SIDS would like to draw members’ attention to the requirements under the Architects Act 1991 when providing services that may interface with architectural services.

Interior designers play an important and complementary role in the built environment sector and frequently work alongside architects and other professionals. Members should, however, be mindful of the requirements of the Architects Act when describing and promoting the services they offer.

Members should take particular care to:

• Accurately describe their professional qualifications and the scope of services they provide;
• Not use the title “architect”, the abbreviation “Ar.”, or other related titles, terminologies or descriptions suggesting that they are architects, unless they are registered with the Board of Architects and holds a valid practising certificate;
• Not advertise or represent themselves, their businesses or their services as being qualified or authorised to provide architectural services , where and when they are not so qualified or authorised to do so;
• Review how their services are described on websites, social media, advertisements, business profiles, proposals and other promotional materials, to ensure that these do not give clients or the public the impression that they are architects or authorised to provide architectural services; and
• Engage or work with an appropriately registered architect (QP) or licensed architectural practice where architectural services regulated under the Architects Act are required.

These requirements are set out principally in section 10 of the Architects Act 1991.

Members should note that a contravention of these requirements may constitute an offence under the Act and may be subject to the penalties provided under the Act.

If there is any doubt about the interpretation of section 10, members may seek clarification from the Board of Architects.

Members are encouraged to be clear with clients about their professional roles, engagements and the scope of services they provide, particularly where interior design services interface with architectural services.

This advisory is intended to promote awareness and good professional practice, and to support constructive collaboration between interior designers, architects and other built environment professionals.

Warmest regards,
Society of Interior Designers, Singapore (SIDS)