The development of the design world, especially interior design, has experienced rapid development along with changes in world design trends and the rapid dissemination of information via the internet and social media. The function and beauty of the design of the space according to needs cannot be separated from the inspiration of cultural wealth and the latest technological assistance.
It is within this framework of thought that the Indonesian Interior Designers Association (HDII) held an International Interior Design Forum (IIDF), on 4-5 September in Bali, attended by the interior designers’ community from all over Indonesia as well as eight countries in Asia-Pacific. IIDF – an exhibition initiated by HDII as a forum for the exchange of ideas and collaboration among Indonesian and international interior designers, carrying the theme: Technology & Culture: Asia-Pacific’s Perspectives, and opened by the Minister of Tourism & Creative Economy and the Minister of PUPR (Public Works & Housing People). The IIDF, held for the second time, contains a series of activities, such as workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and networking activities among the participants.
“I welcome this international forum because interior design is one of the important elements in the tourism industry, as well as a major sub-sector in Indonesia’s creative economy”, said Sandiaga Uno, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy in his remarks.
“I agree with the theme as appointed, technology and culture are two elements that can reinforce each other in interior design, which has a positive impact on the comfort and health of people living in it. We are already culturally strong, and now we have to be strong in technology too”, added Basuki Hadimuljono, Minister of Public Works & Public Housing (PUPR), who also opened this event.
Meanwhile, Nyoman Nuarta, the maestro of Indonesian artists also shared his experiences when creating his monumental works, including mega projects such as the National Capital that is currently under development. Rudy Dodo, a senior Indonesian interior designer participated in presenting the design process of international hotel projects, where his inspiration is taken from the grandeur and the cultural richness of the archipelago.
“The challenge is very interesting as Indonesian culture is very diverse, not only Bali and Java, so when we succeed in displaying something unique in nature “Nusantara” or “Indonesia” which is inclusive and unique, that is an extraordinary achievement”, citing Rudy Dodo’s comments in his presentation in front of more than 150 seminar participants.
The third speaker, namely Eggarat Wongcharit, a multidisciplinary designer from Thailand, also shared his experience in designing furniture products and interior knick-knacks that are thick in their taste in Thai but well received in the international market.
“The key is how to understand our own culture, then based on that to create something relevant and acceptable to all. Don’t forget the contemporary taste or the present is also very important”, said Eggarat.
Chairman of the National HDII, Rohadi Sumardi expressed optimism about the future of the interior design industry in Indonesia. “Hearing and seeing their experiences and works, I believe this will be the future of the interior design world in Indonesia, I believe we will be able to compete at the global level”.
Regarding this IIDF event, Rohadi is determined to hold it every year, for the sake of the progress of the world of design in Indonesia, especially interior design. In addition to workshops and seminars, there is also a General Assembly of APSDA (Asia-Pacific Space Designers Association) or the Grand Meeting of the interior designer association throughout the Asia-Pacific, attended by seven associations from 7 countries.
APSDA President, Prof. Keat Ong stated that it is time for interior designers in the Asia-Pacific to unite and take a more active role to develop in their respective countries, and contribute to creating a better, more comfortable, and healthier place for its residents.
