The Interior Design Society (IDS) is a prominent national organization committed to the residential interior design industry. As one of the largest design organizations in the country, IDS upholds four core values: professionalism, community, influence, and growth. The IDS National headquarters, situated in High Point, NC—renowned as the world’s home furnishings capital—serves as the epicenter of its operations. Established in 1973 by the National Home Furnishings Association (NHFA) to support interior designers within furniture stores, IDS has since broadened its mission to aid professional interior design entrepreneurs nationwide.

Founded in 1975, ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) is the oldest, largest and only multi-disciplinary professional organization for interior designers, interior design students and the manufacturers and suppliers who support the profession. ASID collaborates with others to promote the value of interior design, preparing members to excel in a dynamic and evolving profession with 13,500 design members, 6,000 industry partners, 5,500 student members, and 350 chapters.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is a prestigious professional organization representing architects in the United States. Founded in 1857, the AIA is dedicated to promoting the value of architecture and providing resources to its members for professional development, advocacy, and education. With headquarters in Washington, D.C., and over 200 chapters across the country, the AIA supports architects in their efforts to design sustainable, innovative, and socially impactful buildings and environments. Through its initiatives and programs, the AIA strives to advance the architectural profession and enhance the quality of life through design excellence.

NCIDQ Certification is the industry’s recognized indicator of proficiency in interior design principles and a designer’s commitment to the profession. NCIDQ Certificate holders have proven their expertise in understanding and applying current codes established to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Passage of the NCIDQ Examination is required for interior design licensure/registration in every regulated jurisdiction within the United States and Canada with the exception of California.  The exam covers seven areas that capture the core competencies of interior design: building systems, codes, construction standards, contract administration, design application, professional practice and project coordination. 

As the “voice” of the total furnishings and design industry, International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) provides its members with the tools and resources to enhance their businesses. Aggressive advocacy promotes the advantages of working with an IFDA professional. IFDA welcomes members from every facet of the furnishings and design industry. Members are executives and companies professionally engaged in the design, production, distribution, promotion, communication or education in the furnishings and design and/or related industries.

The International Interior Design Association (IIDA) is the leading organization for commercial interior design, boasting a global presence. IIDA supports design professionals, industry affiliates, educators, students, firms, and their clients through its expansive network of members in 58 countries. The association champions advancements in education, design excellence, legislation, leadership, accreditation, and community outreach. IIDA’s mission is to elevate the value and recognition of interior design as a profession that enhances business performance and positively impacts people’s health and well-being every day.