Frequently asked questions

I am thinking of becoming an Interior Designer; how do I learn more about the career and educational requirements?

Becoming an Interior Designer requires a minimum level of education, experience and examination. A typical career cycle to fully qualified status is approximately 10 years. The best and most comprehensive resource to learn about a career in interior design is www.careersininteriordesign.com.

We encourage you to start by reviewing this website thoroughly. If you still have questions, please feel free to contact marketing@idcanada.org.

I want to hire an interior designer to help me with an upcoming project. How do I find a qualified interior designer?

IDC has a sophisticated searchable database of interior design professionals online called DesignFIND. Whether it is a residential or commercial project, use DesignFIND as a one-stop resource to research a number of interior design professionals. Every interior designer listed on DesignFIND is a member of a provincial regulatory association who has met minimum levels of qualifications and upholds professional standards.

Take advantage of the advanced search field to maximize your search. This feature tracks words in company descriptions that match your search parameters, so you can find the right interior designer for your project quickly and easily.

How do I become a member of IDC?

If you are a student in an interior design program, a graduate, or a practising interior designer, you cannot join IDC directly. You must first join your provincial association. A portion of your provincial membership dues will be automatically allocated to membership in the national Association and you will then receive all of the benefits and services offered by IDC.

If you are a member of the interior design supplier or manufacturer community, you may join IDC directly. In fact, we very much encourage you to do so. There are many reasons and benefits to become an Industry Member. Read more here.

What is the difference between my provincial association and IDC?

Most professional associations in Canada are structured in one of two ways. A regulatory association ensures that a professional meets the standards of membership and maintains his or her qualifications. In the interior design profession, the provincial associations are the regulatory bodies.

IDC advocates for the profession of interior designers and is mandated to advance the profession across Canada as well as internationally. It does so through advocacy with government and the public, and by providing continuing education opportunities and business practice support services to members.

When is the Association's Annual Meeting?

The IDC Annual Meeting is held in September during IIDEX/NeoCon Canada, the Association's annual tradeshow which takes place in Toronto. The meeting date is announced in the spring of each year.

How do I get more involved in the Association?

The Association is always looking for volunteers to help with committees and participate on a task force. We are also looking for members to write columns and be featured in articles and news stories.

If you are interested in any of the above opportunities, please send an email to admin@idcanada.org. Outline your area of interest and approximate amount of time per month that you are able to commit to volunteering for IDC. We are committed to making your volunteer experience meaningful by ensuring the right fit for you and the Association.