropriate level. You’ll be added to the relevant trade list in our exclusive designer directory. As confirmation, you’ll also receive a digital certificate, alongside any relevant accreditation materials, logos, industry resources and membership benefits.

SBID | Get Accredited by the Leading Interior Design Organisation

SBID is a professional body for interior designers made up of a pool of British and international talent. Those who meet our criteria are welcome to join the society where accreditation is given to further careers and contribute to the success of the industry.

The most effective method to position your business as an interior design expert is to get accredited with The Society of British & International Interior Design. By getting accredited, you’ll be recognised as upholding the professional standards of the industry, joining a wealth of interior design practices across the UK and abroad that are now globally recognised as having the training, experience and dedication to the development of themselves and their field.

Becoming SBID Accredited provides the public with the comfort that the member has attained the highest status of assessed knowledge and experience in the UK. We embrace the creativity and evolving future of the interior design world, to nurture professional designers in the business and support experts through their careers. Contact us today.

Cover image credits: MDO Architects & Royal Haskoning DHV – International Data Centre

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Finding Your Specialism: As Explained By The UK Interior Design Body https://www.sbid.org/finding-your-specialism-as-explained-by-the-interior-design-body-uk/ Tue, 02 Aug 2022 09:30:08 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=63209 The post Finding Your Specialism: As Explained By The UK Interior Design Body appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

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A common misconception, from those outside of the world of design, is that an interior designer lends their skills to all areas of the profession, fitting a residential interior one day and a yacht the next. Yet this isn’t always the case. As with most creative disciplines and professional careers, designers and design practices usually focus their skillset on a specific area of industry. This results in a more refined specialism, benefiting their business and client base alike.

As highlighted by the Society of British & International Interior Design (SBID), there are 12 design specialisms across the residential and commercial contract sectors. Each of which require sector-specific knowledge and are accompanied by their own regulations and legal factors.

For a young creative just breaking into the industry, the many areas of interior design can seem daunting or overwhelming. It may feel like in order to succeed, you have to be certain of your career path from the ouset, knowing exactly which niche of design you will pursue.

However, this need not be a cause of stress or anxiety. Instead, the many different fields should be seen as opportunities to research, learn and explore to discover the area that most interests you.

This article will outline the main areas that interior designers may choose to specialise in, as well as the ways in which SBID is of use.

Public Space Design

As the name suggests, designing for public spaces design involves the shaping and conceptualising of the areas that we share as a society. From airports and libraries, to parks and pavements, public spaces are a cornerstone of our social environment. They are the areas we share, travel through and exist in everyday.

A designer of public spaces has to consider a multitude of factors, such as the durability of surfaces, volume of foot traffic, adequacy of lighting and the aesthetic appeal of an area. The role of a public space designer should never be understated, they define the environments we share, making areas such as universities, train stations and shopping centres safe and appealing.

 

Retail design

Unlike public space design which focuses mainly on shared, open environments, retail design is the area is based around the interiors of shops, galleries, arcades and showrooms. As a retail designer, your skillset will be varied, incorporating elements of interior design, visual merchandising, architecture and advertising in order to make an environment as appealing and accessible as possible.

It is the job of a retail designer to create recognisable storefront identities, on-brand decor and ergonomic spaces to showcase products. In addition to the aesthetic elements of retail design, elements such as ventilation, lighting and acoustic control must be considered in order to assist sales and maximise customer satisfaction.

 

Government Design

Government designers are pre-approved professionals responsible for the design of areas such as schools, council buildings and diplomatic spaces. Designers need to be highly efficient and experienced to work on government projects due to the scale of workload and strict deadlines.

The role of a government designer is varied, ranging from administration and project management, to material sourcing, budget-control and aftercare. Government designers must focus their work around functionality, durability and longevity, creating spaces that suit a range of demographics and locations.

 

Workplace Design

Often overlooked in the discussion of interior design, workplace design centres itself around the layout and operation of professional and office environments. Considering everything from behavioural patterns, productivity and workflow to ventilation, posture and lighting. This area of design is crucial in the maximisation of employee performance, as well as ensuring that workers are comfortable and safe throughout their working day.

