Course Descriptions

ARCH 121

People and Their Environment

Overview

This introduction to design presents an overview of the relationship between people and their environment, both natural and man-made.   The emphasis is on seeing and comprehending the world around us, identifying and discussing the forces of change at work in the environment and clarifying the role of the environmental designer.  

 Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop an understanding for the effects of culture in architecture and interior design
• develop an understanding of the evolution of building prototypes
• study the behavior patterns and the sociological aspects of design
• learn about the effects of technology on the built environment
• look at the relationship between human behavior and the built environment and determine the effect it has on them and that they have on it
• develop an understanding of what a designer's main intent is
• develop programming skills including problem identification and solving and gathering research and analysis as it relates to human behavior
  in the built environment

ARCH 131

Introduction to Design I 

Overview

This course is an introduction to basic principles and elements of design with emphasis on design methodology, abstract design theories and concepts and communication skills.   The course draws upon many areas of design, particularly architectural, interior design and industrial design, and constructs a systematic introduction to these fields.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop an understanding for theories of design and design composition
• explore the elements and principles of design through various problems and assignments
• develop skills in illustrative sketching and graphic composition
• understand the elements of space creation and spatial relationships
• construct 2-dimensional drawings and 3-dimensional models to convey their solution to the assigned problem.   In doing so they apply 3-dimensional design elements and principles to the development of the spatial envelope
• develop programming skills through identifying and solving the design problem
• technically render plans, elevations and sections
• develop skills in model making using foam core and wood
• present and support their design solutions showing how they meet the objectives of the project program.   Students are introduced to oral presentation methods and skills  

ARCH 151        

Architectural Construction I

Overview

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the construction process and its relationship to architecture and interior design.   The study of materials and methods of construction is concerned primarily with wood, heavy timber and masonry construction and is presented through lectures, exercises, case studies and job site visits.   Emphasis is on process, compatibility of materials, and drawings as a communication tool in architecture and interior design.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop an understanding for various methods of construction and the impact construction systems and methods have on their design solutions
• develop an understanding for foundation systems: slab, pier, crawl space, and basement
• develop an understanding for floor and wall framing systems: post and beam, balloon, and platform and basic structural theory
• develop an understanding of the thermal and moisture protection qualities of roofing materials and exterior walls
• learn types, detailing and building code requirements for stairs, windows and doors
• demonstrate the appropriate application of codes, regulations and standards
• visit local building and construction sites during various stages of the building process to further their understanding and to witness first-hand the diverse methods of construction
• design layouts for kitchens and bathrooms
• construct a typical wall section model showing a particular framing system
• communicate their understanding of the framing system through the development of their model
• construct scaled mock-ups of various construction related details using actual building materials

ARCH 152

Architectural Construction II

Overview

This course is a continuation of ARCH 151 Architectural Construction I that relates construction to architectural design.   This will include an investigation of factors such as building codes, structure and mechanical system issues.   The course will study materials and methods of masonry, concrete and steel construction.   Commercial building planning and basic environmental systems will also be explored.   Emphasis will be placed on criteria for selection of materials and systems, materials research, standards and test methods and forces of deterioration.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop an understanding for various methods of construction and the impact construction systems and methods have on their design solutions
• develop an understanding for foundation and steel framing systems
• develop an understanding for floor and wall framing systems
• develop an understanding of the thermal and moisture protection qualities of roofing materials and exterior walls
• learn types, detailing and building code requirements for stairs, windows and doors
• demonstrate the appropriate application of codes, regulations and standards
• design layouts for egress stairs and barrier-free bathrooms
• construct a typical wall section model showing a particular framing system
• visit local building and construction sites during various stages of the building process to further their understanding and to witness first-hand the diverse methods of construction

ARTS 122

Color Theory

Overview

Color Theory is a course designed to allow the student to build a conceptual and experiential understanding of color. Students are introduced to basic color relationships and the interaction of color. Students will develop an understanding of color phenomena relating to the two-dimensional plane and its application to the visual arts. Through a series of lectures, demonstrations, projects, discussions and critiques the student will learn to utilize color effectively in their own work. In a studio setting, color problems are explored through paint, collage, and paper.

