For 60 years, the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) has been redefining spaces and shaping the future of design in the Philippines and beyond

Words Mika Reyes
Photos courtesy of Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID)
October 21, 2024

October 5, 2024, marked a significant milestone for the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) as it celebrated its 60th anniversary in grand style at the historic Centro de Turismo Intramuros. This prestigious event brought together a constellation of the country’s design luminaries, industry partners, and esteemed guests, all gathered to commemorate six decades of unwavering commitment to advancing the interior design profession in the Philippines.

The evening's festivities were presided over by PIID’s Board of Directors, led by National President Paolo Castro. Joining him were Vice President Cyndi Fernandez-Beltran, Secretary Jose Enrico Santiago, Treasurer Lorenzo Valencia III, and Executive Directors Carla Leonor, Rossy Rojales, Katherine Correa, Carmel Lim-Regala, and Christine Villamora. The event was further graced by the presence of the Council of Fellows, Interior Design Educators, PRC Interior Design Board members, and influential industry collaborators, making it a true convergence of visionaries in the field.

The chosen venue, nestled within the former San Ignacio Church, was a spectacular backdrop for the night’s celebrations. This reimagined architectural marvel stood as a symbol of the transformative power of design—an apt metaphor for PIID's influence on the industry. Over the past six decades, PIID has played a pivotal role in shaping the interior design landscape in the Philippines, not only through its members' artistic contributions but through policy-making, education, and fostering professional growth.

Since its founding in 1964, PIID has championed the professionalization of interior design. Its landmark achievement came in 1983 with the establishment of the country’s first Interior Design Licensure Examination, a critical step in standardizing the profession. By 1992, PIID had earned recognition as the official Accredited Professional Organization (APO) for interior designers, further solidified by the passage of the Philippine Interior Design Act (R.A. No. 8534) in 1998—a monumental legislative victory that formalized the practice of interior design as a regulated profession.

Yet PIID’s reach extends beyond Philippine shores. With memberships in the Asia Pacific Space Designers Association (APSDA) and the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI), PIID has cemented its place on the global stage. The organization has played host to numerous prestigious international events, establishing the Philippines as a hub for world-class interior design and contributing to the global discourse on spatial innovation.

The 60th anniversary celebration was not just a reflection on past triumphs but also a moment to look ahead. PIID’s commitment to innovation and regional growth was evident with the establishment of chapters throughout the country and the launch of its digital platforms, including its official website, social media channels, and the trailblazing online show, Interior Design Central PH. This digital expansion highlights PIID’s adaptability in a rapidly evolving world, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of industry trends and education.

One of the most significant recent milestones was the inaugural Manila Interior Design Summit (MIDS) in April 2023. This summit underscored PIID’s dedication to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the design community, bringing together professionals from across the country to exchange ideas and spark new creative conversations.

As the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers celebrates 60 years of excellence, its influence remains undeniable. From its humble beginnings to its present-day role as a thought leader in design, PIID’s history is a testament to the transformative power of design to enrich lives, shape spaces, and inspire future generations of interior designers.

For more information on the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers, you can contact Director for Public Relations, IDr. Carla Mae D. Leonor, via email at info@piid.org.ph or phone at +639175582536.