NEWS & MEDIA

Friday, November 04, 2011

The Interior Design Collaborative – Oregon participates in the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Oregon Chapter Fall Conference (link to blog)

 “Re-Design Your Path to Success" was the motto for the ASID Oregon Fall Conference held October 7-8, 2011 at a Mountain Resort in Welches. The Conference allowed ASID members to connect with IDC-Oregon, who had a table at the event.
Conference attendees were able to ask IDC-Oregon questions about legislation and how they could get involved.  IDC-Oregon President Alicia Snyder-Carlson explains how licensing will benefit commercial interior design businesses, “Licensing is a tool for every designer's success.  A license will expand business opportunities for designers in the commercial design field." ASID members responded and showed their support in IDC-Oregon’s efforts.
ASID member, Heather Woods, supports legislation; “Alicia and Lynne provided a concise and informative introduction and update on the activities of IDC-Oregon at the 2011 ASID Fall Conference.  I support the need for legislation in the interior design industry to qualify designers who affect the health, safety and welfare of the public.”
 Timberline lodge was the perfect setting for the conference which allowed designers, vendors and other members in the industry to re-connect. IDC-Oregon Vice President, Lynne Dewhurst, confirmed the success of the event: “The ASID conference was a fantastic experience.  The speakers were informative and the topics were educational.  We had several people express interest in IDC-Oregon and we're looking forward to working more with ASID in the future.”

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

IDC-OREGON TEAMS UP WITH LOCAL INTERIOR DESIGN STUDENTS(link to blog)

Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon is reaching out to interior design students throughout Oregon about the proposed Commercial Interior Design licensing bill. IDC-Oregon had the opportunity to present to Michele Kremers’ Intro to Interior Design class at Marylhurst University on October 3rd, 2011.


Marylhurst University has a Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) accredited program for Interior Design and supports IDC-Oregon’s effort in pursuing legislation. "Licensing for commercial interior designers is a natural extension of professional design education. Graduates of our program are prepared to creatively solve complex spatial problems while ensuring the safety and welfare of the public," says Nancy Hiss, Interior Design Program Director at Marylhurst.

The presentation informed students of the requirements in the proposed bill and they responded openly to the need for legislation for practicing Commercial Interior Designers. The students also voiced their interest in writing to their legislators to move forward with the Commercial Interior Design Practice Act. Instructor Michele Kremers, who is equally supportive, comments that "The students feel that licensing will validate their hard work and education by creating an industry standard of knowledgeable professionals that will be able to create and specify safe, healthy environments."

IDC-Oregon looks forward to continued collaboration with the Marylhurst Interior Design department and students.

Monday, October 10, 2011

CALL FOR LETTERS: SUSTAINABILITY MONTH EXTENDED (link to blog)

The public relations committee has extended Sustainability Month into October.
We need 13 more letters to send to news publications. Please submit letters to publicrelations@idc-oregon.org.

These letters are important because legislators read letters to the editor. These do make a difference. Make your voice heard.

Need ideas? Here is an example:

Date

Dear Editor,

In Oregon, green building is standard practice. As a commercial interior designer, it is my job to ensure my clients have healthy, non-toxic, and sustainable environments. I layout plans to maximize daylight, views and fresh air. I support local economies by specifying regional materials. I also specify materials that are high quality, natural, durable, and free of toxins.
I urge Senator XXXX and Representative XXXX to support licensing for commercial interior designers in Oregon because qualified interior designers are committed to and trained in sustainable, healthy, and energy-efficient practices that reduce waste and toxins. Licensing will define this responsibility within the commercial interior design field.
Oregonians deserve healthy and sustainable buildings.

Sincerely,

Your name
City, State, Zip

Wednesday, April 26, 2011

OREGON LEGISLATORS HEAR FROM INTERIOR DESIGN PROFESSIONALS (link to blog)

Commercial interior designers testify on protecting health, safety, and wellness of Oregonians

On Monday morning, the House Business and Labor Committee heard from design professionals during an informational hearing on “Commercial Interior Design in Oregon.” In addition to an overview, the Interior Design Collaborative of Oregon testified to clarify the intent behind a licensing bill they supported earlier this session.

