Moore College of Art and Design

From basic design and decorating principles, including space planning and lighting design to the development of residential projects, students are able to learn the major aspects of the interior decorating industry. Classes combine lecture, demonstrations and hands-on exercises, while being supplemented by field trips.

Introduction to Interior Decorating
Covering the basics of interior decorating, this overview includes an introduction to drawing, design principles, space planning, furniture selection, lighting, finishes and textiles. Learn the similarities and differences between the interior decorating and interior design fields. Drawing for Interiors
Gain basic technical interior drawing skills, including the drafting and compositional studies employed to design small residential interior projects. Drawing survey, space planning, drafting, elevation drawings, 1-and 2-point perspective and depicting finish materials are covered.

Color Theory
Color is analyzed through its three elements: hue, chroma and value. Color structures and relationships are included. Study color through theory and observation to appreciate its innate order and its illusive appearance. Experience dramatic changes in color appearance through surrounding colors, surface textures, color quantity and varying lighting sources. Become familiar with the use of color symbolically and in various cultures. Move beyond personal color preferences and color relationships to effectively direct interior color choices to specific objectives within a particular space.

History of Furniture and Decorative Arts
A survey of interiors from prehistoric to contemporary periods, the course will focus on the 20th century. Explore design concepts and the graphic analysis of important residential interiors in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas. Study furnishings, furniture and decorative arts and textiles in relation to and the prevailing aesthetic. Materials, manufacturing methods and uses of ornamentation are covered.

Interior Materials and Finishes
An introduction to the properties and application materials used in interior design: textiles and leather; carpet; stone and tile; flooring; paint and wall covering; wood; cladding and solid surfacing; glass and metal; “green” and alternative materials. Through hands-on presentations and viewing of samples, gain the technical knowledge of these materials necessary to make appropriate decisions on projects.

*Prerequisite: Introduction to Interior Decorating

The Business of Interior Decorating
Focus on practical and contractual procedures for residential interior decorators. Run a project utilizing retail options, professional presentations, budgets and the pricing of goods and services in relationship to a business plan. Other topics are business types, marketing, general accounting, taxes, legalities, purchasing specifications and contractors.

*Prerequisite: Introduction to Interior Decorating

CAD Drafting I
An intensive course designed to take the CAD novice from “square one” to a point of basic proficiency. Emphasis will be placed on practical day-to-day usage. Specific course details are taught with the needs of interior decorators in mind. Through class projects and assignments, focus on solving practical hands-on design and space planning problems.

*Prerequisite: Drawing for Interiors

Lighting Design
Mastering the use of light will enhance the impact of any interiors project. In this class, students will gain a basic understanding of “in-lighting” technology. Through addressing basic lighting problems ranging from bold public displays to intimate spaces. Commercial and residential lighting design projects that emphasize technique and documentations are included.

*Prerequisite: Color Theory, Drawing for Interiors

Interior Decorating Final
Complete a challenging residential decoration project chosen from a selection of different styles and time periods. Create a cohesive decorating plan that encompasses information and skills learned from previous interior decorating courses. With faculty support, initiate a complete decorating project from idea to final presentation and review, including a business and marketing plan and drawings. Taught by a lead instructor and two additional instructors, each of whom will instruct one class on the subject of their expertise.

*Prerequisite: Previous seven interior decorating courses

Interiors: Modernism
An in-depth examination of modern design, furniture and furnishings on interiors, beginning with the principal styles of the late 19th and early 20th century – Arts and Crafts, Art Noveau, Thonet (bentwood), De Stijl and Deco and the Medieval design that inspired them. Move along to the International Style and continue through to the end of the 20th Century studying the works of key designers such as Eames, Saarinen, Breuer, Herman Miller and knoll. Also examine the impact of acrylic material and the global impact – Tribal and Asian influences – on contemporary interiors.

Furniture Appraisal and Refinishing Techniques
Through lectures and Saturday field trips students will learn where to find antiques and vintage furniture and how to judge, date and price numerous items. Instruction in the various techniques and methods of stripping and refinishing furniture, as well as upholstery identification and reupholster techniques will be included. Travel to various auctions in the Tri-State area and benefit from having a seasoned authority accompany you.

Window Treatments
Custom window treatments are one of the most expensive purchases in an interior decorating project and potentially one of the most profitable offerings. In this class, students will learn the necessary skills for assessing client needs in order to specify, design and create unique window treatments.

Kitchen and Bath Design
Explore basic design theory and application related to kitchen and bath development. Lectures and projects focus on layouts, cabinetry, appliances, plumbing fixtures and finish material options.

*Prerequisite: Introduction to Interior Decorating, Drawing for Interiors