Perspective Member Exclusive with Samantha Josaphat | IIDA

handle

handle

Apr 24, 2023 By Vasia Rigou

Perspective Member Exclusive with Samantha Josaphat

The Studio 397 founder spent a month researching cultural sustainability in Civita, Italy

By Vasia Rigou Apr 24, 2023

Published in Perspective

When Samantha Josaphat, NOMA, completed her architecture education, experience, and certification, she went to register with the African American Directory of Architects. That’s when she found out that she was the 397th African American Female Architect to achieve licensure in the USA. The importance of this number stuck with her. Thus Studio 397, a New York-based architecture and interior design studio she co-founded with multidisciplinary passive house designer, Luis Medina, was named to commemorate this. The husband-wife team has been working on creating thoughtful spaces—from residential to corporate and beyond—that help connect people, strengthen communities, and inspire better futures one project at a time.

Time: Afternoom
Trip to Rome, View of Roman Forum w/ our moms

Time: Afternoom
Trip to Rome, View of Roman Forum w/ our moms

Above Image: Time, Afternoon. Trip to Rome, View of Roman Forum w/ our moms. Image Courtesy of Samantha Josaphat

Her efforts in creating meaningful change extend beyond borders. Josaphat, who serves as president of the New York Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the City College of New York, was recently awarded, together with Medina, the Partners in Design Climate Action Fellowship from the Civita Institute in Italy. Established to increase awareness of our changing climate and encourage architects, planners, designers, artists, writers and other arts creative professionals to take action and contribute to a more sustainable societal response, the fellowship provided a unique opportunity for research on cultural sustainability.

“The town is literally eroding,” says Josaphat. “They have like a population of like 7 people that actually live there.” Accessed via a 360-meter (foot) pedestrian bridge from the nearby Bagnoregio village, Civita is known as “the dying town” due to the fact that the rock that supports it is subject to intense erosion by wind and water. Its collapse is slow but seemingly inevitable. Hence, it’s become a tourist destination—a kind of cultural scavenger hunt.

Having spent the month of March at the small hill town midway between Rome and Florence, the Studio 397 team examined ways to preserve the unique qualities of Civita and considered high performance retrofitting of local existing buildings with a focus on preservation, sustainability, and health. Looking into construction details, principles of passive house buildings, and locally available materials and strategies, they not only learned new methods, strategies, and techniques, but importantly gained insight into the past—a necessary step in order to look to the future.

Time: Sunset
View From bridge to get to Civita

Photo by Image courtesy of Samantha Josaphat

Time: Sunset
View From bridge to get to Civita

Photo by Image courtesy of Samantha Josaphat

Time: Evening
Chat with the students of the Pantheon Institute in Rome

Photo by Image courtesy of Samantha Josaphat

Time: Evening
Chat with the students of the Pantheon Institute in Rome

Photo by Image courtesy of Samantha Josaphat

Time: Morning
Hike to the other side of Civita

Photo by Image courtesy of Samantha Josaphat

Time: Morning
Hike to the other side of Civita

Photo by Image courtesy of Samantha Josaphat

Time: Morning
Opening the second entry door to our apartment that shares alleys with one of the best restaurants in Civita! It was amazing waking up to the culinary smells from down below, while listening to the soft dining music, birds, and church bells all from our kitchen window.

Photo by Image courtesy of Samantha Josaphat

Time: Morning
Opening the second entry door to our apartment that shares alleys with one of the best restaurants in Civita! It was amazing waking up to the culinary smells from down below, while listening to the soft dining music, birds, and church bells all from our kitchen window.

Photo by Image courtesy of Samantha Josaphat

“We're going to put together a guide that helps retrofit older existing buildings to make them more energy efficient,” Josaphat explains. “We'll be looking at the conditions of windows or how the roof meets the wall and see where there are gaps that can help really make a difference in how the building feels,” she adds. “As the climate starts to become more harsh and temperamental within a short period of time, we want to make sure the buildings can adapt properly to the changing climate.”

Civita may be called “the dying town” but at times, it doesn’t feel like it’s dying at all. Josaphat describes delicious restaurants, sophisticated wine tasting, and breathtaking strolls across town. There are medieval stone buildings, flowery alleys, steps, and balconies—all adding to the town’s beauty and unique character. The main piazza is the beating heart of the town: where locals sip espresso, tourists hang out, and donkeys race twice a year per a decades-long tradition.

As for Josaphat, she enjoyed the quiet. She describes listening to birds chirping and church bells ringing from their kitchen window, working while overlooking the neighbors getting ready for the spring season—cleaning off the garden and walkways—on the adjacent terrace, and shopping for fresh fruits and vegetables at the town’s market. “Italy has been wonderful—and Civita is magical! So many scenic views,” she says. “Every time we go to a bigger city I am excited to get back to this small ancient town—it sometimes feels like we have it all to ourselves.”

Visit the table of contents for more Perspective: Female Future

Featured Articles

View All Articles

5 Strategies for a More Sustainable Future

Our top 5 takeaways from the Converge Summit, Interface and IIDA’s annual gathering of designers and sustainability leaders

article

29 Gifts for Every Type of Design Lover You Know

In the inaugural IIDA gift guide, we share a spectrum of gifts for people who love design—from chic parents to history buffs to literature lovers

Insiders Peek: Chapter Leadership

IIDA Chapter leadership gather for regional strategy sessions across the U.S. to shape how we engage, impact, and succeed as a community

What I Wish I Learned in Design School

What does traditional design education get wrong, what it gets right, and how it can be reshaped to help emerging designers envision a better future

Ohio/Kentucky Student Conference

Join the Ohio/Kentucky Chapter for their first student conference hosted in Ohio—Learn more about how chapter leaders joined together to create a meaningful and impactful experience for students

article

Inside Student Mentoring

Take a peek behind the scenes of the IIDA Student Mentoring Program—students and mentors share the impact of this experience and the power of mentorship

article

Three Students on the Power of DYW

Inside the life-changing impact of Design Your World—opening doors, connecting with a diverse design community, and nurturing creativity

I Am IIDA—Join or Renew for 2025!

Be a part of design’s best professional network, and that our members are lifelong learners, leaders and creators who are shaping what’s next for the design industry

How Ursula Finley Found Design

Finley, who grew up across the globe, shares the series of events that led to her flourishing design career

article

Perspective State of Education

We check in with educators, mentors, and students for a look at where we are—and where we're going—in the pursuit of, and design for, education

article

Why Faye Toogood Calls Her Team ‘Misfits’

Toogood talks business lessons, being an outsider, and the inspiration behind her Squash collection with Poltrona Frau

Daniela Lopez on Crafting Heritage-Influenced Spaces

Lopez leans into the power of culture, color, and connection

article

Collective Design Special Series: The State of EDI

We convene industry leaders for a three-part miniseries exploring equity, diversity, and inclusion across the design industry

Funding a Greener Future

The Keilhauer Sustainable Design Education Fund reimburses IIDA members for their commitment to sustainable design

The Royal Hotel Pays Homage to its Storied Past

Rural Ontario meets British finery with a design that will transport you through the ages

article

IIDA Competitions Calendar

A guide to global recognition with IIDA’s 12 international design competitions

Sep 19, 2024 Competitions

article

Join us as we celebrate members’ latest professional achievements

What I Wish I Knew Before Opening My Design Studio

Brian Graham and Tobi Wray share the tips and tricks they wish they’d known before becoming business owners

Students Lead the Way: Hear from Nelson Scholarship Awardees

Autumn Clayton and Lauren Witter share how receiving the John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship has impacted their education and personal lives

Gilbert Broco Predicted His Career Path at Age Six

“I once envisioned a future as an architect,” Broco says, but “life had other plans”

Day in the Life with Jezarely Miguel

The artisanal rug company owner and 2024 Anna Hernandez/Luna Textiles Award winner takes us through her daily routine and shares advice for young designers

This Summer Program Is Shaping the Future of Design

Discover the highlights from this year’s Design Your World summer program, held in Chicago, St. Louis, and Miami

article

These Kids Might Transform the Design Industry

Design Your World St. Louis students share what they learned from the summer program and how they see the world—we’re betting that they’ll shape the future of the design profession

article

2024 Campus Center Award Winner: George Fox University

George Fox University students talk importance of having a campus center and detail their experiences working in their new program the STUDIO

article

Designing Effective Healthcare Environments

A trio of IIDA Healthcare Design Award jurors weigh in on what’s most important when designing healing spaces—and share advice for winning awards

Meet Nneka McGuire IIDA's Director of Content

From newsrooms to television writers’ rooms, IIDA HQ's newest addition is excited to build a more inclusive, equitable design industry and world

Cheryl Durst’s Guide to Great Leadership

IIDA’s beloved and longtime leader Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, shares her secrets and go-to tactics for successful leadership

article

Emeco’s Journey to a Sustainable Future

The sustainable furniture maker came back from the brink of collapse in the late ’90s and has gone on to flourish with sustainability and style in mind

5 Products with Wondrously Unexpected Designs

5 designs that seem to contradict the nature of their materials—and suggest that nothing is ever quite as it seems

Haworth’s Kurt Vander Schuur’s ‘Out of Control’ Hobby

Plus 4 other things to know about Haworth’s global brand director

article

What House of Hunt Can’t Live Without

Three key figures from Chicago design studio House of Hunt share their favorite things

Perspective: Business of Design

We dive into the business of design—from the people behind brands big and small to the things we do behind the scenes

Behind the Scenes of Haworth’s Bold Brand Transformation

Haworth was once known for office furniture. Things have changed—a lot. Global Brand Director Kurt Vander Schuur unpacks Haworth’s evolution and his history with the company.