“Commercial interior design has evolved dramatically over the past 15 to 30 years,” says Alicia Snyder Carlson, IDC-Oregon President. “Those who design our hospitals, universities, nursing homes, and public spaces require special knowledge to protect the health, safety and welfare of Oregonians.”  Snyder-Carlson testified that included building and fire codes, ADA guidelines, infection control, indoor air quality, and ergonomics.

Commercial interior designers in Oregon are the only unlicensed professionals on the interdisciplinary team largely responsible for design of large-scale public and commercial buildings, which includes architects, engineers and contractors. Over half of U.S. states and jurisdictions have enacted legislation that regulates interior design to enhance public safety.

“Licensing of interior designers will be a great benefit for our practice,” testified Troy Ainsworth, principal architect at Portland architecture firm Fletcher Farr Ayotte. “Our clients’ bottom line is always served if we do a great job for them, and do it right the first time.”

 
Sandy Friend, a veteran commercial interior designer from the Medford area debunked the myth that building code provides an adequate safety net. Finish and furnishing remodels do not require building permits, Friend testified, and therefore there is no code oversight in those cases except for the designer providing the services.

“IDC-Oregon believes effective and well-crafted licensure of commercial interior designers will not close the door on any form of residential interior design practice or related retail industry,” says Snyder-Carlson. “Today’s hearing was a testament to the huge strides the commercial interior design profession is making in the market place and an acknowledgement that we’re moving in the right direction.”

Thursday, February 17, 2011

BUSINESSES GET ON BOARD TO LICENSE INTERIOR DESIGNERS IN OREGON (link to blog)

Architects and stainability experts in the business community are weighing in on their support of HB 2491, A Practice Act for Registered Interior Designers in Oregon.   Letters of support are pouring in from leading industry design firms including Fletcher Farr Ayotte, Myhre Group Architects, BOORA Architects, GBD Architects, and Green Building Services.  In addition to these large firms, small-specialized practices including Toni King & Associates and Bainbridge are also expressing their support on the positive impact this legislation will have on their business.  

Registered Interior Designers will become responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable codes and gain the ability to submit plans for permit for interior remodel projects that do not require a Registered Architect.  This will increase the ability of independent Interior Design firms to do business and spur job growth in the importunate flagging construction market. The proposed Practice Act will not preclude anyone from calling oneself an interior designer or practicing residential design, but will define the services Registered Interior Designers practice relative to public health, safety, and welfare in commercial public spaces.  The legislation will not impact a company if there is previously board registered or licensed professional on staff.

To get involved contact Alicia Snyder-Carlson, President of IDC-Oregon at president@idc-oregon.org to schedule a face-to-face meeting with your community leaders to discuss how the Practice Act will have a positive economic impact on the state.  

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

IDC-OREGON: CALL TO ACTION (click for full article)

Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon is calling on interior designers throughout Oregon to support the proposed Interior Design Practice Act.

In order to promote the bill to be submitted during the 2011 Oregon legislative session, IDC-Oregon members would like to speak with you regarding the bill’s impact on the profession, strategy, and need for immediate funding. During the past year, Oregon professionals spoke out encouraging IDC-Oregon to pursue a Practice Act by answering a survey titled Practice or Title: You Decide. The published results of this survey can be found on the Legislation section of the website.  Now is the time to take action and support this bill.

Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon urges interior design professionals to unite and get involved voicing your preferences for Oregon's regulation of interior design practices before outside interests decide the future of the profession for you. The two most important ways to get involved now is: 1) donate online today to support IDC-Oregon's lobbyist and 2) write your legislator on why this issue impacts your practice.  Visit www.idc-oregon.org for talking points and additional resources.

