As I have been studying for the big exam, I came across this list. I like it because I think it highlights what my job entails from a knowledge and education standpoint. I may have mentioned before that when I tell people what I do for a living, most of them squeal and say, “That’s my dream job.” I realize that the title conveys the impression of sparkle and glamour. Based on the reactions of others when I tell them what I do, I wonder if that title makes it sound as though my job description is only to design multi-million dollar properties, place table lamps and fluff pillows. And, although my job does have it’s moments of magic, and it does allow me the opportunity to work with beautiful materials and spectacular spaces (something I love), for the most part it is just a job. One of problem solving and project management, with its ups and downs, and a fair amount of stress.
So from the Foundation of Interior Design Education Research, this, my friends is what I do for a living…
Understanding and implementing:
“The basic elements of design and composition that form the foundation for creative design, and an awareness of the various media in the visual arts that assist in the understanding of the universality of these fundamentals;
Theories of design, color, proxemics, behavior, visual perception, and spatial composition which lead to an understanding of the interrelationship between beings and the built environment;
The design process, i.e., programming, conceptualization, problem solving, and evaluation, firmly grounded on a base of anthropometrics, ergonomics, and other human factors;
Space planning, furniture planning and selection, developed in relationship to application to projects, including all types of habitation, whether for work or leisure, new or old; for a variety of populations, young and old, disabled, low or high income;
Design attributes of materials, lighting, furniture, textiles, color, etc. viewed in conjunction with physical, sociological and psychological factors to reflect concern for the aesthetic qualities of the various parts of the built environment;
The technical aspects of structure and construction, building systems, i.e., HVAC, lighting, electrical, plumbing, and acoustics, sufficient to enable discourse and cooperation with related disciplines;
Technical aspects of surface and structural materials, soft goods, textiles and detailing of furniture, cabinetry, and interiors;
The application of laws, building codes, regulations, and standards that affect design solutions in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public;
Communication skills, oral, written, and visual for the presentation of design concepts, the production of working drawings, and the conduct of business;
The history and organization of the profession; the methods and practices of the business of interior design; and an appreciation of a code of ethics;
Styles of architecture, furniture, textiles, art, and accessories in relation to the economic, social, and religious influences on previous cultures;
Methods necessary to conduct research and analyze the data in order to develop design concepts and solutions on a sound basis.”
(Taken from Professional Practice for Interior Design by Christine M. Piotrowski, page 16 and from the Foundation for Interior Design Education Research. The FIDER common body of knowledge in interior design, developed collaboratively by professional associations.)
Thank you thank you Shanna, for letting me borrow your fantastic black dress...
Me and Jana
Brooke and the gold wonder... I love that dress.
**Sidenote: Before this event, I had to attend another event for work. Dressed just like that. I was getting all kinds of looks, as I’m sure most people at the work event thought I had dressed up for the occasion. Little did they know that the red carpet was waiting… ha ha ha.
