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IDAK professional standards and ethical guidelines.

How We Practice

Standards & Ethics

Governance

IDAK promotes responsible, ethical and competent interior design practice. The principles below define how IDAK members are expected to conduct themselves with clients, collaborators, the public and the wider profession. They are not aspirational — they are binding.

Principles

The 12 Core Values

Professional Excellence

High-quality services rooted in creativity, technical knowledge, client care and continuous improvement.

Integrity

Honesty, transparency, fairness and ethical responsibility in all professional relationships.

Unity

A unified profession speaks with one voice. Fragmentation weakens recognition, influence and advocacy.

Recognition

Interior designers are key built environment professionals. Their contribution must be formally acknowledged at every project stage.

Innovation

Creativity and technology must evolve together — from AI-supported design to sustainable materials and digital tools.

Public Safety and Wellness

Interior environments affect health, safety and wellbeing. Responsible practice protects users.

Sustainability

Responsible material use, waste reduction, durability and support for local production and circular design.

Inclusivity

Spaces must serve all people. Universal design, accessibility, dignity and cultural sensitivity are non-negotiable.

Collaboration

Interior design succeeds through teamwork with architects, engineers, contractors, suppliers and government.

Knowledge and Research

Evidence-based practice and lifelong learning through CPD, research, publications and academic partnerships.

Industry Empowerment

Strengthening the entire design ecosystem: designers, manufacturers, suppliers, contractors and students.

Service to Society

Design must ultimately improve human dignity, wellness, productivity, safety and quality of life.

Public Safety

Protecting the Public

When interior design is handled by unqualified persons, the result can be unsafe layouts, poor material choices, uncomfortable environments, wasteful spending and costly mistakes. IDAK-verified members are bound by a code of conduct that puts client safety and transparent practice first. If you are hiring an interior designer, look for IDAK membership.

Professional Accountability

IDAK maintains professional accountability. Members found in breach of ethical standards are subject to the Association's disciplinary framework.