The United Arab Emirates will host the prestigious IFI General Assembly and Design Congress 2009 to be 7 - 12 November 2009. The International Federation of Interior Architects and Designers (IFI), the world body of Interior Architecture and Design professionals recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the UAE based Association of Professional Interior Designers (APID), the representative body of the industry, confirming that the United Arab Emirates will host this important biannual event.

The European Commission has opened online public consultation on the working document "Design as a driver of user-centred innovation." Open until 26 June, the results may lead to future joint European action including non-binding cooperation, sharing good practice, and establishing benchmarks.

The 2009 theme for World Interior Day is “Interiors that Last.” The 21st century has seen a constant evolution of change, and this World Interiors Day, we will look at the places and spaces that have stood the test of time. Either by their adaptability or in the high standard of original quality, these places have remained usable or enjoyable as much today as when they were originally designed.