Find out how the Singapore Interior Design Accreditation Scheme (SIDAS) enables homeowners to protect their investments, minimise risks, and enjoy smoother, more successful renovation experiences.
20 November 2024
Top image: Project by Index Design
Text by Vanitha Pavapathi
Home renovation can be one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences for homeowners. While transforming a living space into a dream home is exciting, it comes with risks – budget overruns, poor workmanship, safety issues and unfinished homes. In fact, these risks have become commonplace in Singapore in recent years with the renovation industry recording the third-highest number of complaints in 2023, according to the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE).
So how do homeowners better navigate this minefield? In an industry where anyone can call themselves interior designers without necessary qualifications, the Society of Interior Designers Singapore (SIDS) believes that accreditation is the key to successful renovations.
Introduced in late 2021 and governed by the Singapore Interior Design Accreditation Council (SIDAC), the Singapore Interior Design Accreditation Scheme (SIDAS) sets a national standard for professional excellence, creating a clear benchmark for homeowners. The scheme ensures accredited interior designers possess the necessary qualifications, skills, and industry experience to manage projects efficiently and safely.
Fann Zhi Jie, Co-Chair of SIDAC, highlights that “accredited designers are also well-versed in the latest industry developments and building codes, reducing the likelihood of costly mistakes or violations that could set a project back.”
Additionally, the scheme promotes a better understanding of design professionals’ scope of work. Homeowners often struggle to differentiate between decorators, stylists, and designers with structural expertise. The SIDAS classification system provides clarity, helping clients choose the right professionals for their specific needs, whether they are looking for someone to manage complex spatial planning or simply to enhance the aesthetics of their space. With access to the accreditation directory online, homeowners are able to properly identify accredited designers prior to engaging their services.
With a minimum of a university education, practitioners are distinguished by their advanced capabilities in both spatial planning and structural design. Veterans without relevant academic qualifications require a minimum of eight years’ work experience and a portfolio that demonstrate said competencies.
With a diploma education at local polytechnics and institutions, practitioners possess expertise in creating interiors that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal. Veterans without relevant academic qualifications require a minimum of four and a half years’ work experience and a portfolio that demonstrate said competencies.
Trained through the Institute of Technical Education, Class 3 professionals focus on decoration, styling, and the selection of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E). Veteran professionals without formal training require a minimum of three years’ industry experience.
To uphold the integrity of the industry, SIDAC enforces stringent rules and consequences for interior designers who violate accreditation standards. Ng Hwee Li, Co-Chair of SIDAC, notes: “Designers found guilty of unethical practices, misrepresentation of qualifications, or non-compliance with regulatory requirements face disciplinary actions. These penalties range from warnings to suspension or even permanent revocation of accreditation.” The consequences aim to uphold professionalism and integrity within the industry, ensuring that the scheme maintains its reputation and reliability.
One example of a violation is when a Class 2 designer undertakes work reserved for Class 1 designers, such as structural design, which requires specialised expertise and is regulated by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). In such cases, disciplinary measures would be implemented, and the designer’s accreditation could be revoked. Compliance is monitored through self-reporting mechanisms and client feedback, ensuring accountability across the industry.
To help homeowners make informed decisions, SIDS is launching public outreach campaigns and providing resources that explain the differences between various accreditation classes. This includes a comprehensive online directory and materials detailing the scopes of work for each class of designer.
In addition, “accredited designers are required to display their class status on their credentials, making it easier for homeowners to identify qualified professionals,” adds Hwee Li. This transparency fosters trust between designers and clients and ensures that homeowners are fully aware of their designer’s competencies before starting a project.
One of the significant benefits of the accreditation scheme is the protection it offers homeowners in the event of disputes. Many homeowners may lack the financial means or time to pursue legal action, which is why SIDS is working on the development of an Interior Design Handbook, outlining best practices on job scope, project management, as well as contract and quotation frameworks. This proactive approach ensures transparency and fairness in agreements between designers and clients, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or disputes.
The long-term objective of SIDAC is to elevate interior design to the status of a legislated profession, similar to that of architects, lawyers, doctors and chartered accountants. Achieving this goal would significantly boost public trust in the industry while setting new benchmarks for professionalism.
In line with this vision, SIDAC is committed to promoting continuous professional development through workshops, mentorship programs, and partnerships with key industry stakeholders. The integrated Continuing Professional Development (CPD) framework ensures that designers stay updated on industry trends and advancements.
“By enhancing the professional stature of interior designers, we aim to attract and retain top talent while ensuring that the industry continues to evolve,” says Zhi Jie. The council also plans to introduce initiatives that focus on sustainable design and expand public education on quality design practices, ensuring the long-term relevance and impact of the accreditation scheme.
Find out more about the Singapore Interior Design Accreditation Scheme (SIDAS)
www.sidac.org.sg
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