Get To Know The BIID Council Candidates

Council candidates from left to right: Fiona Watkins, Michael Schienke, Zaniz Jakubowski, Verity Coleman, Helen Hookway, Charmaine White

The BIID AGM takes place on Friday 20th September and will provide a chance for Registered Interior Designers to vote on their new Council. To help with the decision, we asked our candidates some quickfire questions.

In your opinion, what will be the biggest change to the interior design industry in the next 10 years?

Fiona Watkins:

AI will impact our industry and change how we work, with AI tools helping us to produce ourdesigns more effectively and efficiently.  The human factor cannot be discounted as interaction with our clients and connecting with them on an emotional level, is crucial to the spaces we design for them.

Michael Schienke:

AI will be a challenge to the industry, both for professionals who will have to start using it to keep up with the competition but also for clients who may be offered less professional services by others or be tempted to use it as a experience-substitute.
In a shorter term, with the UK economic situation changing, we need to be open to working abroad - we have a strong head start as being a “UK designer” still has a strong value abroad.

Zaniz Jakubowski:

Interior design will be transformed by AI-driven automation, fully immersive virtual environments, and sustainable, adaptive living spaces.

Verity Coleman:

Technology will increase access to the interior design industry for both designers and clients. Not only closing the geographical gaps between designers and clients enabling greater diversity and more opportunities for interior designers to work at all levels of the industry. 

Helen Hookway:

AI could have a massive impact on the industry - it’s up to us to harness its potential and use it to enhance our work and client experience. We need to make sure that the fundamental human experience of interior design is retained and that clients understand our essential role within this.

Charmaine White:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to play a pivotal role in the design process with AI-powered tools set to automate and enhance various aspects of design, such as space planning, materials selection, and trend prediction. With environmental concerns become increasingly important, the design industry will see a stronger emphasis on sustainability.

Why is being a member of a professional institute so important?
Fiona Watkins:

Being a member of the BIID is extremely important to me as it reassures my clients that I follow a code of conduct but also that I  have the knowledge and aptitude to enable them to entrust their project to me.  The resources available and advice from the institute has been an invaluable support to my career over the years. 

Michael Schienke:

We are only strong and organised when we are together. A well known and respected organisation is essential to both help its members but also to maintain a high level of professionalism to protect them and their clients.

Zaniz Jakubowski:

Being a member of a professional institute is important for staying updated with industry knowledge and standards, fostering valuable connections and enhancing credibility and trust with clients. 

Verity Coleman:

With so many self-employed and micro businesses within the industry, the ability to build relationships with peers in the same position is a key component of what makes the BIID so important. It goes without saying that the guidance and ongoing professional development are a must for all interior designers and the BIID really does lead on this front within the industry. 

Helen Hookway:

Being a member of a professional institute is a really important marker of quality assurance to clients and suppliers. It also provides a strong community of knowledge, support and kinship, which is key to building your career and enhancing your own enjoyment of it.

Charmaine White

In this rapidly evolving industry, being a member of a professional institute like the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) is more important than ever. Membership in a respected professional institute signifies adherence to high standards of competence, ethics, and professionalism. 

In three words, how would you describe your leadership style?
Fiona Watkins:

Collaborative, Inspiring, Instructive

Michael Schienke:

Organised planned goals 

Zaniz Jakubowski:

Collaborative, adaptive, empathetic.

Verity Coleman:

Inclusive, Enthusiastic, Authentic

Helen Hookway:

Collaborative, Strategic, Innovative

Charmaine White:

Supportive, Authentic and Personable

The agenda and all supporting documentation will be circulated to all members on Thursday 5th September 2024. Voting instructions will also be sent to BIID Registered Interior Designers on the same day. 

To attend the AGM on the 20th September, book here.