The Maine Interior Design Association (MIDA) Unites Design Professionals, Builds Strong Communities, and Empowers Members.

From our beginning in 1976, founder Don Lavallee focused on doing his best to make things better and inspired others to do the same. He cared deeply about our team, our work, and our community. Today, the tradition of giving back remains an important part of what makes Lavallee Brensinger Architects a rewarding place to work and create.

We are excited to spotlight Interior Designer, Renée Bissonnette, who is currently carrying on a Lavallee Brensinger tradition of serving as a Board Member for the Maine Interior Design Association (MIDA).

1. What is your current role/position?

I am a Board Member for the Maine Interior Design Association.

2. What does this organization bring to the community?

The  Maine Interior Design Association (MIDA) dates back to 1992, driven by the objective of representing the collective interests of Interior Design professionals in Maine. MIDA’s primary focus revolves around advocating for the recognition of Maine’s industry design professionals and their qualifications within the framework of the Maine State Title Act. 

MIDA actively contributes to various non-profit organizations within their community on an annual basis. By supporting these causes, MIDA demonstrates its ongoing commitment to upholding their mission of representing the voice of Maine Interior Designers. Furthermore, they strive to educate the public about the field of Interior Design and provide their members with valuable networking opportunities, ensuring their professional growth and development.

3. Why is this organization important to you?

This organization is important to me to encourage comradery among the design community in Maine. Volunteering with MIDA is beneficial, not just for professional connections (many of our resource reps are also part of the MIDA community), but MIDA also acts as a resource to emerging designers and encourages and supports professional certification within the field. This, in turn, protects our profession as one that requires specific education and training. I’m sure you’ve seen the “not a decorator” buttons in Massachusetts; we are lucky to have a Title Act in Maine and so are in the position of protecting the gravity of our profession rather than fighting for the recognition of it.

 

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About Renée Bissonnette