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Interior Design Essentials

Joan Abou-Haidar and Marie Kerbiquet

This career-focused online course based on LaSalle College Vancouver's acclaimed Interior Design Diploma will introduce you to the fundamental concepts of Interior Design.

You will learn to identify key design trends and the movements they descend from. You will also understand colour theory and how colour has an impact on our perception of space.

By the end of this course, you will apply this knowledge to develop compelling interior design concepts and mood boards for client presentations.

This short course is suitable for anyone looking to build or switch towards a rewarding Interior Design career.

Read more

This career-focused online course based on LaSalle College Vancouver's acclaimed Interior Design Diploma will introduce you to the fundamental concepts of Interior Design.

You will learn to identify key design trends and the movements they descend from. You will also understand colour theory and how colour has an impact on our perception of space.

By the end of this course, you will apply this knowledge to develop compelling interior design concepts and mood boards for client presentations.

This short course is suitable for anyone looking to build or switch towards a rewarding Interior Design career.

What you'll learn

  • Identify specific design movements from objects, furniture or architecture.

  • Integrate global perspectives and cross-cultural influences into your design work.

  • Come up with effective colour schemes.

  • Create interior design concepts that fulfill a client’s request.

  • Design moodboards to communicate your concept efficiently.

Enroll now

What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1: Analyzing design movements from key historical periods
Module 2: Examining global perspectives and cross-cultural influences in the evolution of design
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops key design trends and movements, which are core skills for interior designers
Examines global perspectives and cross-cultural influences in the evolution of design, which is standard in industry
Adapts artistic and historic elements to an interior design concept, which is useful for personal growth and development
Examines the main colour theories and classification systems that influenced design, which is highly relevant to industry
Uses colour to shape a space and create effects, which is highly relevant to industry
Creates a design intention and moodboard, which is standard in industry

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Reviews summary

Foundational interior design for career beginners

According to students, Interior Design Essentials is a largely positive and foundational course, highly recommended for those looking to begin a career in interior design or understand its core principles. Learners frequently praise the clear and engaging lectures and the well-structured content. A significant strength highlighted by many is the practical application, particularly the hands-on experience of creating compelling mood boards and developing client concepts, which students found immediately applicable. While it excels at providing a strong base, a few learners noted that its 'essentials' focus means it may offer limited depth for those with prior experience or seeking advanced topics, suggesting it's best suited for absolute beginners.
Provides insightful coverage of color theory and design history.
"The color theory module was particularly enlightening and well-explained, greatly improving my understanding of its impact."
"I found the material on global influences insightful and it added a unique perspective to my design thinking."
"I learned a lot about design movements and how they influence current trends, providing good historical context."
Content is well-structured and easy to understand for all learners.
"The instructor was very clear and made complex topics easy to understand, guiding me through each module effectively."
"Lectures were well-structured and engaging, keeping me motivated throughout. I found the delivery style excellent."
"I loved the clear explanations and the logical flow of the modules, it made learning enjoyable."
Focuses on tangible skills like creating client presentations.
"The module on mood boards was incredibly useful. I immediately applied it to my portfolio."
"Learning to create client concepts and mood boards was the highlight. Very practical."
"The hands-on practice with mood boards made the theories click and felt very applicable for real-world scenarios."
Provides an excellent starting point for new designers.
"Excellent course for anyone starting out in interior design. Covers the essentials thoroughly."
"A great introduction to core concepts, especially for someone with no prior experience."
"I found it ideal for building a solid understanding from scratch, very clear and logical."
Primarily suited for beginners, potentially limited for experienced designers.
"Too basic for my needs. It's truly 'essentials' and not much more than a surface-level introduction."
"Good starting point, but don't expect to become a pro just from this course. I needed more advanced topics."
"I wished for more practical exercises beyond the mood board, perhaps real-world case studies for complex scenarios."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Interior Design Essentials with these activities:
Review basic principles of design
Revisit the fundamentals of design principles, such as balance, harmony, and contrast, to strengthen your understanding of interior design concepts.
Browse courses on Design Principles
Show steps
  • Read articles or books on design principles.
  • Review online resources or attend workshops on the topic.
Follow tutorials on color theory and its application in interior design
Explore online tutorials that provide practical guidance on color theory and its application in interior design.
Browse courses on Color Theory
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on color theory and interior design.
  • Follow the tutorials to learn about color schemes, harmonies, and effects.
Identify design movements from images
Practice identifying different design movements by examining images of furniture, architecture, and interior spaces.
Show steps
  • Collect images of different design styles.
  • Analyze the images to identify key characteristics of each style.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Engage in design discussions with classmates
Participate in online or in-person discussions with classmates to exchange ideas, provide feedback, and enhance understanding of design concepts.
Browse courses on Interior Design
Show steps
  • Connect with classmates online or in person.
  • Share design projects and ideas.
  • Discuss and provide feedback on each other's work.
Create a blog post on a specific design trend
Research and write a blog post that explores a specific design trend, providing insights and examples from the field.
Browse courses on Design Trends
Show steps
  • Choose a design trend to focus on.
  • Research the trend to gather relevant information.
  • Write the blog post, including examples and visuals.
Design a mood board for a specific space
Create a mood board that visually represents the design concept for a specific space, using images, colors, and textures.
Browse courses on Mood Boards
Show steps
  • Gather images and materials that reflect the desired design aesthetic.
  • Arrange the images and materials on a physical or digital board.
Design a living space for a specific client
Create a design concept for a real-world client to apply your knowledge of design movements, color theory, and space planning.
Browse courses on Interior Design
Show steps
  • Meet with the client to discuss their needs and preferences.
  • Develop a design concept that meets the client's requirements.
  • Create a mood board and presentation to showcase your design.
Contribute to open-source interior design projects
Engage in open-source projects related to interior design, such as contributing to design software or sharing resources with the community.
Browse courses on Interior Design
Show steps
  • Explore open-source interior design projects online.
  • Identify ways to contribute your skills and knowledge.

