Support interior-design legislation

You may ormay not be aware of Senate Bill 181, introduced by Senator Mary Kay Papen in the New Mexico Legislature last month. The purpose of this bill is to secure the rights of licensed interior-design professionals to stamp and seal documents in New Mexico. The bill was passed unanimously in the Senate and at press time was waiting on the House vote.

The professional organizations ASID and IIDA have been working together the past few years to propel this effort and secure the legal recognition of interior designers in New Mexico who meet the qualifications. In 2017 during the last full legislative session, the bill passed both houses with vigorous support, but was vetoed by the former governor.

Why is this important? First, I want to clear up the misconception that interior designers only pick furniture, choose fabrics and paint colors, much like the decorators seen on HGTV and similar shows. Qualified certified interior designers in some states can sign and seal and submit drawings for permitting. The key words are qualified and certified. Interior designers earn this status through education, expe- rience (under a qualified and certified, licensed interior designer) and examination.

It is true that an interior designer can make sure that a space looks terrific, but they do much more that the public realizes. Local building codes, as well as safety codes must be part of the knowledge that interior designers use in designing spaces for residential and public spaces. There are so many decisions to process in a design and a qualified interior designer will know what products and finishes are appropriate for residential versus let’s say a medical office. The difference between qualified and unqualified interior designers affects the health, safety, andwelfare of everyone.

The qualified interior designer will address similar issues when designing any space, whether residential or commercial. Some of them are: • aging in place • accessibility • air quality • flammability • product maintenance • environmental sustainability Training and education of a designer will ensure that they choose products that meet the functional needs of the user. Our team is currently working on a 331-room hotel in California that will have a rooftop swimming pool and two restaurants. There is a plethora of codes that affect safety and safety needs of the user. The materials selected and how the materials might behave in a fire are critical. Ergonomic issues as well as ADA requirements and many other factors must be considered.

Unqualified designers may unknowingly violate safety codes, putting the end user at risk because they do not have a clear understanding and have not passed examinations for competency.

This legislation creates accountability to the people we serve in our profession. You can support this effort by sending a letter to Representative Brian Egolf.

Lisa Samuel ASID, IIDA, is a Santa Fe native and principal of Samuel Design Group, located in the heart of downtown Santa Fe. She is an award-winning interior designer known for creating unique interiors imbued with warmth and elegance. Lisa (info@samueldesigngroup.com) is passionate about good design that supports well-being.

An example of the detailed drawings employed by interior designers