2024 IIDA Chapter Award Winners

Get to know this year's award-winning IIDA Chapters—designing spaces and shaping the future.

Advocacy Leaders on the Move

IIDA VPs of Advocacy are building momentum, changing the profession for the better, and reminding everyone that ‘advocacy is sexy’

Advocacy Works: July 2024

From grassroots efforts to landmark legislation, find out how interior design advocacy works across the country

article

Transformative Storytelling and Experiential Design

At this year’s NeoCon, two key programs presented by IIDA underscore the potency of storytelling and immersive design when crafting the built environment

Meet Sara Ables, 2024 Member of the Year

Read about her unexpected journey to design, her advice for emerging designers, and her most beloved piece of furniture

article

Best of IIDA at NeoCon and Design Days 2024

From insightful panels to exciting celebrations, here are the key moments you might’ve missed

Celebrating Pride: LGBTQIA+ Designers Promoting Equity and Design Excellence

Kenneth Baker, FIIDA, and Rayman Boozer talk about their unique design perspectives and how design can foster social change

Meet 2024 Student of the Year Emily Hatcher

An Auburn University graduate and member of IIDA’s Alabama Chapter, Emily Hatcher believes ‘designers have one of the most powerful jobs in the world’

Navigating New Beginnings: 2024 Wilsonart Essay Competition Winner

Scott Ware, Student IIDA, wrote about how mentorship was invaluable as he dove into a new career in design

IIDA Celebrates AAPI Heritage Month Part 2

For the second part of our two-part AAPI Heritage Month series, we spoke with AAPI designers about their work, cultures, and design aesthetics

2024 IA Diversity in Design Scholarship Winners

This year’s IA Interior Architects scholarship recipients share their award-winning essays on the intersections of AI, diversity, and design

Spotlight on Jezarely Miguel, Founder of Matiz

Our 2024 Anna Hernandez/Luna Textiles Award winner created an artisanal rug company that pays homage to Mexican textile traditions

IIDA Sits Down with Mark Bryan from the Future Today Institute

IIDA CEO Cheryl Durst and Mark Bryan, an FTI senior foresight manager, discuss strategic foresight and how it can help us shape the future we want to see

Perspective Next Wave: How to X

How to craft hospitality environments that blend luxury and fun—and encourage guests to reconnect by disconnecting

IIDA Celebrates AAPI Heritage Month

For the first part of our two-part AAPI Heritage Month series, we spoke with AAPI designers about their work, cultures, and design aesthetics

Perspective Next Wave: High 5

5 designers and artists harnessing AI to elevate their creative work

article

Perspective Next Wave: NEXT

Mind-bending, eye-catching, unforgettable highlights from the 2024 Milan Design Week

article

Perspective Next Wave: Future Now

BMW Designworks is exploring advanced technology to craft cars with a human feel

article

Perspective Next Wave: Reimagined

A Chicago icon transforms into the Salt Shed

Perspective Next Wave: Talk Talk

Two generations of designers talk the evolution of design and the importance of learning from one another

article

Perspective Next Wave: A Day in the Life

Ana-Pinto Alexander, FIIDA, takes us through her role in healthcare design and her passion for mentorship

Collaborative Advocacy

Marci Merola, IIDA, shares insights on how the Consortium for Interior Design is driving industry recognition and regulation

2024 Student Design Competition Showcase

Presenting the student winner and honorable mention projects from this year's competition, which saw students designing a pediatric clinic in Baltimore

Perspective Next Wave: Shaping the Future with Sean McDowell

A visionary's path from Tokyo and Nike to innovative leadership at MillerKnoll

Perspective Next Wave: Design Impact

Senior living and memory care interior designer Emily Barna shares the value of pursuing certifications and registrations

article

Perspective Next Wave: Sean McDowell on Design Futurism

Hope, optimism, and tangible advice

2023 Catalyst Grant: Moving Chapters Forward

Chapters reach their goals and make lasting achievements with funding from our Catalyst Grant program

Missouri’s Advocacy Roadmap

A state-wide tour advocating for the rights of Missouri's interior designers

Nebraska Passes Historic Interior Design Legislation

How Legislative Bill 16 was signed into law

article

2024 Winter Advocacy Workshop

Advocacy leaders from across the country gathered to discuss where we’ve been and where we’re headed as interior designers

Advocacy Works: March 2024

Find out how advocacy works across the country—from bills that have passed and those still on the floor, to other efforts that support how we practice interior design.

Advocating for Change: Consortium for Interior Design

Three national organizations come together to advocate for the recognition of the interior design profession

2023 Educator Diversity Award: Dr. Asha Kutty

In recognition of an educator that is advancing racial and ethnic diversity in the interior design industry

Perspective: Next Wave

Directing our gaze forward, we explore a world of possibility in the question, "What comes next?"

Meet IIDA Senior Industry Sales Manager Adrienne Smith

Blending passion and purpose at IIDA

SHIFT 2024 Highlights

Students, educators, and design professionals come together for a memorable and educational experience

Elevating Leadership: 2024 Winter CLC

Redefining the essence of leadership in the design industry—insights from our winter Chapter Leadership Council

Kaelynn Reid: Design Futurist

Reid talks design and having meaningful conversations with her IIDA community

Guiding the Future: The Role of Mentorship in Interior Design

Underlining the importance of mentorship in nurturing the next generation of interior designers and building life-long career success—at IIDA and beyond

article

Collective D(esign): Season Five

What designers need to know now: See what's in store for the IIDA series as we kick off March 21

article

REVEL in Design at the Four Seasons

Raise your glass with IIDA at the 2024 black tie event celebrating 30 years of IIDA and the best in interior design while kicking off NeoCon

Celebrating Black History Month with Alexandria Davis

Illuminating the Path: The Impact of Black Creatives in Design

Meet IIDA Program Coordinator Sheena Lewis

Join us to uncover Lewis’ vision for inspiring future generations in the field of design through IIDA’s Design Your World program

Alexandria Davis: Bringing Design Back to Community

Our New York Chapter President shares her journey as an IIDA member, and what her goals are for the chapter

Black History Month Profile: Shauna Stallworth

Member Shauna Stallworth talks about the importance of creating opportunities for inclusiveness in our industry

Enhancing Design Education

Member Casey Martin, assistant professor of interior design at George Fox University talks design education, and what students need and want for the future

Stefanie Shunk: Design Innovation

Stefanie Shunk, FIIDA talks mentorship and how IIDA has helped shape her future as a designer and leader

Atelier Cho Thompson: Five Years Later

We check in with Christina Cho Yoo and Ming Thompson, five years after their Anna Hernandez/Luna Textiles award—where are they now, and what has changed?

article

Spotlight: Project Spotlight: North York Central Library

This award-winning library serves as a contemporary hub for its multicultural community of academics and residents

article

Perspective Sustainable Futures: Designing Healthier Interiors

Talk Talk: co-Innovators: Amy (Vaughn) Trojacek and Jessica Rosales create sustainable, healthy, and resilient spaces

article

Meet IIDA Sales and Sponsorship Coordinator Eva Jones

Exploring sales success, collaboration, and the future of IIDA

article

mA Leaders Breakfast Roadtrip

Reflections on the transformative power of IIDA Leaders Breakfasts from the event’s biggest fan: IIDA member Craig Shultz

Midori Shim: Designing for Experience

Shim shares her design perspective and how IIDA has empowered her to make a difference

Perspective Sustainable Futures: Renew

Dogpatch reimagined: From pastoral beginnings to a beacon of sustainable urban living

Dani (Sheley) Hann: The Power of Community

Dani (Sheley) Hann shares the impact IIDA has had on her life both professionally and personally

article

Perspective 2023: Editor's Picks

Celebrating a year of inspirational design and powerful voices

Leaders Breakfast 2023 Recap

Let’s take a look at all the wonderful memories from IIDA’s 2023 Leaders Breakfast events

Cheryl Durst: Welcome to 2024!

