The University of San Carlos (USC) hosted an interior design research conference dubbed KIDLAT (Know our Interior Design Leading Academic Theses) on May 28–30, 2025.

On its fourth iteration, KIDLAT 4.0, held in partnership with the Council of Interior Design Educators (CIDE) and the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), brought together interior design educators, students, and professionals for three days of impactful academic exchange and collaborative innovation. This marked the first time KIDLAT was held outside the NCR.

Under the theme, “Beyond Boundaries: A Fresh Perspective in Innovation,” KIDLAT 4.0 kicked off with a joint CIDE and PIID General Assembly, where representatives from design schools and professional organizations aligned efforts in advancing design education in the Philippines.

On the second day, six professors and 13 students conducted lightning talks, showcasing practice-based studies and research on interior environments, sustainability, and social impact. A student exhibit at the SAFAD Lobby also highlighted exceptional undergraduate design research and creative outputs. 

Meanwhile, USC Vice President for Academics (VPAA) Fr. Jesuraj Anthoniappen, SVD, Ph.D., welcomed hybrid participants. Patrick John Lim, Ph.D., Director of the USC Research Development Extension and Publication Office (RDEPO), delivered the keynote on the second day and emphasized the critical role of nurturing research collaborations in the next generation of designers.

The three-day conference concluded with off-campus activities and tours (see below) to various furniture manufacturing plants and heritage centers, bridging academic learning with industry practices and local traditions. KIDLAT 4.0 reaffirmed USC’s leadership in interior design education and its unwavering commitment to driving design-driven innovation.

With reporting from the Department of Architecture, Interior Design Program