FNA 3200 (LUOA), FACS 200 (LUO): Interior Design I

07/01/2018 to 12/31/2199 • Modified 08/06/2026

Course Description

This course explores the spatial relationship humans have with their environment in two and three dimensional applications through applied research.

For information regarding prerequisites for this course, please refer to the Academic Course Catalog.

Rationale

Human-centered design is at the core of excellent interior design. This foundational course will introduce students to theories of design, and they will manipulate and apply them a menagerie of projects over the semester.

Course Assignment

Textbook readings and lecture presentations/notes

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (4)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to provide a thread in response to the provided prompt for each Discussion. Each thread must be 150 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is required to reply to 2 other classmates’ threads. Each reply must be 100 words. (CLO: A, C, D, F)

Theory in Action – Gestalt Assignment

The student will select two different Gestalt Laws and create two individual monochromatic 3D models representing each law, accompanied by sketches exploring design ideas. Then, the student will develop a third combined model that unifies elements from both initial models into a conceptual art installation. For each model, the student will write a brief paragraph explaining the Gestalt Law represented and key visual or structural elements. The student will photograph all models and sketches and submit them with the written descriptions. (CLO: C, D)

Color Theory Assignment

The student will design a small interior space centered on a single emotion using color as the primary design element. The student will select 1 emotion and a specific interior space to design. The chosen emotion and space will remain consistent throughout all project components. The student will write a research paper of at least 400 words in current MLA format that identifies the colors associated with the chosen emotion. The research paper should also include a selected color scheme, an explanation of why these colors support the emotion, at least 3 scholarly sources cited in current MLA format, a brief case study of a designer, space, or project that successfully uses similar colors, and a reflection on how the chosen colors were applied in that case study. Additionally, the student will create a digital mood board (18 by 24 inches) in either portrait or landscape format. The mood board should follow a clean, grid-based layout, use high resolution images only, and ensure all images are properly labeled. The submission will include a brief 3 sentence summary from the research paper that highlights the chosen emotion, the main color approach and rationale, and the overall design goal or effect the space should achieve. The student must submit a copy of the research paper and mood board to receive full credit. (CLO: A, C, D, E, F)

Designing for a Small Space Assignment

The student will design a small, purpose-driven interior space by applying the full design process, from client research to final presentation. After selecting a space type (reading nook, home office, prayer alcove, or guest room), the student will create a client profile, develop a concept using a mood board, and produce a visual layout (collage, sketch, or rendering). The student will annotate their design to explain how it meets the client’s physical, sensory, and emotional needs, and conclude with a written reflection. All components must be submitted as a single PDF. (CLO: A, B, D, F)

Mood Through Materials Assignment

The student will explore how materials and finishes convey emotion by selecting a mood and creating a tactile collage with 6–8 physical or digital material samples. The student will photograph the collage, label each material with its name and intended use, and write a 100–150 word concept statement explaining how the material choices support the chosen mood and incorporate sensory elements. The complete submission will be compiled as a multi-page PDF including images, labels, and the written statement. (CLO: A, C, D, E, F)

Quizzes (8)

Each quiz will cover the Learn material for the assigned module. Each quiz will be open-book/open notes, contain 10 multiple-choice, true/false questions and have a 60–minute time limit. (CLO: B, C)