This year marks 30 years of IIDA—as we reflect on our remarkable journey together, we look forward with optimism and gratitude for what lies ahead

Perspective Sustainable Futures: Wanda Dalla Costa

Designer, architect, and educator Wanda Dalla Costa shares with us her practice and methodologies in co-designing buildings, interiors, and furniture with Indigenous elders

Dec 18, 2023 Perspective, Sustainability

Paige Hendrickson: A Student’s Journey with IIDA

Student member Paige Hendrickson shares the importance of student membership and how it has impacted her design journey

Dec 15, 2023 Students, Membership

Highlights from CLC Nationwide

IIDA’s Chapter Leadership Conferences (CLC) is hosted across five different regions across the country bringing leaders together for collaboration to enhance community member experiences

Dec 15, 2023 Chapters, Membership

Converge Action Summit 2023

Our top 5 takeaways from Interface and IIDA’s annual gathering of designers and sustainability leaders

Dec 15, 2023 Converge, Sustainability

2023 John J. Nelson Award Winners

IIDA is proud to announce our 2023 John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship recipients Autumn Clayton and Lauren Witter

Dec 06, 2023 Foundation

article

ADCP Podcast: The Interior Design Consortium

Founding member Ethan Lu of The Alliance of Design and Construction Professionals introduces the podcast featuring IIDA’s Marci Merola

2023 CIDQ Annual Meeting Highlights

Marci Merola gives us highlights from this years event, including AI, the future, and initiatives that impact interior design regulation and licensure

Dec 04, 2023 Advocacy

IIDA Advocacy in Action

IIDA Chapters focus their efforts of community building and spreading awareness around advocacy

Dec 04, 2023 Advocacy

Advocacy Works: December 2023

Empowering change in interior design through legislation and community engagement

Perspective Sustainable Futures: How to X

Eco-optimist David Bergman on how to make meaningful impacts on the future of sustainable design

Nov 20, 2023 Education, Sustainability

Chapter Spotlight: North, South, and Central Florida

Three Florida chapters create a formal alliance to ensure that advocacy work in their state remains focused and strategic

Nov 20, 2023 Chapters, Advocacy

Todd Heiser: Membership is Power

IIDA is a community connector—we have more power to shape the future together

Nov 20, 2023 Membership

Perspective Sustainable Futures: Day in the Life

Sustainable design leader Alvin Oei, IIDA shares his career journey and gives us a peak into his routine as senior design manager at Disney

Nov 15, 2023 Perspective, Sustainability

Perspective Sustainable Futures: Sustainability Responsibility

HKS’ Allison Smith, IIDA shares her inspirations, guilty pleasures, and she incorporates sustainability into her everyday life

Nov 07, 2023 Perspective, Sustainable design

Perspective Sustainable Futures: Scratch Pad

Blurring the lines between design brilliance and environmental consciousness, find out what’s next through things to see, read, or do this Fall

Nov 07, 2023 Perspective

Student Spotlight: Diksha Pilania

Meet the designer making interior design services accessible to everyone, especially those in underserved communities

Nov 06, 2023 Students, Student mentoring program

article

Perspective Sustainable Futures: NEXT

The future of sustainable design lies in the hands of emerging designers through new materials, methods, and innovations

Nov 06, 2023 Perspective, Sustainable design

REVEL 2024: Save the Date!

Make your plans now for the biggest night of the year June 9, 2024—we're celebrating 30 years of IIDA and we want you there!

Nov 01, 2023 Revel

Perspective Sustainable Futures: Allison Smith

Crafting tomorrow, Smith leads design innovation one eco-conscious decision at a time

Oct 23, 2023 Perspective, Sustainability

Collective D(esign): The Future

In season four we explore visions for the future—how we will grow and evolve our industry

Oct 23, 2023 Collective d(esign)

Perspective Sustainable Futures: Emerging

Meet IIDA Converge Sustainability Council members working to strengthen discussions of sustainability in the interiors industry

Ronnie Belizaire’s IIDA Journey

Ronnie Belizaire shares her member journey and her ambitions for her IIDA Board presidency

Oct 23, 2023 Membership

Perspective Sustainable Futures: High 5

The intersection of innovation and sustainable design

Oct 09, 2023 Perspective, Sustainable design

article

Perspective Sustainable Futures

Our newest issue of Perspective: Sustainable Futures is introduced by Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA

Oct 09, 2023 Perspective, Sustainability

Design Your World 2023: Shaping Tomorrow

The Design Your World program continues to shape and mold the bright future of design

Oct 09, 2023 Design your world

IIDA is The Future of Design

IIDA provides a roadmap to the future of design through membership, community, and YOU

Oct 03, 2023 Membership

Meet the 2023-2024 IIDA Foundation Trustees

Our new slate of trustees are dedicated to nurturing our design community through philanthropic endeavors

Sep 26, 2023 Foundation

article

Sustainability Responsibility: Lake|Flato Shifts Focus on What Matters

Lake|Flato’s director of design performance, Heather Gayle Holdridge, and design performance manager, Kate Sector, discuss sustainability and wellness strategies that help make the world a better place

Sep 26, 2023 Articles

Connecting on Purpose

IWBI and IIDA co-hosted award-winning designers and architects, real estate pioneers, and public health experts to explore the overarching impacts of place

Sep 26, 2023 Sustainability

2023 IIDA Chapter Award Winners

From supporting their members and building community, to celebrating member accomplishments and programming these chapter honorees embody the importance of community

Sep 25, 2023 Chapters, Awards

Meet Michelle Merry

IIDA HQ’s new Senior Manager of Corporate Membership Sales and IIDA Foundation on building bridges and fostering growth

Sep 25, 2023 Membership

article

IIDA Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Ana Pinto-Alexander, FIIDA on the Hispanic influence and contribution in design

Sep 12, 2023 Membership

Perspective Future of Work: Talk Talk

Jason Pugh and Yiselle Santos Rivera discuss the impact of JEDI programs

Sep 11, 2023 Perspective, Edi

2023 Student of the Year Espe Zivkovic

A recent graduate of Bellevue College's Interior Design program, IIDA Northern Pacific Chapter's student council president, and a student board leader on campus

Sep 11, 2023 Students, Awards

article

Perspective Future of Work: Next

Discover five products that are changing the way we view work spaces moving into the future of workplace design from the office to the home

Sep 11, 2023 Perspective

2023 Member of the Year Dani Sheley

Our 2023 Member of the Year shares her journey, IIDA story, and her vision for the future

Sep 05, 2023 Awards

Perspective Future of Work: Renew

Reborn under Ricardo Bofill's touch, La Fábrica merges industrial history with modern design

Aug 28, 2023 Perspective

article

Student Spotlight: Aubrey Schmidt

Studying in Kenya informs a collective approach to sustainability and permaculture

Aug 28, 2023 Students, Sustainable design

Perspective: Future of Work | Emerging

Nominated by our 2023 College of Fellows, Member of the Year, and Student of the Year, this group of designers are creating innovative ideas as we continue to shift workplace design

Aug 28, 2023 Perspective

Industry Roundtable: Future Possible

Design, time, and the shape of things to come with IIDA’s Futurist in Residence Mark Bryan

Healthcare Design Awards Spotlight: Crystal Clinic

At the intersection of healthcare and hospitality, expectations extend beyond meeting clinical needs—experience matters

Aug 14, 2023 Healthcare design

Spotlight on Sustainability

Insights from the Keilhauer Sustainable Design Education Fund recipients for a future framed by sustainability

Aug 14, 2023 Foundation, Sustainability

Campus Center Spotlight: George Fox University

2023 IIDA Campus Center Award Winners George Fox University share how they are supporting students and helping create a new wave of design

Aug 14, 2023 Campus centers, Students, Awards

Perspective Future of Work: A Day in the Life

Follow Naomi Mekonnen for an inside look at the Design Your World Program in Chicago

Aug 14, 2023 Perspective, Design your world

Perspective Future of Work: High 5

We take a look at new ways to think about the workplace

Aug 10, 2023 Perspective

Project Spotlight: Sordo Madaleno's Ling Ling

The 2023 IIDA Latin America Design Awards Best of Competition project is a Mexico City Asian-Mexican fusion restaurant, Ling Ling

Aug 08, 2023 Competitions

article

Empower Your IIDA Experience

Stay connected and informed: update your contact information today

Aug 08, 2023 Membership

article

Perspective Future of Work: How to X

Design for the future workplace with Micki Washington

Aug 01, 2023 Perspective

In Memoriam of John J. Nelson, Sr.

From humble beginnings to greatness: The life and legacy of John J. Nelson

Aug 01, 2023 Foundation

IIDA Maps Out the Future of Work

The findings from this year’s IIDA Industry Roundtable served up profound insights on how to design for the post-pandemic employee

Jul 31, 2023 Industry roundtable

article

Top of Mind: The Future Starts Now

The big questions we brought to Industry Roundtable, and a few emerging answers

Jul 31, 2023 Industry roundtable, Industry report

article

Congrats to Our Newest NCIDQ-Accredited Members

Join us in celebrating the latest IIDA members who are one step closer to becoming registered interior designers

Jul 26, 2023 Membership, Ncidq

Perspective Future of Work: Patricia Urquiola’s Favorite Things

Get to know the ingenious Spanish architect and designer through the experiences, objects, and people that surround her

Jul 25, 2023 Perspective

article

Advocacy Spotlight: An Iowa Victory

Lisa Schettler, IIDA celebrates the passing of a bill expanding the scope of work for registered interior designers in Iowa

Jul 17, 2023 Advocacy, Chapter spotlight

article

Beyond Regulation: Announcing the IIDA Advocacy Advisory Council

Meet the deep-thinkers who will steer big-picture advocacy for IIDA and its members

Jul 17, 2023 Advocacy

Chapter Spotlight: Northern and Southern California

These two chapters team up to achieve momentum on practice, EDI, and climate policy—hear from their Advocacy VPs on how it all works

Jul 17, 2023 Chapter spotlight, Advocacy

Advocacy Works July 2023

Find out how advocacy works across the country—from bills that have passed and those still on the floor, to other efforts that support how we practice interior design

Jul 17, 2023 Advocacy

article

Meet Matt Barusch of CIDQ

NCIDQ’s Matt Barusch talks advocacy, regulation, and the future of design

Jul 17, 2023 Advocacy

article

Designing A Way Forward: Amy Webb Uncovers the Future

Designing a Way forward: The Power of 'What If' as we prepare for the unpredictable

