College: Engineering

This major provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of interior architecture, focusing on the design and transformation of interior spaces. Students explore key areas such as space planning, material selection, lighting design, and sustainable design. The program emphasizes creativity, technical skills, and the application of architectural principles to create functional and aesthetic interior designs. Graduates are prepared for careers in interior design, architectural firms, and space planning consultancy.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the basics of interior architecture and its role in shaping built environments.
• Develop skills in space planning, material selection, and lighting design.
• Learn techniques for creating functional and aesthetic interior spaces.
• Explore the role of sustainability and ergonomics in interior design.
• Understand building code principles and accessibility standards.
• Analyze challenges and opportunities in the field of interior architecture.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills for design projects.

Main Curriculum:

1. Introduction to Interior Architecture: Overview of the field, its history, and its importance in architectural design.
2. Space Planning and Design:
   • Study of spatial organization, distribution, and functional layouts.
   • Techniques for optimizing space usage and user experience.
3. Material Selection and Application:
   • Basics of material properties, texture, and finishes.
   • Techniques for selecting and applying materials in interior design.
4. Lighting Design:
   • Principles of natural and artificial lighting in interior spaces.
   • Techniques for creating lighting plans that enhance ambiance and functionality.
5. Sustainable Design Practices:
   • Exploring eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency, and sustainable design principles.
   • Techniques for integrating sustainability into interior architecture projects.
6. Building Codes and Accessibility:
   • Study of building regulations, codes, and accessibility standards.
   • Techniques for ensuring compliance with legal and safety requirements.
7. Interior Details and Construction:
   • Basics of detailing, construction techniques, and project documentation.
   • Techniques for translating design concepts into buildable solutions.
8. Emerging Trends in Interior Architecture:
   • Analysis of innovations like smart homes, biophilic design, and modular interiors.
   • Techniques for adapting to new trends and technologies in the field.
9. Capstone Project in Interior Architecture:
   • Real-world project to apply acquired skills in designing and transforming interior spaces.
   • Techniques for delivering a comprehensive interior architecture solution.

Assessment Methods:

• Design projects and portfolio development.
• Written assignments on space planning, material selection, and lighting design.
• Group projects in sustainable design and interior details.
• Participation in internships or fieldwork with architectural companies or design studios.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "Interior Design Illustrated" by Francis D.K. Ching and Corky Binggeli.
• "The Architecture of Light" by Sage Russell.
• "Sustainable Design: A Critical Guide" by David Bergman.
• "Building Codes Illustrated: A Guide to Understanding the International Building Code" by Francis D.K. Ching and Steven R. Winkel.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge of design, architecture, or art is recommended. Suitable for students in architecture, interior design, and related fields.

Duration of the Major:

Typically 4 years, including coursework, design projects, and internships.

Degree:

Graduates may earn a degree in interior architecture or a related field.

Target Audience:

Aspiring interior decorators, interior designers, and space planning consultants aiming to excel in designing and transforming interior spaces.

This major equips students with creative, technical, and problem-solving skills essential for excellence in interior architecture, driving innovation in crafting functional and beautiful interior designs.