British Institute of Interior Design

Designers turned out in record numbers last week to enjoy a day-long programme of invaluable education and networking events, including the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID)'s Annual General Meeting (AGM), its inaugural Annual Lecture and the annual BIID Summer Party. The AGM took place at RIBA's London HQ, Portland Place, London on Wednesday 29th June. BIID President, Jenny Gibbs outlined the Institute's extensive achievements in the year and also looked forward to new initiatives designed to help members succeed in their businesses and maintain the high professional standards required of BIID membership. Jenny's review covered a series of significant developments over the past twelve months. These included:

• a continuing voice for the interior design industry in Government through the BIID's presence on the Construction Industry Council and associated Groups improving Building Codes and Regulations.
• the outstanding BIID Retrofit Conference and inaugural BIID Retrofit and Sustainable Product Awards.
• the publication of the BIID/RIBA Contract - ID10 as part of a growing suite of professional publications now available to interior design practitioners;
• a series of trade missions and development initiatives to help grow business opportunities for members overseas, including continuing representation on the International Federation of Interior Designers / Architects (IFI);
• successful BIID Regional Roadshows in Brighton and Glasgow;
• the revision of the Group Practice Scheme to build strong working relationships with key group practices;
• a new CPD directory for Industry Partner members and a series of successful business showcase and networking events;
• the first Annual Forum in March allowing members a platform to exchange ideas on important issues;
• and, key improvements in member communications, including a new e-newsletter, the @BIIDtalk twitter account and a dedicated BIID discussion Group on LinkedIn;

Preceding the AGM, the BIID's first-ever Annual Lecture, delivered by author, broadcaster and management consultant Peter York, also proved exceptionally popular and a packed afternoon session saw Colin Jones, a partner at Hewitsons and head of the Cambridge Construction Team enlighten designers on the legal implications arising from selling, supplying and sourcing FF&E. Throughout the day, delegates also took the opportunity to talk to BIID industry partners in a special showcase hosted in the RIBA Gallery. Those taking part here include Ben Whistler, RSAV Solutions, Samuel Heath, Muralto, S.M.K. srl, Sandringham Carpets, Deanswood, Savoir Beds, Easyart Ltd and Smith of Derby. "Today has been a wonderfully useful, educational and entertaining day for BIID members" enthused Jenny Gibbs. "We are delighted that so many designers attended our talks, the AGM and the evening Summer party. The feedback has been incredibly positive and I can confirm that the Institute is in excellent shape as we look forward to more growth and greater success in the year ahead".