International Interior Design Association (IIDA)

The International Interior Design Association is a professional networking and educational association of 12,000 members in 30 chapters around the world. IIDA works to enhance quality of life through excellence in interior design. For IIDA headquarters, located in the Merchandise Mart building in Chicago, different specialties of interior design are represented through residential, hospitality, commercial, or corporate interiors. The space also presents a broad range of furniture and finish manufacturers. Reflecting the importance of sustainability as ethically inherent to the field, the space is designed not only to achieve a LEED-CI Gold rating, but also to serve as a case study for visiting interior designers. Energy efficient lighting, lamps, and occupancy and daylighting controls are used throughout the space. All wood veneer and components in the space were harvested from local, sustainably managed forests. The fabrics consist of natural and recycled fibers, and all paints are VOC-free. The layout of the open office area prioritizes direct views of the outdoors for a healthy staff. The space includes a state-of-the-art learning center with a multi-functional layout featuring pivoting glass walls to accommodate receptions, dinners, lectures, or exhibits.