A holistic design approach is stressed throughout the four-year program. Students are encouraged to consider all factors that influence the design of interior spaces from human behavior, aesthetics, and building technology to the views from windows and doors that penetrate the surrounding architecture.

Chatham University's Interior Architecture program is a professional interior design curriculum that stresses holistic design integrated with sustainability and environmental consciousness. Design studios encourage you to explore the built environment of various building types while lecture courses impart the design knowledge needed to create wonderful spaces.

Interior Architecture (BIA) Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

????????? effectively locate and gather information associated with both practice and research through a variety of information media

????????? evaluate the quality and accuracy of information they locate

????????? extract information from sources associated with practice and research

????????? evaluate the quality and accuracy of written information

????????? critically evaluate the executed works of designers

????????? make informed design decisions based on aesthetics, building technologies, human needs and the health, safety and the welfare of the public

????????? exhibit a variety of design ideas, approaches and concepts with originality

????????? transform conceptual design ideas into a detailed solution that takes into account existing building constraints, user needs, cost, building codes and standards, and a program of spaces

????????? engage in problem solving with respect to design projects of varying type, size and scope

????????? communicate clearly in writing, in short papers for supporting coursework, concept statements and building programs in the design studios, specifications and schedules for construction documents and contracts and business-related documents

????????? formulate a point of view and have the ability to articulate and defend it in written form

????????? express ideas clearly in oral presentations and critiques with classmates, other instructors and professionals from the design community

????????? formulate a point of view and have the ability to articulate and defend it orally

????????? demonstrate? a sustainable approach to interior design

????????? think critically and see inquiry as the norm

????????? identify, research, and solve design challenges with a logical methodology

????????? demonstrate creative solutions and applied spontaneity

????????? understand how to conduct and apply research findings

????????? demonstrate strong professional communication skills and be able to present their design ideas and solutions with confidence

????????? Students will be globally-conscious interior designers