Learning Objectives

The students will:

• understand the principles of color theory, basic color qualities, color relationships/schemes and the interactions of color
• develop and understanding for the effects of lighting and the human response to color
• experience color-mixing and develop an understanding for hue, value, and intensity
• understand the relationship of light and color
• apply color concepts that result in the ability to control and manipulate color so that it strengthens and reinforces visual communication
• understand and appreciate works of literacy, visual, or performing arts

ARTH 201

History of Western Architecture

Overview

This course is a broad-based survey of Western architecture from prehistory through the twentieth century, with emphasis on the development of style, technology and the relationship of society to the built environment.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop a visual vocabulary for critical analysis and a linguistic vocabulary for describing what they see
• recognize the historical and political development of civilization
• understand the influence and impact of historical and political events, ideas, and cultures on architecture
• develop an understanding of the relationship between human behavior and the built environment
• develop an understanding of   the role of the arts in civilization
• develop an understanding of the individual's response to the arts
• demonstrate their ability to communicate clearly in writing through reaction papers of work viewed on field trips
• demonstrate their critical and analytical thinking abilities through comparative essays on exams
• utilize alternative means of presentation techniques to communicate class projects  

INTD 150       

Design Elements for Interior Environments

Overview

The purpose of this course is to provide students with the working knowledge of design fundamentals and the elements (space, shape, form, line, texture, value and color) and principles (unity, balance, proportion, scale, rhythm, repetition, variety and emphasis) of design as it relates to the interior environment.  Through lecture and studio assignments 2-dimensional relationships will be explored through a variety of media.   Emphasis will be on students developing an understanding of the design process and demonstrating their ability to design and create compositions based on these principles.   A primary goal of this course is to help the student develop sketching skills, which are useful to the designer as a tool in design development, as well as a means of effectively communicating ideas to others. Specifically, the student will learn quick-sketching techniques for drawing interior spaces.  These sketches provide the designer with a means of rapid visualization of the intended design concept.  This allows for critical analysis and improvement of the design before more technical drawings are completed. They also serve as a basis for all future working and presentation drawings.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• understand and apply the elements and principles of design to interior environments
• develop drawing and illustration skills using a variety of  black and white media
• demonstrate the ability to develop ideas quickly and thoroughly
• develop an understanding for basic color psychology, client analysis, design vocabulary, selection of finishes, and sample board presentation techniques
• communicate effectively through oral, written and visual presentations

INTD 151

Introduction to Interior Design

Overview

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the diversified field of Interior Design.   Through class lecture and discussion, the student will gain an overall understanding of the scope of the design profession and a basic understanding of the role of the designer.   The student will be introduced to the mechanical and aesthetic tools of the designer, and will be involved in hands-on projects that will begin to develop the student's ability to use these tools.  

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop an awareness of professional design organizations, certification, & licensing
• develop an understanding for theories of design and design composition
• develop an understanding for design elements and principles, design vocabulary, and the design process.
• apply the principles of color theory, color interaction, effects of lighting and the human response to color to their design solutions
• apply ADA standards and universal design principles to their design solutions
• develop their active listening skills through client interviews leading to the identification of client needs and apply their findings to their design solutions
• develop programming skills and research specific requirements for their design  
• utilize their schematic design skills by developing bubble diagrams, adjacencies, and circulation paths for their projects
• select and apply materials and products based on their properties and performance criteria
• practice skills in both illustrative sketching and more formal methods of graphic presentation including floor plans, elevations, and presentation boards
• communicate effectively orally through participation in group critiques, in writing through concept statements and graphically through the use of appropriate communication media to present their design solutions

INTD 152

Drafting and Graphic Presentation for Interior Design I

Overview

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the basic tools of drafting and utilize them in the creation of a comprehensive set of interior drawings and plans necessary for the installation and completion of an Interior Design project.  The student will demonstrate their understanding of this information through the development of such a set of drawings.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop drafting skills that enable them to express ideas and thoughts via the drafted line
• learn basic interior drafting vocabulary, line quality, and hand lettering  
• understand that drafting is another language that is used to express three-dimensional ideas on paper
• use their interior plans to further explore other mechanical drafting techniques such as elevations, section, axonometric and reflected ceiling plan drawings
• visually express their knowledge of three dimensional design elements and principles in their axonometric drawing
• develop an understanding for wood-framing systems.   Students draft and identify the structural members of a building in their section drawing
• develop an understanding for lighting fundamentals and draft reflected ceiling plans including lighting symbols and legends
• develop preliminary specification of interior finishes and create finish schedules
• communicate information and ideas clearly and effectively in spoken form through verbal presentations and critiques