Jun 30, 2023 Neocon

article

IIDA Collective D(esign) Live: Beyond Futurism with Mark Bryan

Creating value from uncertainty, futurists teach us how to be a little wiser

Jun 30, 2023 Collective d(esign), Neocon

article

Past, Perfected: Problem Solving with Ray & Charles Eames

From furniture legs to infinite curiosity: nurturing creativity the Eames way

Jun 30, 2023 Industry roundtable

article

Meet IIDA's 2023 College of Fellows

This year's recipients of IIDA's highest honor—the College of Fellows

Jun 30, 2023 Membership

article

Perspective Future of Work: Scratch Pad

Where to go, what to read, and what to be inspired by this summer and early fall

Jun 29, 2023 Perspective

Redefining Aging: Pride Place

Seattle-based Pride Place is the state's first affordable and affirming LGBTQ senior housing community

Jun 23, 2023 Articles, Lgbtq, Senior living

article

Perspective: Future of Work Everywhere

Cheryl S. Durst introduces the next issue of Perspective: The Future of Work Everywhere

Jun 20, 2023 Future of work, Perspective

article

Best of IIDA at NeoCon 2023

We've rounded up the best of what you may have missed from IIDA at NeoCon

Jun 20, 2023 Neocon, Industry events, Programming

Highlights from the 2023 Annual Meeting

Recognizing exceptionalism within our Association, the profession, and the design community

Jun 20, 2023 Neocon

Perspective Future of Work: Patricia Urquiola

The influential Spanish architect, designer, and art director opens up about her creativity, philosophy, and vision for the future

Jun 20, 2023 Perspective, Women in design, Workplace design

Design with Pride

Architecture and design projects that set new standards for the global LGBTQ+ community

Jun 05, 2023 Pride, Lgbtq+

Cody Czmyr, Director of Member Services

A bold new vision for the future of IIDA membership

Jun 05, 2023 Membership

Deem Symposium: Looking Ahead

Designing a more inclusive and equitable future

Jun 05, 2023 Articles, Industry events

Maya Bird-Murphy: Mobile Makers

Our 2023 Anna Hernandez/Luna Textiles Award recipient builds design equity through community involvement and youth programming

Jun 05, 2023 Foundation

article

Perspective Future Female: NEXT

Meet five furniture and architecture firms led and made by women

May 22, 2023 Perspective

Perspective Future Female: Renew

The Banya, a 1920’s bank-turned-bathhouse is rich in art deco design and original features

May 18, 2023 Renew, Perspective, Hospitality design

Design as Communication: 2023 Wilsonart Essay Winner

Emily Roberts, Student IIDA on learning about thinking of interior design as a way to communicate to and serve the end-user

May 17, 2023 Student mentoring program, Wilsonart essay

article

IIDA Celebrates AAPI Heritage Month

Members Alvin Oei and Angie Lee discuss the importance of AAPI Month in design

May 16, 2023 Perspective, Edi, Aapi

Introducing IIDA at WestEdge Design Fair

Join us in L.A. as we name the best in product and booth design at the WestEdge Design Fair

May 08, 2023 Competitions

Perspective Future Female: Emerging

Nominated by their peers, these emerging designers are women who are helping shape the future of our industry

May 08, 2023 Perspective, Women in design

article

Perspective Future Female: A Day in the Life

A peek into the Day in the Life of emerging interior designer Brianna Hunter who is taking the workforce by storm

May 08, 2023 Perspective

2023 Student Design Competition Showcase

Presenting the student winner and honorable mention projects from this years competition, which saw students designing an assisted living facility for aging residents

May 05, 2023 Students, Competitions

article

IIDA Celebrates AAPI Heritage Month

Members Karen Muraoka, and Midori Shim, discuss the importance of AAPI Heritage Month in design

May 03, 2023 Perspective

Perspective Member Exclusive with Samantha Josaphat

The Studio 397 founder spent a month researching cultural sustainability in Civita, Italy

Apr 24, 2023 Perspective, Women in design

article

2023 Expo Chicago Highlights

The fair brings the best of the art world to Chicago

Apr 20, 2023 Articles

article

Perspective Future Female: Talk Talk

Members Sarah McGarry and Rene Stremel talk founding a design studio of their own

Apr 20, 2023 Talk talk, Perspective, Women in design

Design Your World Book Launch

The Design Your World book celebrates the power of early design education

Apr 10, 2023 Design your world

article

Perspective Future Female: High 5

5 women in design creating a future that is empowered, sustainable, and innovative

Apr 04, 2023 Perspective, Women in design

Perspective Future Female: How to X

Founding an inspiring sustainable woman-owned business with Yvonne Hung of Otelier

Apr 04, 2023 How to x, Women in design

article

Perspective Future Female: Samantha Josaphat

On designing meaningful spaces that foster human connection, the power of letting go, and the upsides of being an underdog

Apr 03, 2023 Perspective, Women in design

article

Collective D(esign) | Future Female: Small and Mighty

Three female founders gather in conversation in the webinar’s 2023 season premiere

Apr 03, 2023 Collective d(esign)

Advocacy Symposium: Impacting Spacemaking

IIDA Advocacy leaders gather to strategize how to break boundaries and build a better world

Mar 27, 2023 Advocacy symposium, Advocacy

article

What is Deregulation?

IIDA Director of Advocacy Marci Merola explains what deregulation means, and what it looks like in states with interior design laws

Mar 27, 2023 Advocacy

Advocacy Works March 2023

Find out how advocacy works across the country—from bills that have passed and those still on the floor, to other efforts that support how we practice interior design

Mar 27, 2023 Advocacy

article

Advocacy Spotlight: Laura Stroik, IIDA

What happens after the bill is signed: from new state board roles to shifting priorities

Mar 27, 2023 Advocacy

article

2023 Diversity in Design Winners

IA Interior Architects scholarship recipients represent diverse voices and new perspectives and address efforts for an equitable and sustainable future

Mar 17, 2023 Foundation

2022 John J. Nelson Award Winners

Student members Kambria Lauderdale and Brianna Toussaint share their stories

Mar 15, 2023 Foundation, John j. nelson legacy scholarship

Designing for Senior Living

Samantha Belfoure, IIDA and Hillary DeGroff, IIDA of Perkins Eastman discuss the importance of meaningful spaces in senior living facilities

Mar 13, 2023 Interior design

article

Diversity in Design: Tina Patel

Empowering students to design with empathy as a pathway to equitable and inclusive design

Mar 13, 2023 Foundation, Educators, Diversity, Educator diversity award

article

Perspective Future Female: Scratch Pad

What to read, watch, and experience this spring with a focus on women in art and design

Mar 08, 2023 Perspective, Scratch pad

Perspective: Future Female

Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA introduces this year's first issue of Perspective: Female Future

Mar 08, 2023 Perspective, Women in design, Cheryl durst

article

2023 SHIFT Student Conference

Lead. Inspire. Grow. Unite.

Feb 28, 2023 Students

article

Project Spotlight: Surf Simply

Meet IIDA’s Latin America Design Award Winner: A surf camp with a green edge

Feb 27, 2023 Competitions, Project spotlight

Campus Center Spotlight: Howard University

Howard University campus leaders and students share their experience and goals as one of IIDA’s first HBCU Campus Centers.

Feb 23, 2023 Campus centers

OFS Student Roundtable

Tennessee State students gathered for a panel led by IIDA EVP and CEO, Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, to explore building careers in design.

Feb 21, 2023 Students

Chapter Spotlight: IIDA Alabama Student Day

IIDA Alabama Chapter hosts Student Day with keynote speaker Cheryl S Durst, Hon. FIIDA

Feb 13, 2023 Chapters, Chapter spotlight

Black Designers to Know

Designers That are Leading the Way

Feb 13, 2023 Black history month

article

Inside IIDA Student Mentoring

Megan Burns and Kaitlin Salisbury on the mentorship experience from the mentor and mentee perspectives.

Feb 13, 2023 Student mentoring program

article

We Make Space: Renew today!

IIDA is made of creatives, leaders, and changemakers and We Make Space, to understand and uplift humanity

Jan 26, 2023 Iida hq, Membership

article

Leaders Breakfast 2022 Recap

Looking back at all the wonderful moments from IIDA’s 2022 Leaders Breakfast

Jan 13, 2023 Leaders breakfast

Chapter Spotlight: IIDA Ohio/Kentucky

Leading the way to becoming a true advocate for diversity

Jan 13, 2023 Chapters

article

Join us in celebrating design professionals who have achieved growth in the industry through their talent and dedication.

