INTERIOR DECORATING
Program Outline
Major: INDC
Length: 2 Years
Delivery: 4 Semesters
Credential: Ontario College Diploma
Effective: 2011-2012
Location: Barrie
Start: Fall
Description
Interior decorating is the art of creating distinctive and integrated interior environments that respond to functional needs and address aesthetic perceptions. The process involves the planning of space, beautification and furnishing of interiors and the documentation of design concepts resulting in a composition that conveys a sense of place.
Courses are delivered in a variety of formats including lecture, studio and lab. In addition, a variety of field trips as well as a field placement component connects students with the industry prior to graduation.
This two-year program is recognized by the Canadian Decorators Association (CDECA). Graduates will have the knowledge and essential skills to interpret client requirements, create innovative interiors and pursue employment in the decorating field.
Career Opportunities
Graduates may find employment with large decorating firms offering a full range of consultancy services, building contractors, real estate agents, retailers, and specialty decorating centres. Students with entrepreneurial skill may become freelance interior decorators. Possible positions include: interior decorating consultant; kitchen and bathroom designer; colour consultant; model home/condo finishes specifier; real estate staging consultant; lighting, flooring, furniture, window treatment and paint consultant/specialist/salesperson; showroom merchandiser and mobile in-home interior decorator service provider.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- analyze the client's needs and goals using research techniques and taking psychological, sociological and physiological needs into consideration;
- collaborate in the preparation of a design proposal/contract to define the scope of services for the decorating project;
- analyze existing space conditions and decorating components in order to determine what modifications are required to meet the client's needs;
- prepare a design concept which meets all the criteria (i.e.: historical context, accessibility) of a given decorating project using the creative process;
- communicate the design concept to the client in verbal and written formats;
- use a variety of media and rendering techniques to communicate the character of the space;
- prepare technical documents (i.e. plans, elevations) needed for the implementation of the decorating solution;
- collaborate with a variety of design and decoration professionals for the implementation of the decoration solution;
- evaluate the effectiveness of the final decoration solution;
- develop strategies and plans to implement and maintain a decorating business.
Program Progression
Fall Intake
Sem 1 - Fall 2011
Sem 2 - Winter 2012
Sem 3 - Fall 2012
Sem 4 - Winter 2013
Winter Intake
Sem 1 - Winter 2012
Sem 2 - Summer 2012
Sem 3 - Fall 2012
Sem 4 - Winter 2013
Admission Requirements
Applicants following the OSS curriculum must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD - 30 credits) or equivalent. Applicants following the OSS curriculum also require Grade 12 English (C) or (U) (ENG4C, ENG4U).
Applicants who are 19 years of age or over by the first day of classes, and who lack the academic entrance qualifications, may be considered for entrance to an appropriate post-secondary diploma or certificate program as mature applicants. Each applicant will be considered on an individual basis and acceptance will be determined by counselling, Communication Placement Assessment (CPA), previous post-secondary education and evaluation of experience. Some programs also have specific prerequisite requirements that must be met prior to admission. Mature applicants must meet all program specific prerequisites. Those applying as mature students and having no documentation of Grade 12 education must supply, if required, proof of age, such as a copy of an official birth certificate or driver's licence. Refer to Sections 2.5 and 2.6 of the Academic Calendar for further details.
Graduation Requirements
26 Mandatory Courses
2 Communication Courses
3 General Education Courses
1 Field Placement
Graduation Eligibility
To graduate from this program, the passing weighted average for promotion through each semester, from year to year and to graduate is 60%. Additionally, a student must attain a minimum of 50% or a letter grade of P (Pass) or S (Satisfactory) in each course in each semester.
