
Honolulu’s interior design business is expected to grow by 20 percent by 2020, a milestone that will help the state climb to No. 1 in the nation in interior design revenue, according to a report released Monday.
The report from the National Association of Interior Designers said Hawaii will see a 25 percent increase in interior designers and a 15 percent increase on the design industry as a whole by 2020.
The increase is attributed to a strong economy, an improving housing market and a strong start-up market.
The National Association says that the new report will help inform the construction of an effective national architecture and design curriculum and help guide the development of state policies that will enhance design jobs and local economies.
“The rising tide lifts all boats, and we must all get on board to help lift our state,” said Hawaii Gov.
David Ige.
“Hawaii is poised to join the ranks of the top-ranked states for interior design in 2020, and the National Architectural Association, a nonprofit representing the nation’s leading architects and interior designers, will continue to serve as the lead industry association.”
The report also notes that the number of interior design professionals has risen in Hawaii from about 1,300 in 2000 to more than 4,500 in 2020.
The NADELA report found that Hawaii was one of the most diverse places in the country, with over 90 percent of the population being white, Latino and Asian.
The report also noted that Hawaii had a large and vibrant creative economy, with the largest number of high-tech startups in the state.
“We are working to transform the economy, our state and our people, and it is critical that we continue to develop our unique culture and our innovative design skills,” said Ige in a statement.
“By 2020, I’m confident that Hawaii will be recognized as one of America’s most vibrant, creative and diverse states.”