Jan 13, 2023 Members

2023 IIDA Emeritus Members

Introducing our inaugural IIDA Emeritus members

Jan 13, 2023 Membership

article

Perspective 2022: Looking Back

Highlights from 2022 Perspective Magazines: State of Being, Changemakers, and Moving UP

Jan 03, 2023 Articles

Looking to the Future, Collectively

IIDA's signature conversation series Collective D(esign) returns for a fourth season

Jan 03, 2023 Programs, Collective d(esign)

Converge: Conversations on Sustainability

Exploring the future of sustainable innovation during a time of great change

Jan 03, 2023 Programs, Converge

article

Perspective Moving UP: Talk Talk

The Big Picture with Cheryl Durst: The future of design education

Dec 20, 2022 Perspective, The big picture with cheryl durst

article

Happy Holidays from IIDA

We hope you enjoy time with family, friends, and loved ones! To ensure IIDA staff may do the same, IIDA Headquarters will be closed from Dec 23-Jan 2

Dec 20, 2022 Iida hq

article

Best of Design Miami 2022

Saturated colors, nature-based design, and natural textures abound

Dec 20, 2022 Articles, Industry events

Perspective Moving UP: NEXT

Meet 5 design firms leading the way in sustainability

Dec 19, 2022 Perspective

article

Perspective Moving UP: Emerging

Nominated by IIDA members, this group of designers are emerging as design leaders and are helping shape the future of our industry

Dec 19, 2022 Perspective, Emerging

25 Years of Industry Roundtable

IIDA looks back at 25 Years of Industry Roundtable and its legacy

Dec 14, 2022 Industry roundtable

Perspective Moving UP: Julia Watson on Sustainable Futures

Centering indigenous technologies in our designs for the future

Dec 06, 2022 Perspective, Women in design, Sustainability

Will Ching: 30 Years of Legacy

IIDA Celebrates 30 Years of the Will Ching Design Competition

Dec 01, 2022 Articles, Competitions

Perspective Moving UP: How to X

Think like a futurist: David Staley discusses applicable tools designers can use today

Dec 01, 2022 Perspective, Futurism

Advocacy Works: 2022 in Review

Find out how advocacy works across the country—from bills that have passed and those still on the floor, to other efforts that support how we practice interior design

Nov 21, 2022 Advocacy

article

CIDQ: Inspiration for the Future

IIDA’s Director of Advocacy Marci Merola share an overview of the 2022 CIDQ Annual Meeting

Nov 17, 2022 Advocacy

article

IIDA and ASID Celebrate HB 4715

Association leaders, legislators, and volunteers celebrate their achievement in passing the landmark bill

Nov 17, 2022 Advocacy

Perspective Moving UP: Scratch Pad

What to read, watch, experience, and where to go this winter

Nov 07, 2022 Perspective, Scratch pad

Perspective Moving UP: Dr. Jennifer Languell and Babcock Ranch

Durability and resiliency are key to designing a sustainable built environment capable of enduring a rapidly changing climate

Nov 07, 2022 Perspective, Sustainability

article

Perspective Moving UP: A Day in the Life

Step into a Day in the Life of business owner Christie Porter as she leads her design firm and non-profit.

Nov 03, 2022 Perspective

article

National Black Theatre with Little Wing Lee

Proud history; bright future: An institution that elevates the black experience.

Oct 25, 2022 Perspective

article

Collective D(esign): Season Three Dialogues

With the third iteration of IIDA’s Collective D(esign) series, we brought together thought leaders for design-focused dialogues addressing our rapidly changing world.

Oct 25, 2022 Ceus

article

Perspective Moving UP: Little Wing Lee

Rooted in the past, focused on the future with a clear vision of a stronger and more connected design community

Oct 20, 2022 Perspective

Perspective Moving UP: High 5

Five new ways to consider moving into the future as designers: collectively, with nature, through climate change, and emphasizing care and social services

Oct 20, 2022 Perspective, High 5

article

Perspective: Moving UP

Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, introduces Perspective: Moving UP, an issue that looks fearlessly into the future

Oct 20, 2022 Perspective

Design Your World: Building Interior Designers of Tomorrow

Participating organizers and educators reflect on the 2023 session experience and positive impact in both Chicago and Miami

Oct 10, 2022 Design your world

Meet Cindy Dampier, IIDA’s Chief Marketing Officer

A lifelong writer with an eye for design and storytelling, we welcome a new face to the IIDA HQ team

Oct 10, 2022 Iida hq

article

Marivel Ansera: Design Through a Latina Lens

A bold reflection on the experience of being a Chicana woman in our industry, and how identity and culture shape her vision

Oct 06, 2022 Edi, Members

Perspective: Changemakers | How To X

Chicago-based designer, maker, educator, and all-around visionary creative, Norman Teague on finding one's purpose.

Sep 27, 2022 Perspective, How to x

Perspective: Changemakers | Ukraine-Based YOD Group

Designers Volodymyr Nepiyvoda and Dmytro Bonesko discuss the challenges faced during the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, and where they find resiliency and inspiration

Sep 27, 2022 Perspective, International design

article

Perspective: Changemakers | Talk Talk

Can design really change the world? Find out in this conversation between Tanner Woodford and Quilen Blackwell

Sep 12, 2022 Talk talk, Perspective

article

We Make Space: Join or Renew

IIDA is made of creatives, leaders, and changemakers and We Make Space, to understand and uplift humanity

Sep 12, 2022 Iida hq, Membership

Hailey Fuller, IIDA 2022 Student of the Year

A recent graduate of Auburn University’s CIDA-accredited Interior Design program, a LEED Green Associate, and a campus center leader

Sep 08, 2022 Awards

Member Spotlight: Chesenia Burgos, IIDA

Finding joy in her work, and meaning in representation, IIDA PA/NJ/DE’s first Hispanic Chapter President shares her achievements and goals for IIDA and her design work

Sep 08, 2022 Members, Diversity

article

Meet 2022 Member of the Year: Alexandra Bonner, IIDA

A leader committed to the industry and community, she contributes an impactful legacy for the next generation.

Aug 24, 2022 Honors, Members

article

Design Your World 2022

In its second year, the program grew to two cities expanding accessibility and providing teens an entry point to careers in design.

Aug 24, 2022 Design your world, Edi, Programs

Perspective: Changemakers | Emerging

Recent recipients of diversity-promoting scholarships share why these are essential initiatives in shaping their futures, and impacting the industry

Aug 23, 2022 Perspective

Legislation Spotlight: Illinois

Recent legislation in Illinois allows professional interior designers permitting privileges and recognizes interior design as a distinct profession

Aug 15, 2022 Advocacy

Advocacy Works August 2022

Hear how advocacy works across the country—from bills that have passed, are still on the floor, and other efforts that support how we practice interior design

Aug 10, 2022 Advocacy, Chapters

IIDA Equity Roundtable at NeoCon 2022

Looking at equity through the lens of education, leadership, as well as community and industry partnerships

Aug 10, 2022 Neocon, Edi, Equity council

Meet Stacey Crumbaker, IIDA’s National VP of Advocacy

With increased engagement from the passage of several interior design laws, this role will unify efforts on a national level

Aug 10, 2022 Advocacy, Members

article

2022 Student Design Competition Showcase

Presenting the student winner and honorable mention projects from this years competition, which saw students designing a behavioral health clinic

Aug 05, 2022 Students, Competitions

article

Leader’s Breakfast 2022 Series

The beloved IIDA Leaders Breakfast with international benefactor MillerKnoll is back in person for the 2022 season across eight cities

Jul 27, 2022 Leaders breakfast

IIDA Annual Meeting Highlights

Highlights from our annual meeting, from awardees to new board members—we'e got you covered on what you missed

Jul 27, 2022 Neocon

Perspective: Changemakers | High 5

Five projects that create change—by rethinking the boundaries of what it can mean to make space

Jul 27, 2022 High 5, Perspective

Perspective: Changemakers | Renew

How can we can we change a used space while maintaining the integrity of the structure and design of the building

Jul 27, 2022 Renew, Perspective

2022 Educator of the Year | Igor Siddiqui, IIDA

Siddiqui encourages students to explore unconventional ways to think about design, craft, and how communities engage with materials and interiors.

Jul 19, 2022 Honors, Education, Members

article

Perspective: Changemakers | Member Picks

IIDA Chapter presidents share their current favorite books, movies, tv, music, art, and guilty pleasures.

Jul 19, 2022 Member pics

Perspective: Changemakers | Scratch Pad

An exhibition that actively responds to the climate crisis, a visionary designer’s life and career journey, a taste of Scandinavia, a book that embraces architecture’s anthropomorphic qualities, and more.

Jul 19, 2022 Perspective, Scratch pad

Perspective: Changemakers

Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, introduces "Perspective: Changemakers," the people reinventing the way that we think, design, and live.

Jul 19, 2022 Perspective

Student Charette: Design Revolution

Rethinking and redefining the workplace for hybrid work, the Student Charette brings together students for a collaborative experience

Jul 01, 2022 Students, Neocon

Perspective: State of Being | Renew

Fantasy Babble Factory: a redesigned former soap-making factory site becomes a museum, cafe, and gallery space

Jul 01, 2022 Perspective

article

Mentoring is for Everyone | 2022 Wilsonart Essay Winner

2022 Wilsonart Essay winner Sally Birkett Seston, Student IIDA on the merits of mentorship—at any stage of life.

Jul 01, 2022 Foundation

Perspective: State of Being | Next

What's next in workplace-a look at some of the latest in design from the floors of 2022 NeoCon in Chicago.

Jun 21, 2022 Perspective

NeoCon Keynote | Cheryl Durst with Nick Cave and Bob Faust

Art as Activism: Blurring the lines between art and design

Jun 21, 2022 Neocon

article

Best of IIDA at NeoCon 2022

IIDA celebrated changemakers at NeoCon through engaging conversations, celebrations, and an excuse to gather

Jun 21, 2022 Neocon

IIDA Spotlights Chicago’s Upcoming LGBTQ+ Clinic

In honor of Pride Month IIDA takes a look at how design reshapes the communities it serves. Case in point: Howard Brown Health, a new clinic that will improve healthcare access for LGBTQ+ community.

