philosophy
Inspiring the course of study is the close relationship between interior space and the products and building systems which materially comprise it. These elements composed together form an integrated whole. Located in the College of Architecture, Planning and Design, the program’s curriculum is also influenced by the notion that the interior is an integral part of the building, landscape, and community which provide its context.
Interior Architecture includes planning interior space and shaping it in three dimensions. The design of the interior must also respond to the architecture that encloses it and to the needs of those who inhabit the space, as well as to formal and aesthetic considerations. The scope of which encompasses a range of project types from exhibition design, residential, and large commercial spaces.
Products and other objects of the “near environment” which coexist in the space give it definition and character: these include furniture, lighting elements, equipment, finishing treatments (materials and color palette), and many other accessories which support human needs and enrich our lives. The scope of project types can include small-scale toys for children, branding and packaging concepts, and ‘mobile architecture’ such as aircraft and yachts.
At the very core of our degree program is the underlying notion that students learn exponentially more information through the act of doing. Our design workshop facilities allow students the opportunity to develop their conceptual designs into a physical product by providing them access to light-duty commercial wood, metals and plastics fabrication equipment. With professor assistance, our students realize their prototypes in a real-time laboratory environment. This not only results in exceptional end-products, but more importantly allows each student to gain invaluable insight into materials and processes necessary when bringing any concept to reality. As an example of our commitment to this learning model, we have already completed a similar lab environment for the study of interior lighting and further plan to acquire a dedicated product design lab within the next year.