Mandatory
APDE1004 Applied Colour Theory
COMP1055 Computer Aided Drafting
COMP2091 Computer Aided Drafting Intermediate
COMP2092 Computer Aided Drafting Advanced
DRFT 1010 Hand Drafting and Design Technology
DRFT1011 Hand Drafting and Design Technology Intermediate
DRFT2002 Hand Drafting and Design Technology Advanced
DRWG1009 Freehand Drawing
DRWG1010 Drawing and Rendering
DRWG2003 Drawing and Rendering Advanced
HSTY2002 Early Design History
IDEC1000 Studio Basics
IDEC1001 Sustainable Materials, Finishes and Furnishings
IDEC1002 Interior Decorating Studio
IDEC1003 Applied Studio
IDEC1004 Global Issues, Materials, Finishes and Furnishings
IDEC2000 Professional Practice
IDEC2001 Media Presentation Methods
IDEC2002 Interior Decorating Studio Intermediate
IDEC2003 Applied Studio Advanced
IDEC2004 Professional Practice Advanced
IDEC2005 Interior Decorating Studio Advanced
IDEC2006 Materials, Finishes, Furnishings and Accessories Advanced Applications
INTD2009 Lighting Systems and Design
INTD3008 History of Furniture
MKTG2025 Selling and Merchandizing
The descriptions that follow provide brief outlines of the courses. Please note that some courses have prerequisite and/or corequisite requirements not shown here, that need to be met in order to enroll in the course. You will be advised of any requisite requirements during the registration process, or you can contact the academic area for further details.
Communications
COMM1001 Communications at Work
Plus one addition communications to be selected from College list
(Note: this is in addition to any mandatory communications listed for the program)
General Education Courses
To be selected from College list
Field Placement
IDEC2007 Field Placement
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
APDE1004 Applied Colour Theory - 28.0 Hours
This course introduces the student to colour principles, theories and systems related to the design of interior environments. Light and colour interrelationships and their effects on human social and psychological behavior are explored. The physics and language of colour are studied as applied to interior design.
COMM1001 Communications at Work 42.0 Hours
In the workplace, employers require high standards of communication skills. Students develop their communication skills for the workplace as they research, write and edit work-related correspondence and reports. Using technology, they individually and collaboratively design and deliver professional presentations and meetings. This course focuses on communication tasks specific to students' program areas and their future careers.
COMP1055 Computer Aided Drafting - 42.0 Hours
This course is the first in a series of three that introduces students to computer-aided drafting. Students will become familiar with the basic principles of electronic drafting through instruction and exploration of various software applications specific to the interior decorating field. File management systems, basic software functions, and production methods will be utilized to create two-dimensional, technical drawings.
COMP2091 Computer Aided Drafting Intermediate - 28.0 Hours
This course builds on basic computer aided drafting applications and introduces students to AutoCAD software. An extensive hands-on technology experience is delivered in a computer lab with emphasis on two-dimensional drafting and three-dimensional modeling. Using both AutoCAD and other leading industry software applications students will develop skills in conceptual communication and drawing productivity.
COMP2092 Computer Aided Drafting Advanced - 28.0 Hours
This course introduces students to computer generated, rendering techniques and builds on knowledge gained in Computer Aided Drafting and Computer Aided Drafting Intermediate to further develop drawing productivity and communication skills. A working knowledge of AutoCAD is integrated with three-dimensional modeling and rendering applications enabling students to effectively communicate interior decorating concepts and produce industry standard, documentation of final decorating applications.
DRFT1010 Hand Drafting and Design Technology - 28.0 Hours
This course introduces students to mechanical hand drafting techniques and principles of contract documentation. Students will learn how to use mechanical drafting equipment to produce architectural lettering, floor plans, elevations, sections and orthographic projections. In addition to developing basic drafting skills, students will also study complex documentation to develop the skills necessary to read, understand and interpret technical drawings and specifications produced by architectural technologies, electrical, mechanical, structural and hydraulic engineers and landscape architects.
DRFT1011 Hand Drafting and Design Technology Intermediate - 28.0 Hours
With a focus on precision and accuracy, this course examines the principles of interior detailing and construction and further develops the use of architectural drawing conventions and techniques. Students will utilize drafting methods and standards to specify the assembly of decorating elements within existing architectural and newly renovated interior space. The importance of building code compliance and the role of regulatory authorities will be introduced.
DRFT2002 Hand Drafting and Design Technology Advanced - 28.0 Hours
In this course, students apply advanced drafting methods and techniques to produce working drawings and documentation for interior space including floor plans, and millwork, furniture and custom cabinetry detailing. Appropriate materials, joinery methods, specialty hardware, fastening systems and lighting integration will be studied and applied to the detailing of custom interior decorating elements. This course is integrated with other courses and results in the production of a comprehensive package of construction drawings.