Jun 15, 2022 Healthcare design

Introducing the Skill Set with Cheryl Durst Podcast

Join host Cheryl S. Durst as she explores talent, creativity, ability, and the not-so apparent skills that power success.

Jun 14, 2022 Skill set with cheryl

Perspective: State of Being | Talk Talk Part 2

Sarah Clair, IIDA, and Rolando Mendoza continue their discussion on embracing new technologies—the Metaverse, extended reality, and the future of design

Jun 06, 2022 Perspective, Talk talk

Perspective: State of Being | Quick-Fire with Barbara Bouza

The President of Walt Disney Imagineering answers 10+1 quick-fire questions

Jun 01, 2022 Perspective

IIDA Fellows Karen Muraoka and Joey Shimoda on Representation

We talk to Asian American designers about representation in the design industry, and how we can create a workspace inclusive to all.

May 26, 2022 Members

article

Perspective: State of Being | Thinking Big with Barbara Bouza

The President of Walt Disney Imagineering on keeping her calm, creating authentic, impactful experiences, and using challenges as the fuel that powers greatness.

May 23, 2022 Perspective

article

IIDA Celebrates 25 Years with Cheryl Durst

25 things to know about IIDA EVP and CEO as we celebrate her 25th anniversary at IIDA, and mark a quarter-century of service to the interior design industry

May 18, 2022 Interior design, Cheryl s. durst

article

Meet Melissa Cook, IIDA Student Engagement Manager

“I always think about what I wish I would have known or the advice I wish I had gotten in college—I want to be that person for our students”

May 18, 2022 Students, Membership

article

IIDA at NeoCon 2022 | We Make Space

Join IIDA this June as we return to our in-person annual meeting and black-tie gala, celebrate our member achievements, host inspirational discussions, and keynote speakers Nick Cave, and Bob Faust.

May 17, 2022 Neocon

article

IIDA and urban Collaborate to #BeMoreInclusive

Learn about our collaboration with the international recruitment specialist urban, bringing their inclusivity-driven hiring strategies stateside.

May 17, 2022 Talent collective

article

Perspective: State of Being | Member Picks

IIDA Chapter presidents share their current favorite books, movies, tv, music, art, and guilty pleasures.

May 10, 2022 Member pics

The Big Picture with Cheryl Durst: Futurism

Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA talks with design futurist Mark Bryan about rapid changes in our world.

May 09, 2022 The big picture with cheryl durst

Perspective: State of Being | How To X

Look to the future: rethinking space, workplace culture, and the rules of design using cutting-edge technologies.

May 09, 2022 Perspective

Perspective: State of Being | Scratch Pad

What to read, watch, experience, and where to go in May.

May 09, 2022 Scratch pad

article

Spring Advocacy Brief: 2022

Our IIDA Advocacy teams work to advance our profession through voluntary registration, and legal recognitions—catch up with the latest news from our chapters

Apr 25, 2022 Advocacy

article

Wisconsin Passes Historic Legislation

Wisconsin Senate Bill 344 was signed into law on March 18, 2022 providing stamp and seal provisions for interior designers

Apr 25, 2022 Advocacy

After the Bill: North Carolina

North Carolina Advocacy VP Chelsea Harrell shares the work that follows passing stamp and seal legislation and refocusing on interior designer registration

Apr 25, 2022 Advocacy

Perspective: State of Being

Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, introduces "Perspective: State of Being" the first edition of our members-only digital magazine with insights on navigating a new world.

Apr 12, 2022 Perspective

article

Perspective: State of Being | Emerging

Nominated by their colleagues, this group of designers are emerging as leaders in their own right, and are poised to shape the future of our industry.

Apr 12, 2022 Perspective, Emerging

article

Perspective: State of Being | High 5

We look at five innovative ideas that harness states of being to adapt to a changing world

Apr 12, 2022 Perspective, High 5

article

Perspective: State of Being | Talk Talk Part One

Sarah Clair, IIDA, and Rolando Mendoza talk embracing disruption, collaboration, and ultimately designing for the future.

Apr 12, 2022 Perspective, Talk talk

article

Meet Marci Merola, IIDA Director of Advocacy

Marci comes to IIDA with over a decade of grassroots activism leading to legislative successes, and a passion for professions that transform communities and lives.

Mar 28, 2022 Iida hq, Advocacy

Women Lead Design: Women’s History Month 2022 Part 3

Jennifer Graham, FIIDA, Catherine Heath, FIIDA, and Karen Muraoka, FIIDA discuss groundedness, empowerment, and what it means to be a woman in design.

Mar 28, 2022 Women lead design

Chapter Spotlight: IIDA Northern Pacific

Vancouver-based designer Sara Namdarian and IIDA NPC President Jessica Cody sit down to talk about working together to build a new city center.

Mar 28, 2022 Chapter spotlight, Membership

Best of IIDA Competitions: Submit Your Best

Celebrate incredible design—earn international recognition for your work, and be honored for your innovative and extraordinary design—we’ve rounded up some of our favorite winners from 2021.

Mar 28, 2022 Competitions

article

Collective D(esign) | Women Lead Design: New Changemakers

In response to our rapidly changing world, IIDA brings you a design-focused dialogue on the effects of a global crisis. Join us for these important community discussions.

Mar 15, 2022 Collective d(esign)

SFC Shangying Cinema Luxe | Best of Competition

2021 Global Excellence Awards winner Pulse on Partnership’s Best of Competition project design is an ode to cinema and music.

Mar 14, 2022 Competitions

article

Member Spotlight: Viveca Bissonnette, FIIDA

We hear from 2022-2023 Chair of the College of Fellows Viveca Bissonnette, FIIDA, about her background, vision, and inspirations

Mar 11, 2022 Members

Women Lead Design: Women’s History Month 2022 Part 2

Ronnie Belizaire, FIIDA, Ana Pinto-Alexander, FIIDA, and Kay Sargent, FIIDA, FASID, share their insights, experiences, and pathways for the future of design.

Mar 11, 2022 Women lead design

article

IR24: IIDA Industry Roundtable Returns

Industry leaders and thinkers share conversation, community, strategy, and goal setting to weigh in on the state of the industry—and what’s in store for the future.

Feb 24, 2022 Industry roundtable

Women Lead Design: Women’s History Month 2022

Imani Day, Megan Dobstaff, IIDA, and Tiara Hughes share their experiences in being a woman in the design industry.

Feb 24, 2022 Women lead design, Edi

article

Creative Voices: Honoring Black History Month

Alexandra Bonner, IIDA, Krystal Lucero, IIDA, Robina Shepherd, Associate IIDA, and Leyden Lewis discuss what it means to create an EDI focused workplace.

Feb 15, 2022 Diversity, Black history month

article

Diversity in Design: Milagros Zingoni Phielipp

IIDA 2021 Educator Diversity Award awardee Milagros Zingoni Phielipp instills a sense of global and cultural empathy in her students, her designs, and her curriculum.

Feb 14, 2022 Diversity, Awards, Iida foundation

article

Behind SoFi Stadium with Amanda Trimble of HKS

Amanda Trimble, IIDA, of HKS talks about her work designing Super Bowl LVI venue SoFi Stadium, and using region, fans, and culture to create an incredible fan experience.

Feb 11, 2022 Member projects

article

Student Members at TX/OK's IIDA SHIFT 2022

Hear from IIDA Student members Shelby Alexander, Veronica Aziz, and Mikayla Adkins about their experiences at and takeaways from the IIDA Texas Oklahoma's annual student conference.

Feb 10, 2022 Chapters, Students, Career

article

Member Spotlight: Lakiesha Stanley

We talk healthcare-informed design, the impact of designing from a place of empathy, and the importance of engaging multicultural design ideals.

Jan 31, 2022 Members

article

Cheryl Durst Welcome to 2022

IIDA Executive Vice President and CEO, Cheryl Durst welcomes you to 2022—looking forward to a year dedicated to being changemakers.

Jan 18, 2022 Cheryl durst

High 5: Design Miami

Highlights from Design Miami including limited edition pieces, virtual tours, programming covering equity, design as social practice, and more.

Jan 04, 2022 Articles

article

Building Foundations Through Mentorship

Zane Land, Ind. IIDA shares her experiences as a mentor, and the importance of mentoring young designers and the value of exposing students to a range of careers in design.

Jan 04, 2022 Student mentoring program

article

Leading With Empathy | Creating a Legacy in Your Community

Mari Ansera, IIDA was named the 2021 Member of the Year for her dedication to and passion for interior design—an exceptional advocate for the industry, and asset to IIDA through her commitment to contributing to the profession.

Dec 14, 2021 Members, Honors

article

Sustainability in Design | Converge 2021

The third annual Interface + IIDA Converge Summit brought together designers, students, and industry leaders to explore innovative sustainability and wellness solutions in design.

Dec 14, 2021 Industry events, Ceus, Academy

Talent Collective | Culture as Foundation

Hear from EDI leaders from across the industry examining how to collectively implement initiatives in our workplaces and drive changes both big and small.

Dec 10, 2021 Talent collective

article

Creating Change: IIDA Advocacy Workshop

Advocacy VPs and volunteers from across the U.S. gather to talk legislative wins, strategy, and learn how to build community in four CEU-accredited sessions.

