IDC-Oregon Blog

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

2011-11-08T09:15:00.000-08:00

“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.”

IDC-Oregon teams up with Local Interior Design Students

2011-10-18T17:09:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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.

END

Call for Letters: Sustainability Month extended

2011-10-10T13:34:00.000-07:00

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

The Interior Design Collaborative – Oregon will volunteer at the Portland Marathon

2011-10-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

10 IDC-Oregon members will volunteer this Sunday at the 40th Portland Marathon. Volunteers will be at Water Aid Station #16 at NW 9th and NW Northrup near the 25 mile marker. The shift is 4 hours between 10:30 and 2:30pm. This is the second year IDC-Oregon has participated and has found the relationship to be a good fit.

“We support activities that benefit Oregonians’ health and wellness,” says President Alicia Snyder-Carlson, “We’re working to license Commercial Interior Designers in order to support health and welfare of Oregonians in the built environment. The money raised from the marathon’s direct giving program goes to fund our educational seminars. Those seminars focus on how interior design decisions affect occupant health and welfare.” Last week’s seminar covered evidence based design as it relates to specifying appropriate flooring for areas like neonatal intensive care units and other hospital inpatient areas.

Educational outreach is not the only benefit. Snyder-Carlson adds, “We’re paired with other organizations at the aid station. That is a great opportunity to meet other groups and learn about their organization’s mission and communicate our goals.” For example, IDC-Oregon has been meeting with Interior Design departments at Oregon Universities. Licensing Commercial Interior Designers will support the graduates’ careers. Additional outreach efforts include partnering with consumer advocacy organizations dedicated to safer and healthier environments.

For more information please contact Sermin Yesilada, Public Relations Chair, or visit us at the aid station on Sunday.

September PR Campaign

2011-09-16T15:03:00.000-07:00

Letter To Editors 11 more letters NEEDED

Topic: Sustainable Design

What is the most sustainable way to build? Adapt existing buildings. From reuse and recycling to eliminating indoor toxins, you make decisions every day to ensure Oregonians have access to the safest and healthiest sustainable buildings. We want to hear about your latest sustainable design project.

• Request template letters and/or submit letters, 200 words or less, to publicrelations@idc-oregon.org.

• We will be coordinating these and tell you which newspaper editors to send them to.

August PR campaign

2011-07-28T14:57:00.000-07:00

Have you been left out of an RFP? Can’t get drawings permitted? Have to duplicate your work by hiring an architect to stamp your drawings?

IDC-Oregon wants to hear your story.

Submit letters to publicrelations@idc-oregon.org

200 words or less. We will be coordinating these and tell you which newspaper editors to send them

Florida Senate Votes to Protect Registered Interior Designers

2011-05-09T16:25:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 9, 2011

CONTACT:

Allison Levy, JD
Senior Director, Government and Regulatory Affairs

International Interior Design Association
222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 567, Chicago, IL 60654 USA

312-467-1950 or alevy@iida.org

Florida Senate Votes to Protect Registered Interior Designers
House Bill 5005 Defeated in Senate

CHICAGO, IL -- On Friday, May 6 the Florida Senate defeated H.B. 5005, the “Deregulating of Professions and Occupations” bill, by a vote of 32-6.

“Licensing in Florida has created a robust design industry that employs thousands of Floridians and contributes significantly to the economy,” said Allison Levy, IIDA Senior Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs. “This vote by the Florida Senate ensures interior designers’ continued opportunity to contribute to their fullest capabilities.”

The Senate’s decision to vote down H.B. 5005 will allow Florida’s more than 2,800 registered interior designers to continue in their current practice. We thank our many members, whose tremendous grassroots efforts contributed to this decision.

IIDA and ASID strongly support voluntarily licensing that provides expanded practice opportunities for interior designers, allowing qualified designers to work independently in code-based built environments.

For more information, please contact International Interior Design Association info@iida.org

--End--

Oregon Legislators Hear from Interior Design Professionals

2011-04-26T18:22:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 26, 2011

CONTACT:

Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair

Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon

Email: info@idc-oregon.org

www.idc-oregon.org

Oregon Legislators Hear from Interior Design Professionals
Commercial interior designers testify on protecting health, safety, and wellness of Oregonians

SALEM, April 25, 2011—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.”

