Imagine a room void of any type of texture . A floor that is made of concrete with no pigmentation , or a floor that is raw plywood . Consider walls that have no windows or doors much less artwork . Imagine ceilings with no lighting fixtures . The expression that is individualistic character is seen through design . Good design can make us feel safe and it can make us happy . Bad design can make us uneasy and unhappy .
Design elements such as lighting , texture , color , and the use of space is involved with ergonomics , universal design , and biophilic design , the incorporation of nature and the use of art and sustainable goods . These elements directly impact the dimensions of social , emotional , intellectual , and occupational well-being .
Design solves problems . A beautifully designed space can intuitively allow us to accomplish tasks well . As interior designers and architects we understand how to design for human needs . Design balances and integrates both form and function . Designers create solutions that are much more than the sum of the parts — integrating not only physical needs but the aesthetic needs of the end user . Design truly impacts the human experience .
The American Society of Interior Designers ( ASID ) believes that design has the power to transforms lives . ASID serves the full range of the interior design profession and practice through the Society ’ s programs , networks , and advocacy . It thrives on the strength of cross-functional and interdisciplinary relationships among designers of all specialties , including workplace , healthcare , retail and hospitality , education , institutional , and residential . ASID leads interior designers in shared conversations around topics that matter : from evidenced-based and human-centric design to social responsibility , well-being , and sustainability . We showcase the impact of design on the human experience and the value interior designers provide .
Membership in ASID offers more than professional credibility . It connects members to a network of peers , thought leaders , and luminaries . Members engage in a variety of educational and leadership opportunities while growing in their career and keeping up with the latest trends and innovations . ASID membership offers the support you need to reach your full potential as a designer .
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lisa H . Fitzpatrick , M . A ., ASID is president of the Board of Directors of the ASID Washington Metro Chapter . She holds an M . A . in Interior Design and a B . S . in Human Ecology , is NCIDQ certified , and is a licensed interior designer in Washington , D . C . Her projects range from renovations to new construction and from contract design to residential design . Lisa is an adjunct faculty member in the interior design programs at Marymount University and Northern Virginia Community College . In order to give back to the community and expand the reaches of good design , Lisa participates in The 1 + program of Public Architecture which connects nonprofits with architecture and design firms willing to give of their time pro bono .
Photos , from top left : Ronald Reagan National Airport ; Single Family Home Addition in Process by Fitzpatrick Design Studio , Berlin , Maryland ; Shelter in Reykjavík , Iceland ; Single Family Home by Fitzpatrick Design Studio .
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