Nov 30, 2021 Advocacy, Ceu

article

Wisconsin Eyes Stamp and Seal

Six years in the making, SB344 in Wisconsin provides registered interior designers in Wisconsin stamp and seal provisions as soon as 2022.

Nov 30, 2021 Advocacy

article

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: The Conversation Continued

Christina Peter, Co-Chair of DEI for Southern California continues the conversation on starting DEI initiatives at the chapter level, and collaborating with other chapters to create consistent messaging.

Nov 30, 2021 Advocacy, Dei

article

Advocacy Brief | Winter 2021

Catch up on what our IIDA Advocacy chapter teams have been doing—bills that have passed and those still on the floor for votes.

Nov 29, 2021 Advocacy

article

Diverse Voices and Viewpoints: Rethinking Design Education

Olivier Vallerand, Assoc. IIDA was named the 2021 Educator of the Year for guiding students to consider how design movements emerge from social, economic, and political contexts through exposure to marginalized communities and voices.

Nov 15, 2021 Education, Awards

From IIDA Student to Associate Membership

As students transition to the workforce, IIDA membership can play an important role in their success. Recent grad Allie Bierman and 22-year IIDA member and International Board President, Sascha Wagner, discuss the value of membership for a young professional.

Nov 11, 2021 Students, Membership, Career

Design Your World: A Pathway to Design

IIDA’s inaugural Design Your World education pipeline program wrapped up in Chicago this summer, and is poised to expand building diversity and equity within the design industry.

Nov 02, 2021 Design your world

article

Be A Changemaker With IIDA

A community provides support, opportunity, connection, and growth. IIDA’s community is strong because of individual members, and future members, like you. Members who are the changemakers in their local community, at work, and across the globe.

Oct 19, 2021 Membership

article

NeoCon 2021: IIDA Celebrates Leaders, Community, and Looks Forward

With a focus on the workplace and the future of design, IIDA hosted keynotes, honored IIDA design leaders, and celebrated The Design Your World program

Oct 19, 2021 Neocon

article

Collective D(esign): Season Two Dialogues

With the second iteration of IIDA’s Collective D(esign) series, we brought together thought leaders for design-focused dialogues addressing our rapidly changing world.

Oct 19, 2021 Ceus

article

College of Fellows One-on-One: Part 2

IIDA's highest honor, the College of Fellows, honors the achievements and impact of design industry members. Learn more about our newest inductees.

Sep 21, 2021 College of fellows

article

IIDA at NeoCon 2021

Join IIDA this October as the industry returns to Chicago for NeoCon to celebrate and preview the best in design and thought leadership.

Sep 07, 2021 Neocon

article

College of Fellows One-on-One: Part 1

IIDA's highest honor, the College of Fellows, honors the achievements and impact of design industry members. Learn more about our newest inductees.

Aug 24, 2021 College of fellows, Honors

article

Oklahoma’s HB 1147

Kristen Brumley, IIDA, and lobbyist Haley Blood provide a behind-the-scenes look at their strategies for passing a bill and what to expect during the process.

Aug 09, 2021 Advocacy

article

Summer Advocacy Brief: 2021

Catch up on what our IIDA Advocacy chapter teams have been doing—bills that have passed and those still on the floor for votes.

Aug 09, 2021 Advocacy

article

Building Community and Engaging Members

IIDA's Janella Curtis catches up with Claudia Padilla, IIDA, Advocacy Vice President for IIDA Michigan to talk about shaping an advocacy program and planting roots towards affecting change.

Aug 09, 2021 Advocacy

article

We take a look at firms, projects and products that are site-specific, and/or evoke place through materials or experiences, presenting different ways to connect to place.

Jul 27, 2021 High5

article

Summer CLC Wrap Up

Summer programming included virtual community building, equity and inclusion, and celebrating our Campus Center and Chapter Award winners.

Jul 13, 2021 Chapters

article

Introducing Leaders Virtual

Leaders Breakfast is back and more accessible than ever with a virtual format honoring regional designers, featuring keynote speaker Elaine Welteroth, and more!

Jul 13, 2021 Leaders breakfast

article

Applying Human-Centered Design to Mentorship

2021 Wilsonart Essay winner Jonny Bywater, Student IIDA looks inward and discusses the importance of mentorship early in design careers.

Jul 12, 2021 Foundation, Student mentoring program

article

Scratch Pad: July

What to explore, read, and watch in July

Jul 12, 2021 Scratch pad

article

Member Spotlight: Kaitlin Snow, Ind. IIDA

We speak with IIDA Industry Member and Vice President of Industry Relations for our Texas Oklahoma chapter.

Jun 28, 2021 Members, Industry members

Perspective Innovation

The pandemic has given us an opportunity to innovate how and where we design

article

Perspective: Innovation | Reality Check

Call it the COVID effect: Interior designers are focusing even more on meeting user needs (not what’s racking up likes on Instagram)

Jun 24, 2021 Perspective

article

Perspective: Innovation | Modular Moves Mainstream

Prefabrication is proving even more relevant as designers find ways to deliver economies of scale—without skimping on quality.

Jun 24, 2021 Perspective

article

Mohawk Group Believe in Better Series

A three-part series that takes a look at how environmental psychology, human-centered design, and design thinking methodologies impact what we design.

Jun 11, 2021 Industry events, Ceus

article

Perspective: Innovation | Pre/Post: Shiroiya Hotel

A 300-year ryokan is transformed into a contemporary hotel that also aims to serve as the community’s “living room”

Jun 08, 2021 Perspective

article

Samantha Josaphat on Building a Career You Love

2021 Anna Hernandez/Luna Textiles Visionary Award winner discusses creating your dream career and re-discovering a love for architecture and designing spaces

Jun 01, 2021 Foundation, Awards, Career

article

2021 IIDA Chapter Award Winners

From supporting campus centers and building chapter connections, to leadership programming and celebrating member accomplishments, our chapter honorees went above and beyond to support their members and communities.

May 28, 2021 Chapters, Awards

article

Perspective: Innovation | Talk, Talk: Hit Refresh

How is the pandemic pushing designers to think differently?

May 28, 2021 Perspective

article

Introducing the IIDA Equity Council

As part of IIDA’s ongoing commitment to the sustained, intentional, and organized dismantling of racism in all of its forms and instances, we have established the IIDA Equity Council.

May 24, 2021 Iida, Dei

article

IIDA Member Moves: Spring 2021

Join us in celebrating our members who have achieved professional growth in the first quarter of 2021

Apr 30, 2021 Membership

article

Perspective: Innovation | Scratch Pad May

Get your summer reading list started with our design inspiration recommendations for summer. From iconic rock stars to fashion designers, visual artists and a look at the impact of design we’ve got you covered.

Apr 28, 2021 Perspective

article

Perspective: Innovation | Outside Wants In

Designers recognize the added importance in considering biophilia in the workspace—especially in a post-COVID-19 landscape.

Apr 28, 2021 Perspective

article

Perspective: Community | Retail Therapy

Retailers can survive the post-pandemic retail apocalypse—if they create an in-store experience worth visiting.

Apr 22, 2021 Perspective

article

Spring Advocacy Brief: 2021

Catch up on what our IIDA Advocacy chapter teams have been doing—bills that have passed and those still on the floor for votes.

Apr 19, 2021 Advocacy

article

IIDA Member Spotlight: Christine Peter

We speak with the VP of Advocacy, and Co-Chair of DEI for IIDA Southern California

Apr 14, 2021 Members

article

Perspective: Community | Pre/Post: Hyatt Place and Hyatt House Chicago

A nearly demolished historic hospital is nursed back to health—re-emerging as a much-buzzed-about multi-use commercial space.

Apr 01, 2021 Perspective

Spotlight on Our Chapters: 2020 Catalyst Grants

IIDA chapters reached important goals and benchmarks with funding from our Catalyst Grant program

Mar 22, 2021 Chapters

article

Perspective: Community | Reading the Room

A community gathering place for centuries, libraries evolve their interiors to meet emerging societal needs

Mar 22, 2021 Perspective

article

Women Lead Design: Women’s History Month Edition

IIDA connects with six leading women in design as they reflect on the value of mentoring, the role of women in design, and the places they seek inspiration.

Mar 08, 2021 Women lead design

Talk Talk: Screen Life

In a socially distanced world, here’s how two designers stay connected to their community.

Mar 05, 2021 Perspective

article

Maintaining Community During COVID-19

Even amid a sea of screens, design teams are finding ways to deepen connections—collaborating, creating, and conversing in whole new ways.

Mar 04, 2021 Perspective

article

Perspective Community: High 5

5 things generating buzz in the design world: Prada’s fashion statement, a haveli turned hotel draws on local artisans, Norway’s new passport, Lego’s biophilic blocks, and biotech textiles.

Mar 03, 2021 Perspective

Perspective Community

In this issue, we explore what "community" looks like as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic

article

Online Masterclass: The Importance of Interior Design in 2021

Cheryl Durst joins Martha Thorne to talk about the role of interior design, designers, and education in 2021.

Mar 02, 2021 Education

article

IIDA Member Spotlight: Rashanda Udekwu

We speak with IIDA member and Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) for IIDA’s Northern California chapter.