--End--

Oregon Interior Design Practice Act Bill Defines Vague Designers

2011-03-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 17, 2011

CONTACT:

Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair

Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon

Email: info@idc-oregon.org

www.idc-oregon.org

Oregon Interior Design Practice Act Bill Defines Vague Designers

68% of the US’s existing building stock is made up of single story buildings. This is a growing market for construction bidding within the commercial real estate market. It is also prime territory for hundreds of qualified interior designers already practicing their profession to market their unique knowledge, yet Interior Designers are the only unregulated profession in the design and construction industry.

Some jurisdictions, like Eugene and Bend require all plans for building construction and remodeling to be stamped by a Registered Professional. Interior Designers are trained to provide design services for interior construction remodels, but are not allowed to practice to their fullest capabilities in these cities. By defining 'Registered Interior Designer' and the scope of work Interior Designers are qualified to practice, as outlined in House Bill 2491, consumers will have more informed choices for the type of design services their projects require. This bill provides carefully crafted, generous exemptions, so a new category of Registered Interior Designers does not put residential interior designers, retailers, or contractors out of business.

In a recent survey published by the Daily Journal of Commence, over 80% of respondents, about 200 people, agree interior design should be regulated. House Bill 2491 would regulate the profession and initiate a registration process for interior designers to become licensed and qualified through industry accepted minimum levels of education, experience, and the passing of a national examination.

On February 21st 2011 Interior Designers throughout Oregon converged in Salem to meet with legislators in person. The biggest takeaway from the success of the1st Annual Capitol Day is for Oregon Interior Design businesses to continue to voice their support for a hearing of HB2491 by contacting members of the business and labor committee now.

For more information on HB2491 please contact Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon.

--End--

US Circuit Court Upholds Florida’s Interior Design Licensing Statute, Oregon Considers Similar Law

2011-03-09T14:38:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 09, 2011

CONTACT:

Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair

Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon

Email: info@idc-oregon.org

www.idc-oregon.org

US Circuit Court Upholds Florida’s Interior Design Licensing Statute, Oregon Considers Similar Law

The United States Court of Appeals 11th Circuit unanimously affirmed a 2010 district court decision to uphold Florida’s interior design statute. In the 2010 decision, Judge Robert Hinkle wrote the law “promotes compliance with fire and accessibility codes, helps reduce indoor pollution, and protects consumers.” The Oregon legislature is reviewing a proposal for a similar law. HB2491 sets minimum standards of competency to protect consumers and opens business opportunities for designers who wish to submit documents for construction permits in commercial/public occupancies. HB2491 does not prevent anyone from using the title “interior designer,” practicing residential design for single-family homes, or continuing to work under the supervision of licensed professionals.

Oregon’s chapters of the American Society of Interior Designers and International Interior Design Association laud the court’s decision. Sandy Hendricks, Past-President of ASID Oregon stated, “The unanimous decision in Florida is very big news. For designers who are seeking recognition in Oregon, realizing that purpose is one step closer. The proposed legislation in Oregon will clarify our industry and benefit us all.” IIDA Oregon President Roberta Pennington added, “HB 2491 will define professional interior design in Oregon, similar to the now-upheld act in Florida. IIDA, both locally and nationally, continues to support legislation to establish standards safeguarding the health, safety and well-being of the general public, define responsibility, and encourage excellence in the interior design industry.”

For more information on HB2491 please contact Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon.

--End--

BUSINESSES GET ON BOARD TO LICENSE INTERIOR DESIGNERS IN OREGON

2011-02-17T16:09:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 17, 2011

CONTACT:
Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair
Interior Design Collaborative-Oregon
Email: info@idc-oregon.org
www.idc-oregon.org

BUSINESSES GET ON BOARD TO LICENSE INTERIOR DESIGNERS IN OREGON

Architects and sustainability 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 businesses.

