Interior Design Designations Explained

Everyone is familiar with medical designations after a physicians name, but what about the ones after your interior designers name? Here’s a breakdown of what they mean and why it’s important.

NCIDQ: The Council for Interior Design Qualification (CIDQ), protects public health, safety and welfare by identifying interior designers who have the knowledge and experience to create interior spaces that are not just aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and safe. (ncidqexam.org)

ASID: American Society of Interior Designers is a community of people — designers, industry representatives, educators and students — committed to interior design. Through education, knowledge sharing, advocacy, community building and outreach, we strive to advance the interior design profession and, in the process, to demonstrate and celebrate the power of design to positively change people’s lives. (asid.org)

IIDA: International Interior Design Association strives to create a strong niche for the most talented and visionary Interior Design professionals, to elevate the profession to the level it warrants, and to lead the way for the next generation of Interior Design innovators. (iida.org)

CAPS: Certified Age In Place Specialist designation program teaches the technical, business management, and customer service skills essential to competing in the fastest growing segment of the residential remodeling industry: home modifications for the aging-in-place, which means living in your home safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of age or ability level. (nahb.org)

LEED AP: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design is changing the way we think about how buildings and communities are planned, constructed, maintained and operated. LEED-certified buildings are resource efficient. They use less water and energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. (usgbc.org)

NKBA: National Kitchen & Bath Association – Through the creation of marketplaces, networks and certifications, NKBA will inspire, lead, and empower the kitchen and bath industry. (nkba.org)

• AKBD: An Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer is a certified professional, knowledgeable in product selection, space planning, materials and finishes.
• CKBD: Certified Kitchen and Bath Designers specialize in the design, planning, and execution of residential kitchens and bathrooms, and prove advanced knowledge of technical and personal communication skills required to succeed as a design specialist.
• CMKBD: The Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer is a program which recognizes extraordinary experience and achievements in the kitchen and bath industry.