Interior designers group joins Realty Fair 2014

THE Philippine Institute of Interior Design will be joining for the first time a real estate firm in Cebu.

The Cebuano market is a good niche for design and every Filipino deserves a really good space. That is why we create trendy and functional space for all from low end to high end, said Hermie Ray Oplado, president of the Philippine Institute of Interior Design (PIID)-Cebu Chapter.

For the first time, PIID is joining a real estate fair in Cebu that will happen on Sept. 19 to 23 on the third floor of Pacific Mall in Mandaue City. Organizers said the Realty Fair 2014 is the biggest real estate festival since it will gather 25 prominent property developers with project sites located south and north of Cebu Province. The participation of 60 members of PIID-Cebu is aimed to make choosing homes much easier since professional designers will educate buyers especially on style, innovation, and functional models.

The Philippines is the first country to formulate laws governing the Interior Design profession and we are truly glad that the Phil. Interior Design Act of 2012 has been amended and enforces stricter rules. The law was born out of the need to safeguard the local profession and protect the rights and talents of Filipino interior designers, Oplado explained.

He said the need to educate Filipinos on the difference between a mere decorator and professional interior designer. The latter must pass the government board examination and must undergo training to address safety measures.

If you have a natural talent for arranging things, you are just a decorator, said PIID Vice President for External Affairs Janet Lee. An interior designer goes beyond decorating. Professional interior designers address safety, materials and space planning, and make use of scientific methods for measurements and color theory for comfortable living.

Under the new law, the interior designer will provide the client a one-year guarantee from the time of the formal turnover to the client. Interior designers follow the standard building code and they get clearances. Decorators, architects, furniture makers, suppliers, etc. cannot call themselves interior designers. And foreign interior designers must get temporary permits and collaborate with a local counterpart.

The Realty Fair 2014 is a combined expo to celebrate lifestyle choices with design ideas to fit any property buyers budget and way of life. EAP

Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on September 18, 2014.

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Interior designers group joins Realty Fair 2014