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 in IDC-Oregon’s upcoming committee meetings, contact Michelle at publicrelations@idc-oregon.org or Alicia Snyder-Carlson, President 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.

-- End --

IDC-OREGON: CALL TO ACTION

2011-01-04T13:42:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 4, 2011

CONTACT:
Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair
Interior Design Collaborative Oregon
(503) 200-5996
Email: info@idc-oregon.org
www.idc-oregon.org

IDC-OREGON: CALL TO ACTION

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 their website.

The fact that many interior environments are not up to ADA and life-safety codes is a cause for concern for visitors and occupants. With public code officials employed by the State of Oregon still on the decline due to state budget cuts, Registered Interior Design Professionals understand the importance of building safety issues and have chosen to take responsibility for their practice. Through regulation, interior designers will be recognized as qualified individuals to assist in supporting the design and enforcement of safe building and environmental codes and regulations.

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.

-- End --

INTERIOR DESIGN COLLABORATIVE-OREGON ANNOUNCES NEW WEBSITE AND MEMBER RESOURCES

2010-11-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 3, 2010

CONTACT:
Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair
Interior Design Collaborative Oregon
(503) 200-5996
Email: info@idc-oregon.org
www.idc-oregon.org

INTERIOR DESIGN COLLABORATIVE-OREGON ANNOUNCES NEW WEBSITE AND MEMBER RESOURCES

IDC-Oregon has launched a new website to provide up to date information on the passing of an Interior Design Practice Act in Oregon. The new website is a resource to inform practicing and emerging interior designers in the state how this legislation will have a positive impact on the future of the profession as well as on consumer protection. This website will also help to allay any concerns designers may have about the proposed bill.

"Our optimism is this new website will inform the public, as well as professionals, of the unique skills and knowledge we possess to design healthy and safe interior spaces", says President Alicia-Snyder Carlson. She continues, "Our organization offers professionals an alternative forum to collaborate within a budding but fragmented design community by recognizing each specialty practice area and encourages supporting our growth as an single profession."

With the climbing increase of interest in DIY home improvement as the "standard" of how the public views interior design, the interior design profession is one of the fastest growing careers across the United States. Although many homeowners might not be concerned about a Registered Interior Design distinction in Oregon, IDC-Oregon is concerned about healthy and safe interior design practice standards in places like hotels, schools, hospitals, workplaces, and anywhere the public might be assembling in a large crowd where fire and egress safety are important.

Today in Oregon, anyone can practice as an interior designer. The proposed Practice Act sets minimum standards for education, work experience hours, and requires passage of a 16-hour exam that tests competency in life safety and welfare in the interior built environment. This new practice of Registered Interior Design will ensure consumers are hiring competent interior designers for public spaces.

Supporters of IDC-Oregon include those in the architectural and construction fields that understand interior designers make important decisions within the design process, which directly affects the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Oregon. Their growing membership base includes designers who practice in the residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, governmental, retail, hospitality, and sustainability fields.

Visit their new website at www.idc-oregon.org to see how you can get involved or contact Alicia Snyder-Carlson, President, at president@idc-oregon.org to schedule a face-to-face brown bag lunch session to discuss the Practice Act in detail.

-- End --

INTERIOR DESIGN IS ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING CAREERS IN THE UNITED STATES

2010-09-01T12:05:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1, 2010

CONTACT:
Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair
Interior Design Collaborative Oregon
(503) 200-5996
Email: info@idc-oregon.org
www.idc-oregon.org

INTERIOR DESIGN IS ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING CAREERS IN THE UNITED STATES

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.

During the months of August, September, and October IDC-Oregon is holding brown bag lunch presentations at architectural firms and city building development offices throughout Oregon. These presentations engage in an open dialog for professionals to voice comments and concerns regarding Interior Design Legislation. In addition to clarifying the question "What is the interior design profession?" among professionals, clients will gain a informed choice between hiring a qualified person who is educated, trained, and tested to perform contracted interior design services from designers who specialize in additional areas of expertise. This will better educate the public of the many services Oregon's interior designers may offer and perform.