INTD 153

Drafting and Graphic Presentation for Interior Design II

Overview

The purpose of this class is to introduce the student to advanced drawing and presentation techniques utilized by the professional designer.   This mixed media course will emphasize both freehand drawing and drafting skills, rendering techniques and variations on the creation of presentation boards.   Students have a series of exercises to complete (and compile for their portfolio) in order to develop competency with their materials.   Students apply their skills to their semester project.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop illustrative sketching skills, which are useful to the designer as a tool in design development, as well as a means of effectively communicating ideas to others
• learn quick-sketching techniques for drawing plans, elevations, axonometrics and perspectives
• visually express their knowledge of three dimensional design elements and principles in their perspective drawings
• utilize the principles of color theory to create color schemes for their renderings
• develop rendering skills including marker, colored pencil, and pastel
• use critical thinking and problem solving skills in analyzing information
• identify overall spatial requirements and organize them in functional space plans that reflect appropriate circulation paths, egress routes and ADA compliance
• apply two-dimensional design skills in the creation of presentation boards

INTD 155

Illustrative Sketching for Interior Environments

Overview

The purpose of this course is to help the student develop sketching skills, which are useful to the designer as a tool in design development, as well as a means of effectively communicating ideas to others. Specifically, the student will learn quick-sketching techniques for drawing interior spaces. These sketches provide the designer with a means of rapid visualization of the intended design concept. This allows for critical analysis and improvement of the design before more technical drawings are completed. They also serve as a basis for all future working and presentation drawings.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop skills that involve quick sketching techiniques and the basic principles of free hand perspective drawing
• develop and achieve three dimensional rendering skills of objects and interior views using one and two point perspective grid methods
• learn design vocabulary to communicate their thoughts and images in both presentations and critiques
• plan and design furniture, textiles, and interior spaces using quick sketching techniques
• be required to do on-site sketching and will have to establish criteria for what is needed it terms of presenting their view in two-dimensional form

INTD 161

History of Furniture and Interiors I

Overview

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the historical development of furniture and interiors.   Through a series of slide presentations, videos, lectures, field trips and projects, the student will explore stylistic developments, function, and ornamentation of furniture forms from ancient Egypt through the Renaissance.   As a result of this exploration, students will be able to identify major furniture styles and place them within their historical and cultural context.  

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• identify major furniture styles and place them within their historical context
• develop an understanding of how social, economic and political conditions impact on the design of buildings, furniture and interiors
• develop a reference notebook incorporating major highlights of each period.   Notebook includes summaries of readings, class notes, drawings and renderings of furniture from each period and other supplemental information
• develop an awareness of cultural diversity through exploration of non-western approaches towards creation of buildings and interiors
• demonstrate their ability to express ideas clearly and communicate effectively in written or oral form
• demonstrate the ability to communicate using technology as an alternative means of presentation
• participate in collaborative team experiences in developing the semester project to presented orally to the class

INTD 162

History of Furniture and Interiors II

Overview

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the historical development of furniture and interiors.   Through a series of slide presentations, videos, lectures, field trips and projects, the student will explore stylistic developments, function, and ornamentation of furniture forms from the Renaissance through the twentieth century. As a result of this exploration, the student will be able to identify major furniture styles and place them within their historical and cultural context.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• identify major furniture styles and place them within their historical context
• further develop an understanding of how social, economic and political conditions impact on the design of buildings, furniture and interiors
• develop a reference notebook incorporating major highlights of each period.   Notebook includes summaries of readings, class notes, and drawings of furniture from each period and other supplemental information
• research a particular style or designer and create a rendered flip-up model of a room in that style
• demonstrate their ability to express ideas clearly and communicate effectively in written or oral form
• demonstrate the ability to communicate using technology as an alternative means of presentation

INTD 225

3-D Architectural CAD

Overview

The student will be presented with a comprehensive course in 3-D Architecture. They will acquire the skills necessary to create photorealistic images, animations and construction documents. The assignments will focus on typical interior design and architectual applications. Students will create buildings in 3-D using a dedicated 3-D architectual package. Integrated and object-oriented 3-D CAD is becoming the mainstream design and documentation tool for architectual practices. Traditional drafting-based systems are being phased out in favor of 3-D model-based solutions.

