Episode 20

Unpacking Interior Design Certification & the Designer vs. Decorator Debate with Molly Kunselman

Published on: 25th September, 2024

In this episode, we sit down with Molly Kunselman, an experienced interior designer and former interior design program coordinator at Montgomery College, to explore some of the most pressing and often confusing topics in the design world today. We delve deep into the evolving definition of interior design, how it differs from interior decoration, and why understanding this distinction matters for aspiring designers.

Key Discussion Points:

- Designer vs. Decorator: We break down the difference between interior designers and decorators, discussing the roles, responsibilities, and the public’s misconceptions about these terms.

- Certification and Education: Molly shares her journey through the world of interior design education, from earning her Master’s at the Corcoran College of Art & Design to teaching at Montgomery College. She explains the complexities and issues surrounding certifications like NCIDQ and the role of accrediting bodies like CIDA in shaping the future of design education.

- The Evolution of Design Laws: How legal changes have affected the industry, and what these changes mean for designers today, especially those working in places with varying regulations like Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

- The Rise of Interior Architecture: We discuss the increasing popularity of “interior architecture” and how it’s influencing the broader design industry, affecting accessibility and the way we value design work.

- The Path to Certification: Molly offers advice for aspiring designers looking to get certified and the steps involved in pursuing an NCIDQ certification.

- Navigating Industry Changes: We tackle the challenges aspiring designers face when navigating industry jargon, regulations, and professional terms, especially in a rapidly changing field.

- Design Accessibility: How these shifts in education, certification, and legal requirements influence the accessibility of interior design as a career and service.

Whether you're a new designer navigating these industry shifts or a seasoned pro curious about the evolution of design certification, this episode provides valuable insights into the professional and legal landscape of interior design. Tune in to get answers to some of the most critical questions in the design world today!

Connect with Molly:

Instagram: @mkdinteriors

Website: www.mkdinteriors.com

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About the Podcast

Behind the Drapery
Business Advice for Aspiring Designers and Design Enthusiasts
Ever thought about starting your own business as an interior designer? Join Liz Levin (nationally published, design entrepreneur of 20 years) as she interviews experts, colleagues and creatives to pull back the curtain on the design industry.
Whether you're passionate about design, eager to start your design business, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, we're here to open the doors for you.

About your host

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Liz Levin

Based in Washington, D.C., Liz Levin launched her eponymous design studio in 2004 with a focus on creating uniquely modern and livable homes. Just three years after launching her first design business, Liz was named a “Face of the Future” by The Washington Post. She was featured by The Post, again, in 2011, for her work in the DC Design House.
Emphasizing a fresh approach to every project, she is inspired by the unique elements of each home she designs. Her work has appeared in Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, Coastal Living, Washingtonian, DC Modern Luxury, Home & Design and LUXE.
She also coaches aspiring interior designers on growing their own successful design businesses via her online education The Design Business Accelerator at DesignBizToolkit.com She currently lives in Bethesda, Maryland with her husband, two daughters and two doodles.