Interior Design

In the first quarter, students explore foundational concepts in design theory and technical knowledge, beginning to apply this knowledge through project-based work. Students will learn how to manipulate theories and concepts in order to create strong solutions in interior environments. This quarter provides an understanding of a global perspective on human achievements in architecture, interior design, and the decorative arts and their relevance to modern life. Fundamental technical skills in drafting and digital programs will be introduced and by the end of the quarter, students will be able to draw on and apply their new knowledge and skills to projects in the upcoming quarters.

Students will experiment with and apply design concepts this quarter to create effective solutions for residential interior environments. Courses focus on the various materials and components used in the industry, providing first-hand knowledge of how to implement them in design solutions. Students will be introduced to the quality, quantity and application of lighting in interior spaces and will explore various methods to visually represent design concepts to clients through drawing, rendering and computer drafting techniques. The primary focus of this quarter is developing an applied understanding of the design process used in the practice of interior design.

Quarter 3 takes a closer look into the human, environmental, and “universal/barrier-free” aspects of Interior Design and space planning. Students will be challenged with 3D spatial problem-solving and exploring the connections between interior and exterior spaces. Courses explore the environmental and sustainable factors that influence the selection and design of materials and components and discover innovations through hands-on experimentation, independent and group research, site visits, and guest lectures. Students begin to develop a more personal and visually accurate style of visually presenting their projects while exploring construction systems, components, and methods used in wood frame and residential construction.

The programming process is integral to the practice of interior design and this quarter familiarizes students with planning concepts, furniture, and finish specifications associated with commercial design with a focus on hospitality concepts. Students will create computer-generated 3D models and explore rendering techniques for conceptual design and presentation drawings. Courses explore the construction and detailing of interior components such as floors, walls, and ceiling systems, as well as millwork, developing an understanding of how to accurately draw and design details. Students will develop advanced lighting drawings for commercial spaces including details and specifications resulting in creative and functional solutions. The emphasis this quarter is placed on the application of concepts through the use of technical criteria, specifications, layout, and building system coordination.

This quarter, students develop tools and techniques to research and apply Building Code and Universal Design regulations to interior environments. Students will also learn about current sustainable practices and rating systems such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, Passive House, and WELL Building and how to assess and apply strategies in design projects. Building systems for typical commercial spaces are also covered, enabling students to communicate more effectively with other design professionals such as architects, engineers, contractors, and building officials, who are all partners in an integrated design process. Systems such as construction systems, sustainable construction strategies, power distribution systems, mechanical systems, including HVAC and plumbing, energy management, data/voice communication systems, security, and acoustics will be studied. Students will advance their skills in various CAD software programs currently used in the industry by creating a full set of working drawings. Additional emphasis will be placed on the application of concepts in retail and healthcare design.

Students will focus on improving and developing their conceptual skills, refining schematic design concepts, preparing final drawings, and improving their visual presentation skills. Courses explore the various theories, approaches, and furniture applications implemented in the design of today’s small, medium and large corporate offices. Students will explore influential designers and design theories from the 20th and 21st centuries considering their relevance and application from a global perspective. Students also start to compile and prepare a preliminary portfolio with the knowledge and tools required to complete a high-quality academic and professional portfolio in multiple formats. Under the mentorship of a Practicum sponsor, students will experience the first of two work placements in the interior design profession that is relevant to their interests and level of ability.

In the seventh quarter, students will expand their knowledge, practical use and application of the Building Code and Universal Design regulations to demonstrate their understanding of the interior designer’s responsibility to design with the health, safety, and welfare of the public in mind. Students will prepare a plan review and code analysis for their Capstone Project. Students will undertake investigative research using evidence-based design techniques to prepare a report which will be the basis for their Capstone Project, all the while advancing their 3D Computer-Aided Design skills through the exploration of additional 3D software to construct and render interior spaces. Students will examine business and professional practice relevant to interior design, concentrating on contracts, bidding, designer responsibilities, and professional ethics, as well as professional fees, billing, and insurance. The seventh quarter contains the second Practicum/work environment within firms, trades and providers of services within the Interior Design profession to further student understanding of the profession.

A significant portion of the final quarter will be implementing research findings from quarter 7 into a design solution for a Capstone project that will coincide with areas of interest students would like to pursue in Interior Design. Student projects will address a real and tangible need within the community and students will present the final solution to the community, design industry, and faculty members. Students will produce and coordinate a full set of drawings, demonstrating their understanding of the assembly of the individual parts of a project into one final cohesive drawing package. During this quarter, students also finalize their Interior Design portfolio, website, and social media, which will help in presenting their abilities to potential employers after graduation.