Strategy & Partnerships

All our past documents can be found here.

The BIID has strategic partnerships at both national and international level with leading built environment and design organisations. 

Anti-Copying In Design (ACID)

https://www.acid.uk.com/

Anti Copying in Design (ACID) is the UK's leading membership and campaigning organisation dedicated to safeguarding intellectual property (IP) rights within the design sector. Founded in 1996, ACID's mission is to raise awareness about IP issues, promote respect for original design, and create a safer trading environment for designers. Key initiatives include the ACID IP Databank, which allows members to securely record their designs, serving as evidence in potential disputes. The organization also offers educational resources, legal support, and lobbying efforts to influence policy changes that strengthen design protection laws. Notably, ACID played a pivotal role in the 2014 Intellectual Property Act, which criminalized the intentional infringement of registered designs. Through these efforts, ACID empowers designers to protect their creative works and fosters a culture of respect for IP rights within the industry. The BIID is a partner of ACID.

Construction Industry Council (CIC)

https://www.cic.org.uk/

The Construction Industry Council (CIC) is the representative forum for professional bodies, research organisations, and specialist business associations in the UK construction industry. Established in 1988, CIC's mission is to improve the construction industry by collectively representing and supporting built environment professions. Key initiatives include the "Carbon Zero: The professional institutions' climate action plan," which coordinates efforts to address climate change, and the "Essential Principles Guide," promoting accessible and inclusive environments. CIC also supports the "Considerate Constructors Scheme," aiming to enhance the industry's image, and the "Green Construction Board," focusing on sustainable construction practices. Additionally, CIC offers a Health & Safety Certification course, providing a new route to the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card for professionals in the built environment and construction sector. The BIID is a full member of the Construction Industry Council (CIC).

Construction Skills Certification Scheme

https://www.cscs.uk.com/

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) is the leading skills certification scheme within the UK construction industry. Its primary mission is to ensure that individuals working on construction sites possess the appropriate training and qualifications for their specific roles, thereby enhancing safety and standards across the industry. CSCS issues various cards that serve as proof of a worker's qualifications and competencies. Key initiatives include the implementation of the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test, which applicants must pass to obtain a card, and the development of the CSCS Smart Check system, enabling employers to verify card authenticity efficiently. Additionally, CSCS is phasing out Industry Accreditation cards by December 31, 2024, to promote a fully qualified workforce. Through these efforts, CSCS aims to foster a competent and safety-conscious construction workforce in the UK. Full BIID members are eligible to apply for a Professionally Qualified Persons (PQP) CSCS card. 

Creative UK

https://www.wearecreative.uk/

Creative UK is an independent network dedicated to championing, connecting, supporting, and investing in the UK's creative industries. Their mission is to place creativity at the heart of the nation's culture, economy, and education system, fostering a world where creativity is valued and nurtured. Key initiatives include the Creative Growth Finance fund, which provides tailored investments and loans to creative businesses; the Creative Enterprise programme, offering business support and mentoring; and the Creative Catalyst Challenge Fund, supporting innovative projects with commercial potential. Additionally, Creative UK collaborates on film and television projects, such as the iFeatures programme and the BREAKOUT initiative with Netflix, to discover and support emerging filmmakers. Through these efforts, Creative UK aims to empower creative talent and drive innovation across the sector. The BIID is a member of Creative UK.

European Council of Interior Architects (ECIA)

https://ecia.net/

The European Council of Interior Architects (ECIA) is a professional network representing interior architects and designers across Europe. Established in 1992, it comprises 20 national organisations, collectively encompassing approximately 17,000 professionals. ECIA's mission is to represent and promote the qualified profession of interior architects/designers, providing a platform for exchanging best practices and endorsing common standards in education and professional profiles. Key initiatives include the "Building on Connections for a Stronger Profession" (BCSP) project, co-funded by the EU, which aims to professionalize the organisation and enhance the profession's recognition. BCSP encompasses six subprojects: Spider Models Research, Growing the Network, Exchanging Knowledge, ECIA Interior Award, Promoting the ECIA Charter, and Representing the Network. Additionally, ECIA supports the New European Bauhaus initiative, collaborating with various pan-European organizations to promote sustainable and inclusive design. The BIID is the representative UK member of the ECIA.

International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI)

https://ifiworld.org/

The International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI) is the global voice and authority for professional interior architects and designers. Established in 1963, IFI serves as a worldwide forum for the exchange and development of knowledge and experience in interior architecture and design. Its mission is to build a global community through cooperation and fellowship, raise awareness and recognition of design excellence, and expand the profession's influence across society and culture. Key initiatives include the IFI Interiors Declaration, a consensus-based vision statement on the purpose and value of interior architecture/design; the IFI Global Awards Program, which recognizes excellence in design outcomes; and the IFI Interior Architecture/Design Education Policy, aimed at setting global quality standards for education in the field. Through these efforts, IFI strives to improve life through design in an ever-changing world. The BIID is the representative UK member of the IFI.

RIBA

https://www.architecture.com/

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body dedicated to driving excellence in architecture. Its mission is to serve both its members and society by delivering better buildings and places, fostering stronger communities, and promoting a sustainable environment. RIBA's core initiatives include the RIBA Plan of Work, which organizes the process of briefing, designing, constructing, and operating building projects into eight stages, providing a definitive model for the design and construction process. Additionally, RIBA's 2034 Masterplan sets a strategic framework with long-term goals to guide its activities up to its 200th anniversary in 2034, ensuring the profession can not only survive but thrive through these efforts, RIBA aims to support architects in making the future a better place. The BIID publishes the BIID Interior Design Project Book and the RIBA/BIID professional contracts in partnership with RIBA.