Ian Archibald has pushed the envelope creatively throughout his practice as well as dedicating extensive time to advancing the profession.

Ian founded Ian Archibald & Associates Pty Ltd, a building and Interior Design business in 1975, followed by Decollo, one year on. This strategy enabled distinction to occur between the supply arm of decorating goods and services (offered through Decollo) and the consulting and Interior Design services.
With Jo Archibald joining Decollo in 1978, the two businesses worked in parallel to design, produce and distribute ranges of hand printed fabrics and matching wallpapers. Decollo Fabric designs were sold on various base cloths throughout Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Hong Kong and have stood the test of time. Traces of the fabrics can still be found in some Merchant Builders houses of the era.

While residential work has been a major focus for Ian Archibald & Associates, the practice has also completed notable commercial projects. Early examples ranged from: the Victorian Grain Corporation offices; Armstrong Nylex extensions; Xerox and Océ Reprographics offices and showrooms Australia-wide; and assorted projects for the Victorian Dairy Industry Authority.

The mid 1980s saw Ian’s work orientated towards building design and building detailing. Several awards and commendations for Alterations and Additions, Multiple Dwelling Design, and Heritage Design – reflect the high calibre achieved. Examples of more recent commercial projects include: the fit-out of member and committee areas at the MCG; executive areas of the ANZ Bank head office and extensive hospitality projects through the Premier Hotel Group; the Sorrento Golf Club and Yarra Yarra Golf Club.

After joining the Society of Interior Designers of Australia (SIDA) Foundation Board in 2001 Ian has served as Executive Director since 2002 and is the current President (as of April 2013). Ian, who is also a DIA Fellow, upholds the ongoing work of the Foundation in establishing and supporting education and professional development to be of great significance in the future of interior design and interior decoration.

The DIA Hall of Fame recognises the achievements of Ian Archibald.