DRWG1009 Freehand Drawing - 28.0 Hours
In this course, students develop effective drawing techniques as a specialized form of visual communication. Quality and expressiveness of line are developed. Life drawing, still life drawing and sketching techniques are utilized to assist students in creating images of their ideas about two-dimensional shapes and three-dimensional forms and spaces. Human figure sketches will be incorporated in perspective drawings of architectural environments.
DRWG1010 Drawing and Rendering - 28.0 Hours
This course develops specific drawing skills used in the communication of interior decorating concepts. Students learn how to produce quick spatial sketches as part of the creative process as well as technical one and two point perspectives for presentation. The effective use of multi-media, drawing surfaces, and illustration methods will be emphasized with a focus on the use of rendering techniques that effectively communicate materials, textures, shade, shadow, and tonal values within three-dimensional space.
DRWG2003 Drawing and Rendering Advanced - 28.0 Hours
In this course, students will build on skills developed in Freehand Drawing and Drawing and Rendering resulting in illustrations that effectively communicate decorating concepts with delineating detail. The development and completion of a portfolio of illustrations will effectively demonstrate student drawing and rendering abilities.
HSTY2002 Early Design History - 42.0 Hours
This course introduces students to the foundations of the period styles of architecture and interiors used in North America from the beginnings of European settlement to the beginning of the 19th century. The influences of earlier styles - from pre-historic through the Greco-Roman period to the French Empire Period - are explored and brought into context with the later periods of architectural history. Social and political relevancies will be established to help explain the development of the environmental design arts. Students will keep a notebook with information and pictures of the various styles studied. This will become a valuable resource for future reference.
IDEC1000 Studio Basics - 42.0 Hours
This studio course introduces students to the social and psychological effects that decorators can create within interior space. In addition, elements and principles, functional and aesthetic criteria and process methods that facilitate spatial planning, anthropometric applications and interior decorating and design are studied. Small scale exercises and in-class assignments guide students through interior decorating techniques with a focus on function, spatial merit and theories of beauty.
IDEC1001 Sustainable Materials, Finishes and Furnishings 42.0 Hours
This course introduces students to a comprehensive collection of interior materials, finishes, furnishings, and textiles used within the interior decorating profession with a focus on physical properties, practical applications, and aesthetic attributes. Hands-on use of materials and field trips emphasize appropriate applications, manufacturing processes, sourcing, and installation methods within the context of health, safety, and sustainable issues. Group and individual assignments involve research, product analysis, and student presentations of interior applications.
IDEC1002 Interior Decorating Studio - 42.0 Hours
This studio course focuses on assignment and project based learning, and builds on knowledge gained in Studio Basics. Students will further develop space planning skills and the ability to specify lighting, materials, finishes, furniture, fixtures, and appliances based on specific functional requirements and aesthetic concepts. Interior decorating techniques will be applied to small scale spaces specific to apartment and condominium living. Assignments, research, in-studio critiques, student presentations, and site visits support the learning experience.
IDEC1003 Applied Studio - 28.0 Hours
This applied studio focuses on the development and application of interior decorating services to real project scenarios. Actual small scale projects will be completed to the tendering stage and will involve real clients, the programming of their needs, continued professional communications between client and consultant, schematic design proposals, design development, estimating, specifying, and the completion of contract documentation.
IDEC1004 Global Issues, Materials, Finishes and Furnishings - 42.0 Hours
This course explores global issues in relation to the evaluation, selection, and sourcing of materials, finishes, and furnishings. Interior window treatments, flooring, wall applications, appliances, bedding, table and chair coverings, and exterior roofing and building façade options, deck, path, landscaping and furnishings are studied. Estimating quantities and product costing are introduced.
IDEC2000 Professional Practice - 28.0 Hours
This course presents a variety of employment options and assists student in developing a personal plan for job attainment and career success. Self assessment and personal goals are examined and individual marketing strategies and promotional deliverables are produced. Specific employable skills including entrepreneurship, knowledge of employer expectations, fundamental business procedures, office communications, the development and management of client relations and job organization, scheduling, and coordination prepare students for field placement and future employment.