INTD 245

Codes and Standards for Interiors                                      

Overview

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the various codes and standards that must be observed in the process of planning interior environments. The student will develop an understanding of how to apply building codes and standards in interiors.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• be able to identify code and standards issues, research requirements and apply solutions to interior space
• become aware of the purpose of building codes, process of code adoption, code agencies, and relevant terminology

INTD 251

Computer Aided Drawing for Interior Design I

Overview

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the use of computer applications for Interior Design.   The student will learn AutoCAD software to create and plot interior drawings suitable for presentation. Students will learn the use of drawing and editing commands, use of layers and viewports, line types, text and dimensioning modes. Students will employ skills developed in INTD 152 Drafting and Graphic Presentation for Interior Design I.  

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• communicate effectively  using computer-aided drafting and lettering techniques
• develop an   understanding for CAD hardware and software terminology
• develop and manage electronic drawing files
• demonstrate design development skills through detailed layouts of furniture, fixtures and equipment
• develop an understanding of how CAD is presently used in the design industry

INTD 252

CAD for Interior Design II

Overview

The purpose of this course is to expand on the CAD skills developed in INTD 251.  Aspects of three dimensional drawing and computer rendering will be explored using AutoCAD 2000 and 3-D Studio Viz software.  The focus of semester projects will be on building interior architecture, furnishings, and finishes.

INTD 253

Interior Design Studio I

Overview

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to commercial interior design.   The student will expand the aesthetic and technical skills developed in prerequisite courses.   Through hands on projects the student will explore concerns related to the allocation of interior space.   The student will gain an understanding of: development of the design program and identification of client/user needs, space planning and wayfinding, adjacencies, ergonomics and proxemics, ADA standards, codes, and commercially rated furnishings and surfacing materials.   The student will contact manufacturer showrooms for sample materials and product information.   The student will use the internet for research.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

• demonstrate programming skills including problem identification, problem solving, identification of client and user needs and information gathering research and analysis.
• understand the impact mechanical and electrical systems have on designs
• develop an awareness of power distribution, data/voice telecommunication, lighting, ceiling, and flooring systems
• demonstrate schematic design skills through bubble diagramming and adjacencies, quick illustrative sketching and selection of interior finishes
• demonstrate design development skills through plans, elevations, 3-dimensional drawings, schedules and written specifications
• develop project management skills through written specifications and product costs
• apply universal design and ADA standards to design solutions
• demonstrate the appropriate application of fire and life safety principles
• select and apply materials and products based on their properties and performance criteria
• incorporate wayfinding methods and graphic identification to their design projects
• communicate effectively both orally, graphically and in writing       

INTD 254

Interior Design Studio II

Overview

The purpose of this course is to enhance the student's ability to define and analyze problems related to the utilization of interior spaces.   Through hands on projects the student will expand their understanding of human behavior in the built environment.   Through the development of the semester project the student will demonstrate programming skills through problem identification, problem solving, identification of client/user needs, information gathering research and analysis.   The solution to semester projects must demonstrate an understanding of the: development of the program, space planning, wayfinding, ergonomics, proxemics, ADA and universal design code compliance, and commercial grade furnishings and surfacing materials.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• demonstrate programming skills including problem identification, problem solving, identification of client and user needs and information gathering research and analysis.
• understand the impact mechanical and electrical systems have on designs
• apply universal design and ADA standards to design solutions

• demonstrate the appropriate application of fire and life safety principles
• demonstrate design development skills through plans, elevations, 3-dimensional drawings

• utilize systems furniture in an office environment

• select and apply materials and products based on their properties and performance criteria
• incorporate wayfinding methods and graphic identification to their design projects
• communicate effectively both orally, graphically and in writing
• develop project management skills through written specifications and cost analysis

