WILLIAM RAINEY HARPER COLLEGE
CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS
GENERAL COURSE OUTLINE
IND
Course
Prefix
100
Course
Number
Theory and Fundamentals of Design
Course Title
(1-2)
Lec-Lab
2
Semester
Hours
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Introduces students to theoretical principles and nomenclature of design. Studies theories pertaining to
elements and principles of design, color theory, psychology and color phenomenology as it relates to
interior design. Studies human environment, proxemics and spatial behaviors. Examines universal design,
designing for specific cultures and genders as well as other topical subjects. Covers the interior design
profession, professional organizations and career employment.
Recommended corequisite: IND 101
TOPICAL OUTLINE:
I.
Theory of design principals and elements
II.
Human environment
III. Scale
IV. Clearances
V.
Proxemics
VI. Territorality
VII. Anthropometrics
VIII. Color psychology
IX. Barrier free design factors
X. Design concept statements
XI. Careers in Interior Design
XII. Guest speakers
XIII. Color theories and their applications-*
METHOD OF PRESENTATION:
1. Lecture
2. Demonstration
3. Readings
4. Guest speakers
STUDENT OUTCOMES (The student should….)
1. know basic theories and legislative issues that affect the field of interior design.
2. understand the design process.
3. discuss human behaviors, functional requirements, & environmental issues which affect the field of
interior design.
4. understand proxemics and anthropometrics.
5. know the concepts of Edward T. Hall and their importance to design theory.
6. examine the various job options available in the field of interior design.
7. know the requirements for licensing or registration of interior designers.
8. identify standard furniture sizes as they relate to the human dimension.
9. define & identify the principles & elements of design as they relate to an interior.
10. make a presentation to the class.
11. identify the professional design organizations.
12. define structural vs. decorative design.
13. identify and use undertones in fabrics and finishes.
14. compare and contrast color pigments with color in light
IND100 THEORY AND FUNDAMENTALS OF DESIGN CONTINUED
15. develop an understanding of interior design resources, i.e. periodicals, books, library facilities,
Internet research.
16. develop a vocabulary of interior design terms and utilize these in discussions and presentations.
17. understand the design types of geometric, abstract, stylized and realistic.
18. identify and utilize color schemes
19. identify physical and psychological issues related to color.
20. develop an understanding of color interactions including the differences between hue, value and
saturation.
21. utilize the application of color on surface planes to achieve desired effects.
22. produce color palettes to meet the needs of clients.
METHODS OF EVALUATION:
1. Successful completion of assigned projects
2. Participation in class discussions and activities
3. Testing of technical information.
TEXTBOOKS/INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS
Nielson, Karla and Taylor, David, Interiors: An Introduction, 4th edition, New York, McGraw-Hill, 2005
REVIEWED BY: Jacque Mott
Spring 2007