IDEC2001 Media Presentation Methods - 42.0 Hours
In this course, students will develop two-dimensional layout, graphic, and language skills to communicate decorating concepts and produce promotional material. Techniques for digital image capture and manipulation, and presentation methods using still and motion formats, and electronic rendering techniques blend technical software applications with strong image and text content. Skills developed in this course support presentation and promotional material used in other courses. An electronic portfolio demonstrating decorating skills will be completed by each student.
IDEC2002 Interior Decorating Studio Intermediate - 42.0 Hours
This studio course focuses on the development and documentation of a decorating solution for a mid sized residence. The creative process will be used to space plan, light, furnish and decorate interior living spaces and exterior entertaining and relaxation areas. Exterior lighting, pathway and landscaping design will be introduced resulting in a comprehensive design and decorating solution. Analytical, rational and presentation skills are realized through research, hands-on project development, in-studio critiques and student presentations.
IDEC2003 Applied Studio Advanced - 28.0 Hours
This applied studio uses real project scenarios to design and decorate a custom residential kitchen and bath. A real client will provide the design criteria needed to successfully complete a set of fully documented drawings for the project and to partner with the student through the design process. The project will include methods of coordinating with other disciplines and trades involved in the delivery of the project together with strategies for budget control.
IDEC2004 Professional Practice Advanced - 42.0 Hours
This course sets out standard industry procedures and guidelines applicable to the business of interior decorating. Established operating methodologies including fees for service and fees for product proposals, administration of contracts, project coordination, management, documentation responsibilities, and financial record keeping, are examined within the context of ethical, legal, liability and accountability obligations. Lectures, case studies, and guest speakers provide students with a solid and professionally recognized business model on which to build a professional practice.
IDEC2005 Interior Decorating Studio Advanced - 42.0 Hours
This studio course further develops and refines residential, interior decorating skills and applies them to a large scale, custom and integrated, interior decorating, presentation and documentation project. Function specific, custom detailing, exceptional design and unique and distinct decorating applications will be applied to satisfy project design criteria. This studio is integrated with knowledge gained in other courses and culminates into a major student presentation exhibiting a comprehensive decorating and design solution.
IDEC2006 Materials, Finishes, Furnishings and Accessories Advanced Applications - 42.0 Hours
This course introduces students to commercial material and finishes applications focusing on functional and aesthetic characteristics, and acoustic, durability, and flammability properties. Specialized interior materials, finishes and hardware are examined for use in custom applications relating to millwork, and casegood assembly. In addition, distinguishing residential environments with an emphasis on accessories, decorating with antiques, objects of art, and specialized artisan applied finishes are researched and applied to projects in other courses.
IDEC2007 Field Placement - 98.0 Hours
This course prepares students for entry into the interior decorating profession by providing an opportunity to learn through experience. In consultation with a faculty advisor, each student will find and apply for a 98 hour work term in the Interior Decorating field. During the work term, students will record their experience in relation to skill development, achievements and personal goals. Students will participate in a mid-term and final evaluation to gain feedback, guidance and support.
INTD2009 Lighting Systems and Design - 28.0 Hours
In this course, students study the principles of lighting design. Concepts, nomenclature and equipment are defined. Lighting theory and principles are applied to various interior environments.
INTD3008 History of Furniture - 28.0 Hours
Students study the evolution of the design of interior furnishings as an integral part of their unique cultural environment, from ancient Egypt to the present. Historical information is presented with emphasis placed on the geographical, social, economic, political and technical influences that shaped change. The focus of this course is on the fundamental integration of furnishings into the built environment, including the architectural setting, characteristic design motifs and decorative accessories.
MKTG2025 Selling and Merchandizing - 42.0 Hours
In this course, students will learn the psychology, theories and strategies behind the development of client relations, promoting of services and merchandizing and selling. Market targets, sales forecasting and the impact of economic circumstances related to selling will be studied. Knowledge gained through lectures, research and assignments will be applied to a specific project that incorporates product and service display, spatial planning, and interior decorating of all elements within a retail establishment.
Adults with significant life and work experience may receive credits toward a college certificate or diploma program through an assessment process.
More information about Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
NOTE: Information contained in College documents respecting programs is correct at the time of publication. Academic content of programs and courses is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational objectives and employment market needs. The college reserves the right to add or delete programs, options, courses, timetables or campus locations subject to sufficient enrolment, and the availability of courses.
Last Update: March 08, 2012.