2008 Milestones

Raison D’Etre: Crafting an Historical Narrative of the History of Interior Design, the first IDEC sponsored design history symposium, brings together scholars from across the globe. It contributes to a comprehensive history of the profession of interior design by documenting the contributions of people, organizations, and firms. Hosting the symposium before an annual conference helped boost recognition of IDEC as a contributor to the investigation and recording of interior design history. Additionally, it helped to increase connections, communication, and collaboration among those who are documenting interior design’s history. Keynote speaker Dr. Penny Sparke of Kingston University, London, opened the event with an inspiring lecture, “The Modern Interior Revisited.” Fifteen papers on a variety of topics were presented. Symposium coordinators are Bridget May and John Turpin.