Interior designers need to be adept in fundamental concepts.
Interior designers are creative people with a keen understanding of the relationships between design elements such as color, line, space and lighting. An interior designer combines these elements to create dynamic and efficient residential and commercial spaces. Courses in interior design degree programs prepare students for entry-level positions as designers, space planners or merchandisers for architectural firms, design firms and corporations.
Design Fundamentals
Nearly every interior design curriculum list will include an introductory survey course that acquaints the student with basic principles of interior design. This class typically covers the basics of design elements such as color and line, as well as helps sharpen the student's eye for design and creative analysis. This introductory class serves as the springboard to more complex and in-depth design courses.
Lighting
In their first lighting course, design students gain knowledge of architectural lighting techniques and fixtures and the effects of different lighting on a design scheme. Students learn the basics of lighting design, including different types of fixtures and light sources and apply different lighting techniques to residential and commercial interiors. Once the course is completed, students should be able to understand and create lighting specifications and to develop their own personal lighting design schemes.
Textiles
In the introductory textiles class typically required for interior design degrees, students gain knowledge of fabrics, fibers and the design of textile products, as well as the production process for commonly used textile fabrics. Students also learn evaluate the profitability of textile fabrics and the influence of social, economic and cultural factors.
Computer-Aided Drafting
Nearly every component of today's aesthetic world has been designed using a computer, which is why it's essential for the interior design student to be proficient in computer-aided drafting and design (CAD). An introductory CAD course covers basic drafting techniques using specialized interior design software applications. CAD courses are typically done in a computer lab, where the student can learn 3-D drawing techniques and take their computer-drawn designs to the real world.
Design Studio
A comprehensive design studio is part of the curriculum for nearly every interior design degree program. This essential course helps students make the move from thinking and designing conceptually to applying design concepts to real-life applications. A design studio course covers advanced concepts such as 3-D scale, space and proportion, as well as textiles, furnishings, color and finishes. Students are expected to apply their knowledge to the design of a real-life residential or commercial space.
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