Interior Design Collaborative Oregon is proposing introducing a Practice Act in the 2011 legislative session to regulate the practice of Interior Design and to define the next generation of career professionals. Members of the organization believe in an ethical responsibility to execute thoughtful designs of interior environments to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of the occupants and clients they design for.

"It is our goal to obtain letters of support from Architecture and Design offices, or 'A&D firms', to present to the American Institute of Architects as well as to Oregon legislators. We are working on building our membership through these meetings and soliciting donations for our legislative efforts," says President of IDC-Oregon, Alicia Snyder-Carlson, LEED®AP ID+C. She continues, "If every designer who answered 'Yes' to the Practice or Title Survey in June donated $230, we would have enough money without any grants to hire a lobbyist."

Please consider joining IDC-Oregon by endorsing their efforts to promote and pursue an Interior Design Practice Act Bill. They are pleased to schedule a meeting with your team to discuss the bill language, legislative strategy, and how your professional practice can benefit from Interior Design Legislation. Contact Alicia Snyder-Carlson, President at president@idc-orgon.org and Sermin Yesilada, Vice President and IIDA past president at vicepresident@idc-oregon.org with questions.

1. For Career Information, Visit Work Source Oregon's Labor Market Online Information System at http://www.qualityinfo.org/ and search within their Data Tools to find Oregon's Occupational Report Information about Interior Designers.

- END –

IDC-OREGON ASKS IF OREGON FACILITIES ARE UP TO ADA REGULATIONS

2010-08-05T12:20:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 5, 2010

CONTACT:
Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair
Interior Design Collaborative Oregon
(503) 200-5996
Email: info@idc-oregon.org
www.idc-oregon.org

IDC-OREGON ASKS IF OREGON FACILITIES ARE UP TO ADA REGULATIONS

President Obama signs Executive Order increasing federal employment of individuals with disabilities. Check out the full story here: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/07/27/celebrating-with-substance

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."

The City of Bend Project Civil Access is one of 4 known civic cases in Oregon where The Department of Justice has cited non-compliance with the American with Disabilities Act requirements in new and altered federal buildings and adjoining public spaces. Other Department of Justice civil action cases are noted in Desuchtes County [2004], City of Ashland [2001], and Tillamook County [2003].

Interior Design Collaborative Oregon is concerned that Oregon’s buildings may not be adequately designed for an aging work force. With this additional increase of employment for individuals with disabilities at the federal level, IDC-Oregon asks if local facilities are meeting the physical and psychological needs of the general population.

A qualified interior designer is uniquely educated, trained, and practiced in solving design challenges for all people - including those who require extra design to meet their capabilities or needs.As ADA coordinators, facility designers, and construction documentation specialists, these skills are an asset to help the public voice their needs and to assist with Oregon Federal Building upgrades. It is imperative we maintain healthy and safe places to work through exceeding local and federal regulated codes and ADA practices so that all citizens can equally participate in Oregon's economic future.

We join the President in celebration of the continued great work being done by his administration to ensure the equal human rights of Americans. Happy 20th Anniversary ADA!

Join IDC-Oregon on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to share your thoughts on how the two new rule amendments will have a positive impact on your clients and the future of your interior design practice.

- END –

IDC-OREGON INVITES YOU TO GET INVOLVED AT ANNUAL MEETING

2010-07-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 12, 2010

CONTACT:
Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair
Interior Design Collaborative Oregon
(503) 200-5996
Email: info@idc-oregon.org
www.idc-oregon.org

IDC-OREGON INVITES YOU TO GET INVOLVED AT ANNUAL MEETING

Interior Design Collaborative Oregon welcomes the design and construction communities interested in voicing their comments regarding the future of Oregon’s interior design professional practice to attend the upcoming Annual Meeting July 13th 6:00pm at Pratt and Larson Tile located at 1201 SE 3rd Ave in Portland.

IDC-Oregon is a non-profit; grassroots organization of interior designers dedicated to shaping the future of the profession. Their mission is committed to securing a state regulated licensing program and will be submitting an Interior Design Practice Act in the Oregon State Legislative 2011 Session. The purpose of the Practice Act is to protect consumers from unethical and possibly dangerous building practices. This legislation will establish minimum benchmark levels for education, experience, and examination in order to define a minimum level of competency for those who are liable to safeguard the interior environments we all play, live, and work in.

