Interior Design News
Watkins Adds Sustainability Concentration
To Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design
November 26, 2012 - Watkins College of Art, Design & Film is adding a new concentration in sustainability to its curriculum beginning in the Spring 2013 semester, The College received approval for the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, Sustainable Design Concentration from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), the national accrediting agency for art and design and art and design-related disciplines.
Complementing the College’s present Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, the Sustainable Design Concentration will provide an opportunity for students to acquire additional skill development and project exploration in work that meets human needs without compromising the environment, such as creating designs that use non-toxic or recycled materials in building materials and fabrics.
According to the US Department of Labor, employment of interior designers is expected to grow 19% from 2006 to 2016. Positions relating to sustainable design have been created that did not exist ten years ago, and sustainable interior designers or consultants will fare better than average by differentiating themselves from the rest of the generalized group.
Cheryl Gulley, professor and chair of the interior design department, said, “Sustainable guidelines are not a trend; interior design clients are increasingly more savvy and desire a less environmentally-demanding footprint. Employment opportunities are growing nationwide with a wide range of employers such as environmental organizations and architectural, engineering, construction or design firms, many of which have divisions dedicated to delivering sustainable proposals for healthcare, hospitality and educational facilities.”
Classes focusing on sustainability will include:
IND 315 Sustainable Design
Studio, 3 Credits
Students will gain an understanding of sustainable design principles as a means of promoting health and well-being through environmentally-conscious methods. Projects will vary to engage students in residential and commercial applications of sustainability using biomimicry, Cradle-to-Cradle principles, and LEED certification guidelines.
IND 316 The Ecology of Design
Lecture, 3 Credits
Instruction incorporates an overview and analysis of the latest green philosophies, systems, and building products and provides an extensive complication of current green literature and resources. Guest lecturers and field experiences are featured.
IND 322 Global Sustainability
Studio, 3 Credits
Sustainable efforts around the globe provide the student with an awareness of the diverse options available in building construction, mechanicals, energy sources, and materials. This course examines various building systems that have historically been integrated into the design and construction process. Students study both indigenous structures and current case studies that exemplify sustainable principles.
IND 323 Built Environment: Sustainable Building Systems
Studio, 3 Credits
This course promotes a healthy, energy efficient way to build, which reduces environmental impact and slows the depletion of natural resources. Students examine sustainable approaches to materials, construction, site consideration, building design, and the generation of energy. Students learn and apply new skills that are vital to the renovation and re-use of existing buildings. Students are equipped with the knowledge to design environments that make positive contributions to the community.