WILLIAM RAINEY HARPER COLLEGE
CAREER AND TECHNICAL PROGRAMS DIVISION
GENERAL COURSE OUTLINE
IND
Course
Prefix
285
Course
Number
Contract Studio II
Course Title
(2-2)
Lec-Lab
3
Semester
Hours
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Explores spatial problems and design interventions in commercial and contract spaces. Researches
various systems and how design solutions affect and are impacted by them. Includes construction
systems and methods; power distribution systems; mechanical systems, energy management; data/voice
telecommunications systems; lighting systems, ceiling systems; flooring systems; security systems;
acoustics; and interface of workstation furniture. Applies building codes, fire and life safety principles
and other regulations and standards to projects. Intended for advanced-level students with work
experience who are preparing for the NCIDQ licensing exam.
Prerequisite: IND 209
TOPICAL OUTLINE:
I.
Identification of clients needs
II.
Development of bubble diagrams and adjacency matrixes
III. Material and finish selection as related to building codes
IV. Telephone and electrical plans
V.
Reflected ceiling plans
VI. Furniture systems
VII. Alternative work places and styles based on technological advances
VIII. Relationship between human behavior and their work environment
IX. Environmental stress, crowding and privacy issues in public spaces
X. Effects of the built environment on mood, style, health and work efficiency
XI. Spatial problems and design interventions in commercial and contract interiors
XII. Wayfinding and signage
METHODS OF PRESENTATION:
1. Lecture
2. Demonstration
3. Readings
4. Critiques
5. Field trips
STUDENT OUTCOMES (The student should…)
1. development of observational and analysis abilities and critical thinking skills leading to effective
interpretation of clients needs.
2. understanding of alternative points of view in designing commercial and contract interiors.
3. to become more familiar with planning and layout principles for open plan office systems.
4. application of design principles and elements to an advanced contract interior design.
5. use of findings from pre-design research in the development of individual solutions to complex
program requirements.
6. demonstrate programming skills including problem identification, problem-solving; identification of
client and/or user needs; information gathering research and analysis; project evaluation.
7. analyze space planning and systems planning through bubble diagrams, adjacencies, traffic patterns
and functional relationships.
IND 285 CONTRACT STUDIO II CONTINUED
8. complete a contract design project including:
• bubble diagrams and adjacency matrixes
• floor plan
• elevations and perspectives
• cabinet drawing of semi-custom and/or custom cabinetry
• lighting plan
• electrical plan
• systems furniture installation plan
• selection and specification of contract furnishings and finishes.
9. demonstrate understanding that design solutions affect and are impacted by: construction systems
and methods; power distribution systems; mechanical systems; energy management; data/voice
telecommunications systems; lighting systems, ceiling systems flooring systems; security systems;
acoustics; and interface of workstation furniture.
10. demonstrate that materials and products are appropriately selected and applied on the basis of their
properties and performance criteria.
11. apply knowledge of design for life safety and accessibility to design for specialized commercial or
contract interiors and mixed use interiors.
12. demonstrate the appropriate application of codes, regulations and standards; barrier-free design
concepts and ergonomic and human factors data.
13. demonstrate ability to research design issues relative to working environments.
14. write a purchase order and/or specification for furnishings.
15. knowledge of contracts for commercial construction projects and bid documents.
16. utilize performance testing criteria and rating standards within a project.
17. understand wire and cabling for systems furniture.
18. apply ergonomic standards to design projects.
19. understanding warranties and guarantees.
20. work within a client’s budget.
21. balance a space and presentation board or drawing, visually through the proper use of scale and
mass of furniture, color, pattern, placement, accessories, window treatments, and placement of
written information.
22. utilize hand-drafting or computer drafting and lettering skills to produce professional quality
documents.
23. understand how to use the uniform commercial code.
24. create harmonious designs within the parameters of the space and client program requirements.
25. give verbal presentation(s) of the design project(s), which identify how the project(s) meet(s) the
client’s needs.
METHODS OF EVALUATION:
1. Peer evaluations
2. Faculty critiques
3. Visual and verbal presentation
4. Classroom discussion and critiques
TEXTBOOKS/INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS
Stewart-Pollack, Julie and Rosemary Menconi, Designing for Privacy and Related Needs, Fairchild
Publications, 2005
Piotrowski, Christine, Designing for Commercial Interiors, Wiley & Sons, Current
PREPARED BY:
Jacque Mott
Fall 2007