Consumers will be able to make more informed choices when hiring a state qualified licensed interior designer, and understand the many services different specialty qualified experts may offer and perform. Many professions in the State of Oregon who perform services for the public require state regulated licensing to practice including building contractors, realtors, and educators. Currently, of the practitioners involved in the design and construction industry, only interior designers are unregulated. Supporters of IDC-Oregon include those in architecture and construction that understand every decision an interior designer makes affects the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Oregon.

On a national level, 25 states and 9 provinces have adopted Interior Design Registration Acts. Oregon is one of roughly 14 states currently in pursuit of either a Title Registration or Practice Act legislation. For additional information on IDC-OREGON, to RSVP for the upcoming meeting, or to get involved by supporting our campaign, contact Michelle Neidiger PR-Chair, or visit us online at www.idc-oregon.org.

- END –

The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Promote Healthy Homes

2010-06-28T10:51:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Contact: U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development: 202-708-0685
Office of Public Health and Science: 202-205-0143

Acting Surgeon General Issues ‘Call to Action to Promote Healthy Homes’

Acting Surgeon General Steven K. Galson, M.D., M.P.H., today issued The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Promote Healthy Homes at a press conference from the National Building Museum in Washington D.C. The Call to Action looks at the ways housing can affect health; its release will initiate a national dialogue about the importance of healthy homes.

“The home is the centerpiece of American life,” Galson, a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service, said during today’s press conference. “We can prevent many diseases and injuries that result from health hazards in the home by following the simple steps outlined in this Call to Action.”

Some examples outlined in the Call to Action include preventing falls by taking measures such as installing grab bars in showers and preparing a fire escape plan. Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among older adults.

Other steps outlined in the Call to Action include:

Check gas appliances, fireplaces, chimneys, and furnaces yearly and change furnace and air conditioning filters regularly.
Keep children safe from drowning, lead poisoning, suffocation and strangulation, and other hazards.
Improve air quality in their homes by installing radon and carbon monoxide detectors, eliminating smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, and controlling allergens that contribute to asthma and mold growth.
Improve water quality by learning to protect and maintain private water wells.

Galson urged everyone from parents and homebuilders to community leaders and policy makers to embrace the holistic approach to creating healthy homes outlined in the Call to Action.

During the event, Ron Sims, Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) also announced the release of HUD’s Healthy Homes Strategic Plan. HUD’s plan demonstrates why healthy homes is a national priority, describes what steps should be taken to achieve healthier housing, and highlights the key public and private partners for implementation.

“We are pleased that we are able to release our strategic plan to the nation today,” Sims said. “We must continue to work together across communities and the nation to ensure our homes are sited, designed, built, renovated, and maintained in ways that support the health of residents.”

The Call to Action outlines the next steps of a society-wide approach to healthy homes that will result in the greatest possible public health impact and reduction of disparities in the availability of healthy, safe, affordable, accessible, and environmentally friendly homes.

Individuals can make their homes healthy and more environmentally friendly by improving air quality, safely using household products, properly using safety devices, adequately supervising children, and abating the use of toxic chemicals.
Organizations can educate at-risk populations about the connection between health and housing, and identifying and addressing home deficiencies.
Health care providers can incorporate healthy housing solutions into their protocols.
Government can help create homes that are affordable and improve people’s health. Adequate supplies of affordable housing must be made available in order for healthy homes to be achieved.

“Good health begins at home. Home is the place that most families connect, talk, and make decisions about their health,” said Dr. Howard Frumkin, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Environmental Health within the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. “Ensuring that the nation’s homes are safe, healthy, affordable, accessible and environmentally friendly will have a direct, immediate and measurable effect on the health of the nation.”

The Call to Action also highlights the need for research that links housing conditions with specific health outcomes and that highlights the impact of disparate access to safe, healthy, affordable, and accessible homes. The outcomes of this research should result in tangible improvements to people’s lives by translating practice into policy.