Feb 23, 2021 Members

article

For Now, For Next: 12 Essential Ideas For 2021

IIDA Industry Roundtable members convened to discuss what the past year revealed about life, work, and what the future might hold for the design industry, for our clients, and for ourselves.

Feb 08, 2021 Industry roundtable

article

Talk, Talk: Delineating Diversity

How can the design industry truly become more diverse and inclusive?

Feb 05, 2021 Perspective

article

IIDA Student Members Reflect on Their 2020 Mentorship Experience

The Student Mentoring program goes virtual in 2021—hear from students on the importance of establishing professional relationships while building their careers.

Feb 05, 2021 Students

article

Perspective Access: Scratch Pad

What to read, watch and browse this month.

Feb 03, 2021 Perspective

article

Perspective Access: Generation Next

Feb 01, 2021 Perspective

article

Anna Hernandez Awards Celebrates Women in Design

Establish your name, and fund the further development of your emerging design firm—if you are a woman-identifying designer you may qualify to apply for the Anna Hernandez/Luna Textiles Visionary Award and Education Fund.

Jan 25, 2021 Foundation

article

Cheryl Durst on Designing a Better 2021

Cheryl S. Durst shares insights on how we weathered a radical 2020 and the ways we can transform our world with, and through design in 2021.

Jan 25, 2021 Cheryl durst

article

Perspective Access Code

Instead of just ticking a box, designers are focused on building accessibility into the DNA of a space.

Jan 19, 2021 Perspectives

article

Perspective Access: High 5

Check out 5 items building buzz in the design world: pod offices, the state of women in the workplace, the whitest white, carbon-negative furniture, and bioplastic PPE.

Jan 19, 2021 Perspective

Talk, Talk: Mental Health Check

How can design leaders support team members’ mental health in difficult times?

Jan 06, 2021 Perspective

article

Perspective Fast Forward: The Automation Effect

Designers are using tech to add convenience—and safety—to their spaces.

Jan 05, 2021 Perspective

article

Interface + IIDA: Virtual Converge Sustainability Summit 2020

A cohort of emerging designers and students convened virtually for a two-day climate summit.

Nov 22, 2020 Interface converge

article

Perspective Fast-Forward to 2025

COVID has changed everything–what will last and what will morph into something else? Designers look ahead to the future of office, hospitality, healthcare, and retail interiors.

Nov 19, 2020 Perspective

Perspective Fast Forward

A look forward—COVID-19 has changed everything, we look forward to what is in store in the workplace, the new urbanism, automation, and how to manage mental health in the workplace

article

Advocacy Spotlight: Oregon and Cincinnati/Dayton

IIDA Chapters are staying connected with members safely and being creative with virtual events from happy hours and networking to annual fundraisers.

Nov 17, 2020 Advocacy

article

IIDA Advocacy: Sunset Reviews

Many laws contain a clause that calls for regular review or termination after a certain period of time–learn what this means as you advocate for your profession.

Nov 16, 2020 Advocacy

article

2020 State Legislative Round-Up

IIDA Advocacy shares what has changed, and what has stayed the same in key elections throughout the U.S. where politicians that support our industry were up for reelection.

Nov 16, 2020 Advocacy

article

What Design Education Means Now

What does it mean to teach in a global health crisis? IIDA and KI gathered six designers and education professionals to explore a changing education landscape, optimism, and the resiliency of students.

Nov 11, 2020 Education

article

The Value of IIDA Membership

IIDA is designed for you. Familiarize yourself with the benefits of membership—from networking opportunities to continuing education tools—and be included in an expansive design community.

Nov 04, 2020 Membership

article

IIDA Wilsonart Essay Winner Reflects on Mentorship Experience

The Wilsonart Essay awards IIDA Student members for participating in a reflection on their experience as a mentee in the Student Mentoring Program.

Oct 19, 2020 Students

article

From Outdoor Space to Outer Space

Climate change drives design towards sustainability and towards a future where we design for life in space, and the current trend towards incorporating the outdoors in workplace design.

Oct 13, 2020 Industry roundtable

article

The Design Process in the Real World

The 2020 IIDA Student Roundtable report highlights our program the offered IIDA Student members an inside look at different professions within the interior design industry—from designers, to sales and manufacturing roles.

Oct 05, 2020 Student roundtable report

article

Watch Advocacy 101: Just the Basics

The 2020 Advocacy Symposium opening session Advocacy 101: Just the Basics highlighted ways that the IIDA advocacy department can assist members and students in their advocacy efforts and debunked common advocacy misconceptions.

Oct 01, 2020 Advocacy

article

IIDA Virtual Advocacy Symposium: State of Affairs

IIDA's 2020 Advocacy Symposium went digital—catch up on the State of Affairs

Sep 23, 2020 Advocacy

article

Everybody is Included

How will efforts and progress in diversifying the interior design industry shape the future of the industry, and the world at large?

Sep 21, 2020 Diversity

article

Women Lead Design: Ronnie Belizaire, Rachel Rouse, Kia Weatherspoon

Women making strides in design discuss the urgency of this current moment, what’s next for design, and how a diversity of design thought is more crucial than ever.

Sep 08, 2020 Women lead design

article

2020 Advocacy Symposium Keynote Speaker Bill Grant

Bill Grant, mayor of Canton, Georgia, and president and chief creative officer of the award-winning Grant Design Collaborative, shares insight into how the skills that designers possess can drive advocacy.

Aug 10, 2020 Advocacy

article

When Women Lead, Design Thrives

As part of IIDA’s 2020 NeoConnect programming, IIDA presented Collective D(esign): Women Lead Design, with an eye on leadership and how women specifically lead, the panel addressed the importance of being able to see yourself reflected in your leaders and managers.

Jul 24, 2020 Women lead design

article

Sascha Wagner on Design Influence, Leadership During Crisis, and the IIDA Community

2020-2021 International Board President Sascha Wagner discusses the roles of community and design in the process of evolving through crisis, and the need for adaptability in our environments.

May 29, 2020 Iida, Iida international board, Future of design, Covid-19, Workplace design

article

Lauren Rottet: Connectivity, Success, and Enduring Design

IIDA and AIA Chicago kicked off the second season of their Designers & Architects Talk series on February 11, with a conversation between IIDA Executive Vice President and CEO Cheryl S. Durst, Hon. FIIDA, and Lauren Rottet.

Mar 10, 2020 Cheryl s. durst, Lauren rottet, Aia, Interior designers, Designers & architects talk series

article

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources and Safety Information

The health and safety of IIDA members is our priority, and we have gathered together some essential tips and important information for keeping you, your family, and your community safe.

Mar 10, 2020 Iida members, Personal health & safety

article

Interior Adaptations Across Chicago

On March 10, IIDA Headquarters will host Repositioned and Reimagined, a discussion on three of the most newsworthy and timely interior transformations in Chicago: Willis Tower, Tribune Tower, and Old Post Office.

Feb 21, 2020 Designers & architects talk series, Old post office, Willis tower, Tribune tower, Chicago, Interior design, Architecture, Adaptive reuse

article

Spotlight on Oklahoma: New Design Awards Elevate Local Community Work

Kristen Brumley, IIDA, discusses why championing Oklahoma’s local design community with the newly-established Oklahoma Interior Design Awards is beneficial to both practitioners and design advocates.

Feb 11, 2020 Advocacy, Chapter spotlight, Interior design advocacy, Oklahoma city center, Interior design awards, Kristen brumley

article

2020 Advocacy Preview: Continued Success

2019 was an eventful year for interior design legislation and activism. To build on this momentum, Emily Kelly, Director of Advocacy, Public Policy, and Legislative Affairs for IIDA, wants to help you advocate for your profession in 2020. Our advocacy initiatives, events, training guides, and resources, are designed to support your voice and creative energy.

Feb 10, 2020 Advocacy, Cheryl s. durst, Advocacy symposium, Legislation, Upcoming events, Interior design

Looking Forward to the 2020 Designers & Architects Talk Series

Here at IIDA Headquarters, we are thrilled to partner with AIA Chicago for the second consecutive year to co-present the Designers & Architects Talk series. This year, we offer four provocative Tuesday evening discussions that will address commercial interior architecture and design. Both architects and commercial interior designers will want to attend to learn from the speakers as well as to mix and mingle with the Chicago design community.

Jan 13, 2020 Interior design, Iida, Aia chicago, Designers & architects talk series

article

Leaders Breakfast 2019 in Review

This past December, IIDA’s Leaders Breakfast series wrapped another successful year, and an incredible decade of celebrating the history of IIDA, its design leadership, and our dynamic community of designers and industry members.

Jan 10, 2020 Herman miller, Leaders breakfast, Awards, Interior designers

article

How Evolving Behavioral Health Needs and Awareness Impact Interior Design

The 2019 IIDA HCD Power Lunch Addresses the Complexities in Designing for Behavioral Health Spaces and how the evolution of behavioral health needs and awareness impact interior design.

Dec 19, 2019 Healthcare, Iida hcd power lunch, Healthcare design expo, Hospitals, Safety

article

The Confluence of Workplace and Hospitality Design: An IIDA Panel Discussion at Room & Board

The IIDA-hosted panel at Room & Board's New York showroom focused on the influence of hospitality design in the workplace - one of the decade's most significant commercial interior design trends.

Dec 11, 2019 Industry, Interior design

View All Articles