Lack of professionalism hinders interior design industry’s growth

The Secretary General, Interior Designers Association of Nigeria, Mrs. Titi Ogufere, has said the interior design industry in the country is being plagued by lack of professionalism, which is hindering its growth.

Ogufere, who spoke in Lagos during the World Interiors Day, an annual event celebrated globally to put interior architecture and design in the spotlight, said a lot of awareness was needed in the industry.

She said, “With many years’ experience gained in the interior design industry in Nigeria, I saw first-hand many of the issues hampering the growth of the industry, including the lack of professionalism, absence of structures and government.

“IDAN was then established with the support of the International Federation of Interior Architects and Designers, which is the United Nations of the interior design decoration industry globally. But till date, IDAN is the only professional interior design association in Nigeria.”

According to her, despite certain incentives offered to encourage members and woo others, there is currently no consideration of interior design as a discipline in schools and the industry lacks educational standards.

Ogufere, however, said the association was networking with top interior design schools internationally to provide training, organise workshops and seminars to boost the industry in Nigeria.

“Designers create safer, more efficient and comfortable environments for the world, and this does not only drive economic growth, but it enhances our daily lives and contributes to the well-being of the occupants of designed spaces. Communicating the positive impact of design is the top priority of IDAN and the guidepost of all its initiatives,” she stated.

The World Interiors Day 2014, with the theme, ‘ROOTS …because our roots matter’, was aimed at promoting the role that design plays as a medium for positive change in the society.

Ms. Omon Anenih-Mordi of Blue Mahogany stated that design constituted to life quality with its pervasiveness and served the human good though creativity and innovation.

The programme included the GUIDE exhibition, translated as Gida Uno Ile Design Exhibition, which in the three predominant languages in Nigeria, Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba, meant the home.

It also showcased 93 of the well known furniture, interior designers and interior products and finishes for three days.

“GUIDE was set up to orient the public about interior architecture, interior and product design and decoration to enhance knowledge about the profession, while encouraging cooperation between design professionals and showcasing our contributions to the society,” Ogufere said.

PUNCH.