The release of this document is part of a larger Healthy Homes Initiative led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and HUD with support from such organizations as the National Center for Healthy Housing, the Alliance for Healthy Homes, and the Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning.

Please visit www.surgeongeneral.gov for more healthy home information, to download The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Promote Healthy Homes, or to listen to a podcast from the Acting Surgeon General.

To order a printed copy of The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Promote Healthy Homes, call 1-800-CDC-INFO or email cdcinfo@cdc.gov and reference the publication title.
Please also visit: www.cdc.gov/healthyhomes and www.hud.gov/healthyhomes.

BUILDING MONTH SAFETY TIPS BY IDC-OREGON OREGON

2010-05-24T11:29:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 24, 2010

CONTACT:
Michelle Neidiger, PR Chair
Interior Design Collaborative Oregon
(503) 200-5996
Email: info@idc-oregon.org
www.idc-oregon.org

BUILDING MONTH SAFETY TIPS BY IDC-OREGON OREGON

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 human needs in the built environment.

Our Weekly Tips 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.org for a PDF copy of all four weekly tips or visit the news section of our website at www.idc-oregon.org.

- End -

Collaboration Newsletter - Opposition

2009-01-12T13:24:00.001-08:00

Over the last year, many of you have voiced concern about opposition to interior design regulation. Challenges to existing and proposed regulation are plenty. The Institute of Justice, a libertarian special interest law firm, is one strong adversary representing decorators in Texas, Oklahoma, and Connecticut to challenge those states’ Title Registration Acts. Currently all of these States regulate the use of the title “Interior Designer” but not the "Practice of Interior Design". The Institute of Justice's argument is that the title of “Interior Designer” is too broad and violates the first amendment rights of the decorators to market their work.1

The Institute of Justice threatened such a lawsuit in New Mexico in 2007. In response, New Mexico’s Board changed the title to “Licensed Interior Designer.”2

Also in 2007, Alabama’s Supreme Court ruled the 2001 Practice Act unconstitutional.3 Their Board amended the Act in 2006, which is the version Alabama's Regulatory Board currently operate under.4

There is also some controversy over Florida’s long standing Practice Act. The Florida Board is busy working with an outside group contracted to enforce their law to ensure that it is being enforced properly.5

The outcomes of the all these cases will be very important to Oregon’s future efforts in pursuing professional regulation - weather that comes to be a Title Act or Practice Act. We continue to pay attention to these and other issues to better inform Oregon's cause. It is important to keep a positive and objective outlook when studying these developments and not get distracted by untruthful arguments often found within the opposition.

If we can delve past the plethora of adverse advertising and articles 6, we can start to see the root of the issue. Building projects require a team of qualified professionals to deliver a project that is functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. Studies assert that the design process is becoming less linear and more fluid with the adoption of integrated design and BIM.

Architects, building owners, and engineers have been promoting integrated design for a few years.7 This provides an opportunity for interior designers to assert ourselves as experts in ergonomics, human context and psychology, functionality, materials, and furnishings. Integrated sustainable design, LEED, and Evidence Based Design are all areas where an Interior Designer’s knowledge of the health, safety, and welfare of the public are needed. Health, safety, and welfare are the basis for recognized professional regulation.

IDC-Oregon’s approach for professional regulation is based on collaboration. Currently we are the only professionals working in the construction and building trades not registered or regulated through the State. We are working with the local ASID, IIDA, and NWSID chapters and collaborating with the AIA, industry representatives, building officials, fire marshals, and contractors to discuss the need for regulating interior designers through legislation that establishes minimum standards of defined competency. The end result will be a clearly written bill - Either a Title Act or Practice Act - that will establish consumer protection and define our profession.

Please join our next Town Hall session on Tuesday January 27th 2009 at the White Stag building. We will discuss the process of legislating our profession. Your voices are crucial to this effort and we hope you will participate in shaping the future of interior design. For more information please visit: www.idcoregon.org.

