After several years in decline, the Interior Design industry as a whole is starting to see a modest recovery. The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Interior Design Billings Index ended 2011 with positive scores supported by renovation and remodeling projects.

Report highlights include:

Design Demographics: According to the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report, there were approximately 40,120 employed interior designers in the United States in May 2010 nearly a 25 percent decrease since May 2008. Data indicates a 16% decrease in the number of specialized design firms since 2008. While the industry has contracted, interior designers are finding employment as sole practitioners, self-employed consultants and in design-related businesses.

Technology Trends: Technology continues to play a major role in the way designers work and communicate with clients and colleagues. Designers who adapt will find opportunities to build their practice and create interactive environments that respond to an increasingly high-tech, high-touch society.

A New Era for Interior Design: As the design industry evolves, interior designers will play an expanding role in addressing critical environmental and societal challenges in such areas as aging, wellness and healthcare, education and urbanization.

“There is no doubt that uncertainty in the financial markets and shifting socio-economics will continue to have implications for the interior design industry,” says Randy Fiser, executive vice president and CEO for ASID. “However, from the types of buildings people will need, to the types of services they will seek, there continue to be boundless opportunities for designers who recognize these changes, adapt and plan for the future.” 

A full copy of the ASID 2012 Environmental Scanning Report can be downloaded online.