American Society of Interior Designers

Overview

The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that promotes and advances the profession of interior design. Its mission includes enhancing the human experience through design and supporting legislative efforts to protect interior designers' rights to practice. ASID is the largest professional organization for interior designers in the U.S.

History

The roots of ASID date back to the early 20th century, when the interior design profession began to gain prominence. In 1931, the first national professional organization for decorators, the American Institute of Interior Decorators (AIID), was established. This organization later changed its name to the American Institute of Decorators (AID) in 1936 and then to the American Institute of Interior Designers (AID) in 1961.

In 1957, the New York Chapter of AID transformed into the National Society for Interior Designers (NSID), emphasizing the role of "Interior Designer" over "Decorator." By the 1970s, several clubs and organizations existed for decorators and interior designers, with AID and NSID being the largest. In 1975, these two organizations merged to form the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).

Membership and Activities

ASID has a diverse membership that includes practicing interior designers from both commercial and residential sectors, student members, and industry partners. Members are qualified based on education, experience, and examination and must adhere to a rigorous code of ethics and professional conduct.

The organization provides various educational programs, research initiatives, seminars, and conferences to keep members informed about the latest developments in design. This includes updates on materials, technology, building codes, government regulations, sustainable design practices, and more. ASID also engages in legislative and advocacy efforts to ensure interior designers' rights are protected.

Fields of Practice

Interior designers affiliated with ASID practice in a wide range of areas, including:

• Home/Model Homes
• Office/Corporate
• Health Care
• Hospitality/Entertainment
• Government/Institutional
• Retail/Store Planning
• Facilities Management

Mission

ASID's mission is to advance the interior design profession by promoting high standards of education, experience, and examination for its members. It also aims to increase public awareness of the impact of interior design on human experience and to advocate for policies that support the profession's growth and regulation.