International Design Society Opens Diversity in Design Pipeline

June 20, 2023  by HFBusiness Staff in Business Strategy, Designer Weekly, Industry   

Along with a comprehensive prize package that includes a financial scholarship of $10,000 toward tuition, five students entering their senior year at an accredited interior design program will interact with and receive mentorship from selected interior design professionals to further their upcoming careers within the industry.

Invitations to key industry events, exclusive training, and a two-year membership with IDS are also included. The deadline to apply is June 28.

“IDS is thrilled to partner with Thermador once again on this important initiative of building a diverse pipeline of interior designers,” said Jenny Cano, executive director of The Interior Design Society.

This program is a meaningful collaborative of people and companies who are dedicated to providing an invaluable experience to the future of our industry which is a key component to our purpose as an organization.”

"As a brand that has consistently remained at the forefront of design and innovation, it is equally important to us to drive diversity in design and take a leadership position in our industry," says Beatriz Sandoval, head of marketing at Thermador.

"Thermador acknowledges the necessity for greater inclusivity in the design field and takes pride in nurturing an environment where design students have the freedom to delve deep into their talents, passions, and creativity in their careers. This program offers unwavering support, a networking channel, and mentorship opportunities to help set up students for success."

Prominent industry leaders will also participate in the Diversity in Design Pipeline by serving as judges for the program. The panel will select five incoming college seniors to receive this opportunity to jumpstart their careers with necessary tools upon graduation.

The panel of judges includes House Beautiful Market Director Carisha Swanson; HGTV Design Star Alum Justin Q. Williams; International Designer Tyler Wisler; David Charette, Founding Principal of Britto Charette; and Award-Winning Brazilian Interior Designer Juliana Oliveira.

“It’s an honor to be a part of this great initiative for a second consecutive year and looking forward to the dose of inspiration from the talented students that will fuel the next gen of design,” says Juliana Oliveira, owner & principal designer of Beyond Interior Design.

“Within our industry there’s an abundance of progress to be made in order to advance diversity and inclusion and this program is a great step towards building a more equitable and inclusive environment for design professionals.”

To further provide the recipients with the necessary knowledge they will need to successfully embark on their up-and-coming careers within the industry, Thermador and IDS invite professional interior designers to participate in the program by lending their expertise as a guiding resource to student winners.

Five chosen trade mentors will act as subject matter experts throughout the yearlong program as outlined by Thermador and will be invited to attend industry events hosted by the brand and IDS.

Interior design students who believe they have a unique perspective interested in the Diversity in Design Pipeline, along with interior designers interested in becoming program mentors, can both apply via the Interior Design Society (IDS) online application portal now through June 28.

Applicants will be reviewed by the judging panel before the winners and selected mentors are announced in August 2023.

For more information about the Diversity in Design Pipeline initiative, please visit the IDS website.