New ASID Report Tracks Changes to Interior Design Profession

Washington, D.C., February 08, 2010 — ASID recently issued a revised and updated edition of its popular publication, The Interior Design Profession: Facts and Figures. This new edition is full of colorful, easy-to-scan infographics, as well as the latest information on design practice, design businesses and design education. It is an essential reference tool for anyone interested in this industry.

“Even before the recession impacted the building industry, the interior design sector had begun to level off from the peak years between 2004 and 2006,” said Michael Berens, director of research for ASID. “As we begin a new decade, the profession is still growing, but there have been notable changes.”

Unique to ASID, Facts and Figures brings together in one place information and data about all aspects of the interior design profession in the United tes and Canada, including design practice (e.g., number and distribution of designers, design firms, salary information, design specialties), design specification (by firm size, specialty and product category), design education (number and distribution of programs, faculty and students), and design legislation (type of legislation by state). It includes an international directory of interior design associations and directory of design centers in the United States and Canada.

In response to customer requests, The Interior Design Profession: Facts and Figures is now available in PDF format for immediate delivery. To purchase a copy, visit the ASID Store on the Society’s website at www.asid.org/store.

Letter to President-elect Obama

January 14, 2009

Dear President and First Lady Obama:

As you prepare to take office, it is natural that your attention be focused on the economy and your first 100 days. However, as you and your family move into the White House, it is important to consider your home's effect on your family's health, safety and welfare. I'm writing on behalf of the nation's largest interior design organization, the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), and I'd like to offer help and advice from our 40,000 members.

Although updating your residence isn't as critical as other pressing matters, it is important to remember that it is not just about picking colors and furniture. It is about creating an environment that is accessible to all ages, has great indoor air quality, and uses sustainable materials.

These design components are even more important since Malia and Sasha are the youngest White House residents since Amy Carter. They, along with visitors of all ages to your new home, will benefit greatly from the interior design changes you make.

While there is not a one-size-fits-all solution to residential interior design, even a home as historically significant as the White House can be modified to be safer and healthier. It's important that the interior designer you chose to work with evaluates the environment fully and addresses the entire interior, including the finishes, fixtures and furnishings. The design choices you have ahead of you are significant, and, with the help of interior design professionals, will create the ideal, comfortable environment for your family.

Our organization is devoted to advancing the interior design profession and has access to the latest research and cutting-edge industry knowledge. If you are interested, we'd like to share information with you on:

Sustainability: Using environmentally friendly materials and practices.
Building and Accessibility Codes: Ensuring renovations meet state and federal regulations.
Universal Design: Designing environments that are suitable for all people of all ages and abilities.

Moving into the White House is an occasion that should be celebrated. It formalizes your new role as Head of State. But above all, it will be your home away from home for years to come and should be a comfortable and enjoyable safe haven. Please know that ASID is a resource to assist you in transforming the historic White House into your home. We congratulate you, President and Mrs. Obama, and wish you the very best for 2009 and beyond.

Sincerely,

Michael Alin, Hon. FASID
ASID Executive Director

ASID Design Excellence Awards for the Tucson South Chapter

Lori Carroll & Associates was awarded Best of Show at the recent Arizona South Chapter, American Society of Interior Designers Design Excellence Awards Gala for the category of "Residential Spaces over 3500 Square Feet". In addition to Best of Show, Lori Carroll & Associates was honored with a 1st Place award for the project. The firm was also awarded with 1st and 3rd Place for "Bathrooms", 1st Place for "Product Design", 1st Place for "Commercial Space under 3500 Square Feet", 2nd Place for "Kitchens", and lastly, 3rd Place for "Show House/Model Home/Spec Home".