Color Theory for Interiors introduces the student to principles, theories and systems for the application of color in the built environment. This course is concerned with understanding the interaction of color with materials, texture, light, and form. It includes an exploration of the physical and perceptual nature of color and the physiological, psychological and emotional impact of color. Color will be considered as an essential element of the design process, and as an effective communication tool in design ideation and presentations. Two and three dimensional exercises and projects will demonstrate the various aspects of color theory and application.

In this introductory course students develop an understanding of basic construction materials and assemblies, including foundations, walls, roofs, doors and windows, water protection, and finishes. Selecting and detailing interior finish materials, including flooring, wallcoverings, ceilings and textiles will be explored. The objective is to enable a student to design more effectively through the understanding of material technology and the process of construction of interior space.

Interiors Lighting presents the principles and methods of designing for natural and artificial lighting as an integral component of the built environment. In its interaction with color, materials, textures, space and form, light plays an essential role in shaping experience. Topics covered include: perception, the design process, light sources, fixture selection, color, documentation, codes, calculations, controls, and day lighting.

Interiors Studio 1 is the first project-based studio designing environments for the experience of the inhabitants of interior space. Course participants will frame a series of interiors problems in the process language of definition, goals, objectives and performance criteria, enabling the application of creative methods for problem solving. Examples of problem-framing and process tools from practice will be introduced. The elements and principles of design will be explored in terms of the materials, volumes and systems specific to interior space.

*INT1001 Interiors Studio is open to students in the Principles of Interior Design Certificate. Interested students should email ce@the-bac.edu.

This seminar course uses readings and projects to explore the emergence of interior design as a distinct form of professional practice. Starting from the gradual separation of interior and furniture design from architectural practice in the mid-nineteenth century, students will research the evolution of the discipline in relation to social and technological concerns such as sustainability, globalization, and the profession’s emphasis on human factors. Theories and projects that have defined the scope and methods of interior design, particularly since the early 20th century, will be examined in context.