Effective workplace design increases the quality of work, reduces sick days and leads to a more enjoyable employee experience. When designed properly, professional spaces exist to meet the needs of both clients and employees, reflecting the brand identity and ethos of a company.

 

Residential Design

Perhaps the most commonly understood design specialism, residential design incorporates the design of home interiors, whether they are brand new or re-designs of existing homes and structures. Residential designers usually work directly with the end user, accommodating their personal needs such as family requirements and individual taste.

As well as the consideration of elements such as natural light, materials and interior decor, residential designers must consider the livability of spaces and the specific needs of their client to create an interior that is beautiful and functional for user lifestyles.

 

Aeronautical Design

Focused on the design and fitting of aeroplane interiors, aeronautical design is one of the more specialist areas of interior design. Very few design practices operate within this area due to the need for highly-experienced individuals. All materials utilised in the design of plane interiors must meet rigorous safety standards and performance specifications. Aeronautical design work should not be undertaken without appropriate training, experience and insurance.

 

Marine Design

Marine design is an area primarily focused on the design of yachts and cruise liners. With a luxurious client base often associated with marine design, it requires a high level of proficiency and qualification.

Similarly to aeronautical design, marine designers must adhere to equally strict compliance and safety regulations in order to minimise the risk to passenger safety. Designers must ensure that all materials and products used are in line with the standards set out by European or international law. Careful consideration will be paid to material selection and weight.

 

Transport Design

The world of transport design is ever-changing due to the speed at which technologies and consumer needs develop. Focused on various transportation methods, such as cars, trains and trams, transport design plays an important role in the everyday experience of the population. Often integrated with public spaces, the performance, durability and visual identity of transportation must be considered thoroughly.

 

Hospitality Design

Hospitality design is a specialism of interior design concerned with the functionality and appearance of commercial spaces such as hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and casinos. Due to the sheer scale of the hospitality industry, designers play a crucial role in maximising the consumer experience within these spaces.

From the layout of a bar area, to the extravagant surroundings of a casino, hospitality designers consider all aspects of the design process. Taking into account everything from safety features to seat types, it is an incredibly varied role with similar regulatory requirements as public spaces.

 

Investor Refurbishment

Investor refurbishment involves the re-purposing or converting of a building to accommodate new requirements. For example, an investor may purchase a disused bank or factory with a plan to convert it to a restaurant or housing development. Massive alterations such as these need specialist knowledge and experience.

This area of interior design requires careful consideration, combining practical knowledge such as safety requirements and planning permission with managerial skills such as tight budget control and efficient material sourcing.

 

Healthcare and Wellness Design

This area of interior design focuses mainly on the needs of patients and their potential restrictions to ensure they receive the best quality of care possible. Be it the design of a dental practice, hospital, physiotherapy centre, care home or spa, healthcare and wellness design works to better the experience of patients and visitors within such spaces with accessibility, comfort and maintenance being key considerations.

 

Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Design

Kitchen, bedroom and bathroom (KBB) design is often considered alongside residential design. However, over the last few decades, the industry has seen a surge in product and consumer demand in this area -enough to warrant its own sector within interior design.

Kitchen and bathrooms requires particular attention to space planning and it’s own area of design knowledge including electric, plumbing, extraction, heating, windows and water flow rates. As a KBB designer, the primary focuses are often layout, functionality and ergonomics. As spaces that are used actively and regularly, it is important that interior designers consider every aspect to suit the user’s lifestyle and ensure all the fine details are addressed, from the hinge radius of doors, to the proximity of plug sockets and use of natural lighting.

How Can SBID Professional Membership Help?

As an interior designer, choosing an area to specialise is just one step in developing your career as you embark on a path of life-long learning as a professional interior designer. Whether you are a student or emerging designer entering the industry, joining the Society of British & International Interior Design could be a huge step in the right direction.

Among our services, we support careers in interior design, granting accreditation as the highest form of recognition and offering industry resources, CPD learning, business support and access to events to help you forge your way within the world of interior design, as well as elevate your business prospects. All of which are designed to help you network and become more knowledgeable within the specialist areas of interior design.

To join the SBID today, get in touch with us via email at admin@sbid.org or call us on 0207 738 9383.

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