Interior design is a multi-faceted profession in which creative and technical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built interior environment. These solutions are functional, enhance the quality of life and culture of the occupants, and are aesthetically attractive. Designs are created in response to and coordinated with the building shell, and acknowledge the physical location and social context of the project. Designs must adhere to code and regulatory requirements, and encourage the principles of environmental sustainability. The interior design process follows a systematic and coordinated methodology, including research, analysis and integration of knowledge into the creative process, whereby the needs and resources of the client are satisfied to produce an interior space that fulfills the project goals.

Interior Designers of Canada, with the support of its seven provincial association members, provides a forum for the unified voice of Canadian interior designers, so that the profession continues to grow and receive recognition and respect, locally, nationally and internationally, from government, industry and the public sector.

Professional associations were formed to develop and maintain competency standards that meet the requirements of modern society. Their purpose is to ensure that the interior designers are being educated appropriately and practicing responsibly. Membership in these associations requires the successful completion of the international NCIDQ exam. These associations assist their members to increase their knowledge and skills through a system of Continuing Education.

Interior Designers of Canada is a national association of provincial interior design associations. It works with its seven provincial association members to advance the interior design profession and to promote high quality in education and practice from coast to coast. Designers must be members at the highest level of their provincial association to qualify to use the designation IDC with their names.

IDC represents Canadian designers in four significant areas:

1. Education
IDC supports quality assurance for interior design education programs in universities and colleges through affiliation with the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (formerly FIDER).  CIDA provides the foundation for excellence in the interior design profession by setting standards for education and accrediting academic program that meet those standards.  CIDA accreditation signifies that the interior design program is meeting educational requirements to prepare graduates for entry into the profession.

2. Professional Qualification
IDC recognizes the international NCIDQ qualifying exam. The exam is used throughout Canada and the United States.

3. Continuing Education
IDC is a partner in the system of continuing education used by the profession in Canada and the United States. Continuing education courses are developed by experts and approved by an international committee (IDCEC), which assign CEUs (Continuing Education Units) as a unit of credit. Courses cover the complete range of topics from building codes and barrier free design to business management.

4. Liaisions (link to activities and services)
IDC represents the Canadian Interior Design profession to the Federal Government and various organizations and forums. Through active participation IDC ensures that Canadian Interior Designers are represented internationally and kept informed on current issues.

Liability Insurance
IDC provides member provincial associations a group liability insurance program. For more info for member practicing interior designers : http://www.mumby.com/memos/dc_idc_.php