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Design Unity with IIDA and Interior Design

IIDA HQ

Virtual programming dedicated to fostering a dialogue on the role of design in addressing social justice issues and the lack of diversity and representation within interior design and architecture.

IIDA and Interior Design launched DesignUnity on December 4, 2020, a virtual program dedicated to fostering open dialogue about the role of design in addressing social justice issues and the lack of diversity and representation within the field of interior design, architecture, and the design industry at large. Hosted by by Executive Vice President and CEO of IIDA Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, and Cindy Allen, editor in chief at Interior Design and chief creative officer of Sandow.

"In a profession that is predicated on maximizing and expanding the human experience, it is imperative that as an industry we fully recognize that equity, justice, humanity, and dignity are fundamental and indispensable to the practice of design. I’m looking forward to partnering with Cindy Allen and the Interior Design community to help facilitate these important conversations and drive change through the DesignUnity initiative."
— Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, Executive Vice President + CEO, IIDA


"Cheryl and I have been eager to develop an Interior Design and IIDA partnership bringing meaningful content and programming to the A+D community. We believe launching the DesignUnity series is the responsible first step in creating real and lasting change for a more inclusive, diverse, and optimistic future."
— Cindy Allen, Editor in Chief, Interior Design, Chief Creative Officer, Sandow

DesignUnity | Place + Power: The Intersection of Design and Equity

The inaugural DesignUnity virtual event included a one-on-one discussion with Cheryl Durst and Cindy Allen, panel discussion with industry leaders on diversity, advocacy, equity, and human resources, and DesignTV by SANDOW syndicated programming. The series and conversation will continue in 2021.


Thank you to our panelists:

  • George Bandy Jr., Consultant
  • Gabrielle Bullock, IIDA, FAIA, NOMA, Perkins and Will, Los Angeles
  • Karen Compton, A3k Consulting
  • Gisue Hariri, Hariri and Hariri Architecture
  • Dina Griffin, IIDA, FAIA, NOMA, Interactive Design Architects
  • Mike Johnson, IIDA, AIA, Perkins and Will, Washington D.C.
  • Krystal Lucero, IIDA, Edwards+Mulhausen
  • Carlos Martinez, FIIDA, AIA, Gensler
  • Mavis Wiggins, Assoc. IIDA, TPG Architecture

View the full recording of the entire DesignUnity programming: