Ask Ida Q&A

Question - How does the NRC rating work on acoustic ceiling tile? Is a higher NRC number better?

Answer - The Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) is a rating from 0 to 1, with 0 having no absorption of sound and 1 absorbing all sound. Most acoustic ceiling tiles are between .7 and .9 to be effective.
A higher NRC number is not always better. Too much absorptive properties can make a room sound “dead” and stop ambient reflections around the space. A good practice is to use closer to .7 NRC in enclosed spaces like meeting rooms and private offices, and closer to .9 NRC in open plan office areas, along with a sound masking system.

Networking

Interior design is a networking industry. We find new clients, we seek information from product reps, and we engage with other design disciplines and contractors. Our career and business success is impacted by our networking results.
Although many people don’t consider themselves comfortable networking and talking to strangers, they develop this skill to benefit their career and business. It can seem intimidating for junior designers and students, as well as anyone who is shy, an introvert, or has social anxiety.  
What can hold us back is not wanting to go alone to an event. You can plan to arrive with a friend, colleague or co-worker, or plan to meet up with someone there. You will often find attendees like to talk about design-related topics and there is so much to learn from talking to people. 
Consider networking opportunities beyond the usual industry events like IDA’s Urban Encounters trade show or a supplier’s event. This could be asking someone for an informational interview for a job you are interested in, asking someone for an introduction, or volunteering on an IDA committee. Consider attending one or more of the great networking events listed in The Press section of the newsletter.

Mentoring Minute 

Senior Interior Designers are subject-matter experts.

As you work toward the high-bar jump to becoming a senior designer, be patient. Being a subject-matter expert is what separates the junior and intermediate designers from the senior designers, and that takes years in this challenging profession. Don’t worry too much about your actual job title for the first 10 years of your career. Instead, focus on being a lifelong learner, your personal and professional growth, and maintaining a creative outlet outside of work. In due time you will be a senior interior designer and an expert in your field.