Sincerely,
Peg Suzio, Past President IDC-Oregon

Footnotes:
1 GRA Committee conference call (October 8 2008)

2 New Mexico Ends Unconstitutional Censorship of Interior Designers. The Institute for Justice. 6 April 2007. (21 November 2008)

3 Alabama Supreme Court invalidated interior design practice act. Interior Design Freedom Coalition. Edward Nagorsky. 22 October 2007. (21 November 2008)

4 Alabama State Board of registration for interior designers administrative code. Effective October 20 2008. (4 December 2008)

5 GRA Committee conference call (October 8 2008)

6 See articles listed below from Institute for Justice. Many additional articles are available to read on their website: www.ij.org

Designing cartels: How industry insiders cut out competition. (September 2006)

Designing liberty: Pulling the curtains on the interior design cartel. (2007)

Designed to mislead: How industry insiders mislead the public about the need for interior design regulation. (2008)

7 The Construction Users Roundtable. Collaboration, Integrated Information, and the Project Lifecycle in Building Design, Construction, and Operation. American Institute of Architects, August 2004. (21 November 2008)

For rebuttal please reference the following:

Rebuttal of the Report by the Institute of Justice’s Designing Cartels: How Industry Insiders Cut Out Competition. Martin, Caren S. (7 November 2007)

Collaboration Newsletter - Mike Stinziano / Dr. Denise Guerin

2008-06-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

I’d like to take this time to reflect on the legislative work we’ve accomplished in the past year and present our direction for the upcoming board year. IDC-Oregon made progress in our efforts to develop a greater awareness and understanding of the interior design profession in terms of legislation. We collaborated with IIDA on two important legislative forums as well as attended monthly board member legislative round table discussions.

The guest speaker for IIDA’s August forum was Dr. Mike Stinziano, national legal council for IIDA. Dr. Stinziano spoke about IIDA National’s Government and Regulatory Affairs purpose and policies for securing legislation for interior designers in each state. He presented what’s at stake and why legislation is important for the interior design profession in an honest and fair light and reminded everyone that all politics are local. He explained the purpose of interior design legislation is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public and he shared information about the various organizations opposing legislation.

Opposition is not uncommon in any legislative effort and our situation is not unique. Opposition appears to arise mainly from fear, lack of communication, and the inability or interest to read legislative bills thoroughly and thoughtfully. Fear of legislation is a common response from designers who have been practicing for a long time and are concerned their ability to practice design or call themselves an interior designer may be in jeopardy. One of the main questions surfacing from Dr. Stinziano’s presentation was what does the issue of health, safety, welfare really mean?

Responding to this interest in the impact of our work on the health, safety, welfare of the public, IDC-Oregon in collaboration with IIDA invited Dr. Denise Guerin to speak about how the health, safety, and welfare of the public is directly related to the work we do. Dr. Guerin presented a two-hour, .02 CEU session defining these terms, providing specific examples, and leading the audience through an exercise to develop a clear understanding of how professional interior design contributes to health, safety, welfare and provides substantial value to people’s lives. The exercise involved identifying solutions for design problems encountered for a particular client, project, building type, and end user. Participants were asked to write one example of a design solution in which our knowledge was drawn upon to protect people’s health. This exercise was repeated for safety and again for welfare.

This exercise was no simple task. It required reflecting and thinking deeply to provide real evidence from our practice that we protect people’s health, safety, and welfare. This exercise related to learning in interior design education, experience or examination. Dr. Guerin’s point was well made: As socially responsible interior designers it is incumbent upon us to engage and practice at a deeper level providing evidence-based design for the work we do.

A recent article in Perspective Magazine (Summer, 2008) entitled Designers are Motivators addresses the impact our work has on health, safety, and welfare. In this issue designers are encouraged to enter into a dialogue with their clients about ways design can create safer, healthier environments. The author, Jan Stone, speaks to the responsibility of interior designers to create environments that encourage physical activity and a healthier lifestyle. As Michael I. Goran, Ph.D. states in the article; “Designers have a unique opportunity to address the obesity problem through identifying and creating aspects of the workplace, homes, schools, and urban and community plans that promote a healthier lifestyle” (p. 29). Stone is intrigued about whether something as simple as a well-placed stair could be a solution for convincing people to walk rather than use an elevator. She acknowledges that well placed stairs are not the solution to reversing obesity however she notes, “From creating collaborative work environments that encourage constant movement to allowing for plentiful daylight access, interior designers can have a direct positive impact on public health and well-being” (p. 29).