Contact Michelle at publicrelations@idc-oregon.org or Alicia Snyder-Carlson, President at president@idc-oregon.org if you would like to further discuss the impacts a practice act might have on the profession in Oregon.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

INTERIOR DESIGN IS ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING CAREERS (click for full article)

The Oregon Employment Department indicates the Interior Design occupation is expected to grow at a faster rate than the regional average.1. Between 2008 and 2009 the profession grew by nearly 100 individuals, even with a poor economy and high unemployment rates. More than ever it is relevant to distinguish the unique skills and knowledge which characterize qualified Interior Designers within this growing profession to provide regulation for consumer protection.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

IDC-OREGON ASKS IF OREGON FACILITIES ARE UP TO ADA REGULATIONS (click for full article)

President Obama signs Executive Order increasing federal employment of individuals with disabilities. For the full story see: www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/07/27/

In a 2004 public case report, The Department of Civil Justice, Project Civic Access, stepped in to remedy common problems found in new construction and alternations of The City of Bend Oregon federal buildings. As quoted from the Project Civic Access Cities and Counties: First Steps Toward Solving Common ADA Problems brochure: "It is very common for architects and contractors to follow only their local building codes, which may not provide the same degree of accessibility to persons with disabilities. Compliance with local building codes does not ensure compliance with the ADA."

Monday, May 24, 2010

BUILDING MONTH SAFETY TIPS BY IDC-OREGON (PDF)

In recognition of National Building Safety Month, Interior Design Collaborative Oregon is raising awareness of interior design's role in ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

The fact that some environments are not always up to code is a cause for concern pertaining to the health, safety and welfare of Oregon's building occupants and visitors.  Interior designers understand the importance of these issues and are choosing to bring accountability to what we do by assisting building officials and clients through practiced knowledge of up to date code regulations and enforcements to maintain safe homes, workplaces, and public spaces.  

The members and supporters of IDC-Oregon make it a priority to become Qualified Professionals in their field through their education on how to design solutions for safe egress paths, ergonomics, cleaner air, better energy use, acoustics, and many other special needs in the built environment.

Our Weekly Tips (PDF) include how a Qualified Interior Designer ensures consumer safety through designing solutions for "Energy & Green", "Disaster Safety & Mitigation", "Fire Safety & Awareness", and "Backyard Safety".  Please contact us at  info@idc-oregon.com with questions.

Thrusdaday, April 22, 2010

INTERIOR DESIGN COLLABORATIVE-OREGON: HISTORY

1999: Oregon Coalition of Professional Interior Designers (OCPID) Introduces Title Act legislation to the Oregon senate.  Bill does not make it out of committee.

2001:OCPID introduces Tile Act legislation.  Opponents persuade the committee to not send the bill to the Ways and Means committees.

2003: OCPID introduces Title Act legislation. Progress is made with AIA, IIDA, ASID, NWSID, NKBA and student support.  The governor does not support any additional professional regulation at this time.

2005: OCPID is renamed and reorganized as the Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon (IDC-Oregon)

2006-2008: IDC-Oregon is established as a 501-c 6 non-profit organization, establishes bylaws and executive board, begins collaboration with design community, and expands membership.

2009: IDC-Oregon continues collaborative efforts with the design community, reaching out to interior designer, students, faculty, and industry professionals through educational forums, hall series, and legislative round table sessions.

• Collaborate with AIA and Landscape Architects
• Collaborate with industry reps and contractors
• Collaborate with fire marshals and building officials
• Continue town hall sessions regarding interior design legislation
• Make connections with legislators
• Promote health, safety and welfare through workshops and testing methods
• Establish relationships with the public, business owners, medical professionals, facility planners, managers, students, and educators.

2009-2010: IDC-Oregon begins writing a bill that regulates the interior profession in order to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of the public.  Input from the design community and related organizations continue to guide efforts.

2010: IDC-Oregon shifts focus from education to legislative strategic planning.  Re-branding and new website are developed.  

2011: IDC-Oregon introduces HB 2491  A Practice Act Bill for Registered Interior Designers into the 2011 Session in the Consumer Protection Committee.  The Bill has been referred to the Business and Labor Committee and is under review.