INTD 256

Lighting and Building Systems

Overview

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to both the technical and aesthetic aspects of lighting, and its use as a visual design element in interior spaces.   The student will develop an understanding of light measurement and control.   Lighting problems will be explored and solved through application of formulas, lighting calculations, the appropriate selection and application of luminaries.   The student will become familiar with lighting and electrical symbols and utilize them in the creation of reflected ceiling plans. The student will become aware of various building systems including HVAC plumbing and sprinklers. Students are required to develop comprehensive design solutions to a variety of lighting problems involving residential, retail, restaurant, and commercial spaces.   Emphasis is placed on communicating a design solution by accomplishing projects that are application oriented.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• develop an understanding of lighting fundamentals, fixture types and appropriate specification and application based on their properties and performance criteria
• further develop their understanding of the relationship of light and color
• demonstrate competence in drafting, lettering, rendering and presentation skills
• demonstrate programming skills including problem identification, problem solving, identification of user needs and information gathering research and analysis.
• demonstrate schematic design skills through quick illustrative sketching
• further enhance their design development skills through furniture plans, detailed lighting selections and specifications, reflected ceiling plans and selection of finishes
• demonstrate the appropriate application of fire and life safety principles through placement of exit signage and emergency lighting
• develop an understanding of various building systems including HVAC, plumbing and sprinkler systems and the impact they have on their design solutions
• develop an awareness of energy management systems and security systems.   This includes the use of properly designed switching via automatic devices such as occupancy sensors, timers and remote switching equipment

INTD 257

Textiles and Materials for Interior Design

Overview

This course is a study of the characteristics, functional applications, and care of textiles.   The purpose of this course is to introduce and familiarize the students with the textile industry as it relates specifically to Interior Design.   The student will develop an understanding of the creation of textiles from fibers through finishing.    Students will learn the “language” of textiles as used by the design industry, and will understand the transformation raw fibers undergo before reaching the end user.   Students will become aware of various types of interior surfacing materials, their impact on indoor air quality, sustainable design, and flammability testing and standards.   Through guest speakers and field trips students will become aware of manufacturers and sources.   Students will utilize rendering techniques to illustrate textiles appropriate to specific design periods.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• identify fiber sources and various methods of yarn and fabric construction
• develop an understanding of dyeing, printing and finishing processes
• develop an understanding for the responsibility of a design professional to select products that comply with all applicable codes and standards
• develop an understanding for measuring, installing and maintaining textiles, carpet & wallpaper
• develop a reference notebook compiled of class notes, textile vocabulary, examples of surfacing materials properly identified with fiber content, method of construction and most appropriate application in the design field
• develop their knowledge of appropriate application of period textiles
• demonstrate an understanding of design elements through coordinated textile schemes
• understand the impact indoor air quality and sustainable design has on their projects
• communicate effectively through oral presentations and written assignments.

INTD 258

Trade Information and Business Practices

Overview

The purpose of this capstone course is to familiarize the student with interior design business practices, to expose the student to diverse employment opportunities, and to reinforce their preparedness for entry into the work force.   Students will become aware of various types of business formations, documents utilized during the course of a design project, fee structures, and basic project management practices.   Strategies for conflict resolution will be discussed.   Students will refine and photograph their portfolios, develop their resumes, and create their business cards, logo, stationary, and marketing brochure.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• organize, refine and photograph their work to develop a finished portfolio
• develop their written communication skills through letter of agreements, resume writing and creating marketing tools.   Students are required to use computer applications
• develop an awareness of project management including time management, estimating, contract administration, budget management and post-occupancy evaluations
• realize the importance and understand the process of strategic planning to create a specific written vision for the design firm and its future
• develop an understanding for the 4 P's of Marketing: product, place, promotion and price and the importance of a marketing analysis in developing a marketing plan
• expand their knowledge of sources for materials and products and create a Rolodex of 100 sources obtained from guest speakers, field trips and their own research
• engage in role-playing situations to analyze various strategies for conflict resolution based on moral and ethical principles, the objective being to develop one's own ethical business standards
• develop an understanding of legislative issues and the requirements for legal registration

INTD 299

Internship

Overview

With the aid of Full-time Faculty and the College's Placement Services Office, the student participates in a practical “on-site” internship in which theoretical principles are applied to work situations under professional supervision.

Learning Objectives

The student will:

• experience on-the-job training concerning real-life design problems
• experience a more direct relationship with manufacturers and sales representatives in the field
• have the opportunity to observe professionals in the workplace and the operation of a professional design studio.