The work of interior designers affects many people and we have a responsibility to understand the benefits of designing an environment that is supportive, gets people moving, and provides a richer experience throughout. Research has produced evidence that the work of interior designers can have a positive impact on the health of people. Craig Zimring, Ph.D. states “Change brought on by interior designers can’t happen fast enough, especially considering the CDC obesity map” (p. 32). This change requires interior designers to be aware of the evidence that links design to health and behavior outcomes (p. 32).

Legislation of the interior design profession entails much more than meets the eye. It requires a commitment to 1) unification by defining who we are, 2) requiring specialized knowledge of the profession though education, and 3) being thoughtful of practicing evidence-based design.

IDC-Oregon is committed to elevating awareness of legislation for the profession through educational forums that continue to raise the knowledge level of entry-level design professionals and advancing the knowledge and growth of practicing professionals in 2009 and beyond.

Please join our growing membership to define and shape the future of the interior design profession.

Sincerely,
Peg Suzio, Past President IDC-Oregon

Collaboration Newsletter - Interior Design Titling

2008-01-10T12:26:00.000-08:00

I would like to update everyone on national legislative efforts underway on IIDA, ASID, NKBA, and NWSID’s behalf. In particular, Caren Martin, Ph.D. has produced a wonderful response to an article titled Designing Cartels: How Industry Insiders Cut Out Competition, a report that examines Interior Design Titling. While I will not present details of the Designing Cartels article, I believe Martin’s response is a wealth of information relevant to our interest in securing a Professional Status of the Interior Design Profession.

Martin's response in the article, perhaps inadvertently, draws attention to the “confusion that exists in the public realm about the title 'Interior Designer'" thus observing that the authors of the rebutted report don’t understand the difference between 'interior designer' and 'interior decorator'. She feels that given this widespread public disconnect it is even more pressing for the interior design profession to demonstrate their value with respect to the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

Martin writes, “One characteristic of a profession is regulation of its practice”. Regulating a profession requires engaging in a legislative process that is both extensive and complex. It “relies on a broad basis of input from all stake holders and is successful when all parties have negotiated to secure the best outcome for the public”. Martin acknowledges efforts for pursuing legislation encompass gathering sponsors and educating legislators prior to the introduction of the legislation. Therefore it is particularly important for the Interior Design community to work together, and with legislators, to make the case that there is a compelling public reason for regulating their practice. Currently there are 26 other states, including The District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and all eight Canadian Provinces with interior design legislation in place to protect the health, safety and welfare of their citizens. To learn more about states and provinces with legislation regulations go to: IIDA Advocacy

Beyond addressing consumer protection, legislation may serve to qualify and define other essential professional elements of interior design practice, as it has for over 8,400* professions regulated in the United States today.

Martin’s analysis of the data presented in the Designing Cartel article concludes a measure for success which interior design legislation campaigns need: education, examination, and experience. For interior design this includes 1) identifying the relationship of interior design with the health, safety, and welfare of the public, 2) provision for a formal education, and 3) monitored experience in the field.

Checking IDC-Oregon's efforts against Martin’s sense for interior design legislation across the country is one way to gauge our efforts are staying focused on the same issue - Defining the Profession.

In the next legislative corner I will be writing about Denise Guerin and Caren Martin’s publication The Interior Design Profession’s Body of Knowledge. This work talks about the importance of developing a specific body of knowledge necessary to define and support a profession whose work is considered *“reliable and of high value”. Read and download the 230 pages at: http://www.careersininteriordesign.com/idbok.pdf

Sincerely,
Peg Suzio, Past President IDC-Oregon

To read *Martin’s publication go to: https://netfiles.umn.edu/users/cmartin/Martin%20IJ%20Rebuttal
To read Designing Cartels report go to: http://www.ij.org/publications/other/designing-cartels.html