By Gloria Ikibah
The Interior Designers Association of Nigeria (IDAN) has said there is the need to safeguard the future of interior design in Nigeria, by embracing a blend of multigenerational and futuristic aesthetics and designs to drive inclusion.
President of the association, Dr Jennifer Chukwujekwu, stated this at an event to celebrate the 2024 World Interiors Day, on Friday in Lagos.
The IDAN President challenged members and the Design community to be more intentional about their Design Principles and even as she said their work can used as initiators of change in society, through design advocacy.
She asserted that stakeholders across the interior design ecosystem had the unique privilege and duty to shape an environment that would foster connection, inclusivity and well-being.
According to her, designs must go beyond the present, anticipate the needs of future generations, as well as honour the legacy of those who lived in the past.
Naijablitznews.com reports that May 25, has been set aside annually to commemorate ‘World Interiors Day’, and this year, the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (I.F.I), selected the theme “The Growing G
enerational Gap: Improved Multi-Generational Future”.
According to her, this year’s theme is calling on designers’ to create spaces that would reflect aesthetical aspirations and meet the functional needs of people across all ages.
She said: While trends come and go, the essence of good design is timeless, and we should strive to create spaces that blend contemporary style with classic elements, ensuring they remain relevant and appealing across generations.
“We must embrace inclusive design principles, ensuring that our spaces are accessible and welcoming to people of all ages and abilities.
“This includes thoughtful considerations for mobility, sensory needs and comfort.
“Our designs should celebrate cultural heritage and diversity, reflecting the rich tapestry of our society”.
Chukwujekwu said that by using traditional elements and local craftsmanship, designers would create spaces that would resonate with a sense of identity and continuity.
She therefore, emphasized the need for stakeholders across the interior design ecosystem to embrace sustainability practices and integrate technology in envisioning the future of interior design.
“The integration of technology in our designs must be thoughtful and forwardthinking; from smart home systems to adaptive lighting and climate control, we need to ensure our spaces are equipped to evolve with technological advancements.
“Let us commit to continuing our professional development, staying abreast of emerging trends and technologies, and always striving for excellence in our craft.
“Together, we can design a future that bridges generations, creating environments that nurture, inspire and endure”, the IDAN President said.
In her address, Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, emphasized the need for stakeholders to commit to designing with empathy, sensitivity and inclusivity.
She said there is the need to create spaces that would meet the functional needs of all ages, inspire and connect people across generations.
According to her, this would help create of a future where generations would lead, learn and trade together, enriching communities.
“We are united by shared love for design and our collective commitment to fostering an environment that showcases the richness of diverse generational perspectives, using our creative talents to bridge the gaps that exist between generations.
“By doing so, we can create more harmonious and inclusive communities where everyone feels valued and understood.
“The theme of today’s event points to an inherent challenge: the communication gap between different age groups which can lead to misunderstanding, isolation or loss of valuable knowledge and experience.
“However, design has a pathway to address and overcome these challenges, and in creating spaces that encourage dialogue and interaction, we can facilitate greater understanding and cooperation between generations, ensuring that wisdom of the past is not lost,” adeleye said.
The Treasurer of IDAN, Titi Fowora, said that the association was determined to be a steward of the environment by advancing the built environment in trans-generational design practices.
“The idea is to leave the environment better that one met it; hence, the importance of using materials that are sustainable, eco-friendly, recyclable and reusable.
“We have to be as green as possible, as forward-thinking as possible, and design not just for ourselves but design for the future so that people do not feel the need to constantly reinvent the wheel or re-design,” she said.
Also, Professor of Architecture at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Dolapo Amole, that there was the need to fill the gaps in design created by generational differences to drive harmony, productivity, innovation and a strong community.
Prof. Amole said: “In design, bridging the gap is understanding the differences, adopting technology, providing variety of spaces, amenities and opportunities and an inclusive process to preserve the future of design”.
Also the Association’s Public Relations Officer, Andrew Adeniji encouraged all practicing Interior Design Professionals to get registered and join IDAN while listing out some of the vital benefits of joining the association as the sole global voice and authority for Interior professionals in Nigeria.
Naijablitznews.com reports that this year’s theme is a call to action on issues such as accessibility, inclusion, diversity, wellness and safety.
It is also to showcase their commitment to the profession and the importance of design in the settings and surroundings of homes, institutions and communities.
The 2024 IFI World Interiors Day had in attendance professionals, experts, and enthusiasts to acknowledge, uplift, and applaud design for interiors and its influence.