Furnishings and Interiors

Furnishings and Interiors (FI) major is a rigorous program of study designed for students interested in understanding and enhancing interior environments, in particular residential interior environments. The program prepares students to successfully complete design projects ranging from minor renovations to new construction with a focus on residential interiors and related design areas.

Through an interdisciplinary, hands on approach students are challenged to create innovative design solutions for enhancing function and aesthetics, while simultaneously promoting health, safety, wellbeing and quality of life within built environments. Students develop design skills, creativity and knowledge in the following areas:

* Design fundamentals

* Residential oriented design studios

* Special topic studios on interior environments

* History of Architecture and Design

* Kitchen and bath design

* Interior materials, fixtures and finishes

* Textile - end use and performance

* Sustainability and LEED

* Lighting design

* Professional practice

* Specifications and estimation of materials and furnishing

* Oral, written and graphic communication

* Rendering and presentation methods

* Computer aided drawing/ 3-D computer modeling and rendering

* Building codes and ADA compliance

Internships: Gain an understanding of the latest trends and designs, while experiencing the daily office activities of a design firm. Intern with manufacturers, showrooms and design firms locally, across the U.S. and abroad. Internships often lead to professional careers within companies that students have interned with.

A study abroad program to London, England offers summer internship opportunities

Experiential Learning: Acquire skills and knowledge outside of the classroom with experiential learning. Service-learning, field trips, and many class projects will engage you with the community and industry professionals, adding to your educational experience.

Undergraduate Research: Become part of the design research of built environments and their end users. Perform research where you will be mentored by professors who are experts in their field.

Study Abroad Options: We offer education abroad and domestic study tours to New York, London and Peru.