To advance in the fast-growing and highly competitive field of interior design, formal education and training are required. If you are thinking about a career as an interior designer, you can choose from many colleges, universities, art schools and private educational facilities that offer degrees, diplomas or certificates in design. While the programs may vary from school to school, a series of basic classes are considered essential to any interior design curriculum.
Principles of Design
Classes on the principles or fundamentals of design teach students the core design principles of balance, rhythm, scale, proportion, emphasis, unity, harmony and variety. Students learn to blend elements of design including color, texture, light and shape. They will experiment and discover the process of design as it applies to creating an interior space by exploring the use of fabrics, lighting, furniture design and placement, wall and floor coverings, and art and accessories. The principles and elements of design form the building blocks of all successful decorating projects.
Drawing Interiors
Drawing classes introduce students to one- and two-point perspective drawing as it applies to interior design. Students learn drawing skills through a variety of media and develop an awareness of how light affects objects and figures in the environment. They acquire the mechanical skills needed to visually communicate spatial concepts. Strong drawing skills enable designers to communicate effectively and sell interior design concepts. The better a designer's drawing skills, the better her client can understand her ideas.
Design Materials
Classes in basic design materials teach students the unique characteristics of various design materials, including wood, stone, metal, glass, plastic, and fabric. Students learn creative uses for these materials in residential and commercial design projects. They also discover select the appropriate materials for walls, floors, ceilings, windows and furniture. With a solid foundation in these materials, designers can select appropriate items for their function as well as aesthetic value.
Tags: interior design, drawing skills, Students learn, design materials, elements design, select appropriate