Business Practices for Interior Design
An exploration of the business practices necessary to develop and maintain an interior design firm. Topics include professional ethics, contract documents, vendor relations, association membership, marketing, networking and social media opportunities. Business Practices
This course explores standard business procedures commonly associated with the practice of interior design. Students will study various types of design practices, financial management and compensation, ethical practices, professional development, legal liability, and issues related to licensing and certification. The management of a typical interior design project will be studied, including writing proposals and contracts, specifications, bidding procedures, budgets, construction schedules, contractor negotiations and collaboration, and project administration.
Presentation & Portfolio
Students explore and develop a portfolio format suitable to incorporate a representative sampling of work into a finished portfolio. Design exercises in specification, representation of materials, and renderings are emphasized to enhance a professional quality presentation.
The World of Design and Decorating: An introduction to the exciting field of design and decorating.
Focal Points, Color, and Room Styles: Focal points — learn how to evaluate a space and feature its best elements. Color basics—the color wheel and basic color schemes. Room Styles—learn how to identify different styles and create a distinct look for the space you’re decorating.
Painting with Watercolors: Enhance your drawings and floorplans with a wash of color.
Working with Color: Advanced color theory — color psychology and applying color schemes.
Starting Your Own Business: Your complete guide to planning and setting up your own interior design business.
Understanding Floorplans: Learn how to draw floorplans and accurate scale drawings.
Classic Design Styles: Learn how to identify classic design periods and their furnishings.
Supplementary Booklet: A useful quick-reference guide with information on basic floorplan notation.
Space Planning: Learn about balance, visual weight, and scale.
Furniture Selection and Placement: : Harmonizing the style, function, and placement of furniture.
Designing with Textiles: Selecting and coordinating the perfect textiles for a room.
Wall Treatments: Learn about painting, papering, and specialty wall finishes.
Working with Clients: Present yourself and your work in a professional manner.
Window Treatments: Compare treatments and learn to dress windows with flair.
Accessorizing: Select and coordinate accessories for that special final touch.
20th Century Design Styles: Learn about the major design styles of the past century.
The Professional Designer: Explore consultations, proposals, invoicing, and discounts.
Designing Bedrooms: Develop ideas for the private spaces of the home.
Designing Kitchens: Blend function and style to cook up the perfect design.
Designing Bathrooms: Give style and personality to these personal retreats.
Contemporary Style Guide: Contemporary styles—chic, modern, and comfortable designs.
Final Project: Use your skills to create and present a custom-designed space.