Career center

Learners who complete Interior Design Essentials will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Interior designer
An Interior Designer plans, researches, and manages projects to determine space requirements and create interior environments for residential and commercial projects. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials introduces you to the fundamental concepts of Interior Design, helping you understand color theory and how color has an impact on our perception of space. This knowledge is essential for Interior Designers, as they need to be able to create interior design concepts that fulfill a client’s request. Additionally, this course covers topics such as analyzing design movements from key historical periods and examining global perspectives and cross-cultural influences in the evolution of design. This knowledge can help Interior Designers create designs that are both stylish and respectful of different cultures.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer
Interior Architect
Similar to an Interior Designer, an Interior Architect creates interior spaces, but they focus more on the architectural aspects of interior design. They may also be responsible for the structural integrity of a building's interior. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials can help aspiring Interior Architects develop their understanding of color theory and its impact on the perception of space. This course also covers topics such as analyzing design movements from key historical periods. This knowledge can help Interior Architects create designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interior Architect
Event Designer
An Event Designer plans and executes events, such as weddings, corporate functions, and parties. They are responsible for the overall look and feel of an event, including the décor, lighting, and furniture. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials can help aspiring Event Designers develop their skills in color theory and space planning. This course also covers topics such as creating mood boards and design concepts. This knowledge can help Event Designers create events that are both stylish and memorable.
See salaries and explore the career path for Event Designer
Visual Merchandiser
A Visual Merchandiser creates visually appealing displays for retail stores and other businesses. They use their knowledge of color theory and space planning to create displays that attract customers and increase sales. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials can help aspiring Visual Merchandisers develop their skills in color theory and visual merchandising. This course also covers topics such as creating mood boards and design concepts. This knowledge can help Visual Merchandisers create displays that are both visually appealing and effective.
See salaries and explore the career path for Visual Merchandiser
Furniture Designer
A Furniture Designer creates furniture for homes, offices, and other spaces. They use their knowledge of design, materials, and construction to create furniture that is both functional and stylish. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials can help aspiring Furniture Designers develop their skills in design and color theory.
See salaries and explore the career path for Furniture Designer
Lighting Designer
A Lighting Designer creates lighting solutions for homes, offices, and other spaces. They use their knowledge of lighting techniques and equipment to create lighting designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials can help aspiring Lighting Designers develop their understanding of color theory and its impact on the perception of space. This course also covers topics such as analyzing design movements from key historical periods.
See salaries and explore the career path for Lighting Designer
Product Designer
A Product Designer creates products for homes, offices, and other spaces. They use their knowledge of design, materials, and manufacturing to create products that are both functional and stylish. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials can help aspiring Product Designers develop their skills in design and color theory.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer
Fashion Designer
A Fashion Designer creates clothing and accessories for people of all ages and sizes. They use their knowledge of design, materials, and sewing to create clothing that is both stylish and functional. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials may be useful for aspiring Fashion Designers, as it can help them develop their skills in color theory and visual merchandising.
See salaries and explore the career path for Fashion Designer
Graphic Designer
A Graphic Designer creates visual concepts and designs for various media, such as print, web, and advertising. They use their knowledge of design principles and software to create visual content that is both visually appealing and effective. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials may be useful for aspiring Graphic Designers, as it can help them develop their skills in color theory and visual merchandising.
See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic Designer
Architect
An Architect designs buildings and other structures. They use their knowledge of design, engineering, and construction to create buildings that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials may be useful for aspiring Architects, as it can help them develop their skills in color theory and space planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Architect
Landscape Architect
A Landscape Architect designs outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and playgrounds. They use their knowledge of design, horticulture, and construction to create outdoor spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials may be useful for aspiring Landscape Architects, as it can help them develop their skills in color theory and space planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect
Interior Decorator
An Interior Decorator plans and executes the decoration of interior spaces, such as homes, offices, and retail stores. They use their knowledge of design, materials, and furniture to create spaces that are both stylish and functional. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials may be useful for aspiring Interior Decorators, as it can help them develop their skills in color theory and visual merchandising.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interior Decorator
Project Manager
A Project Manager plans, executes, and closes projects. They use their knowledge of project management principles and software to manage projects that are on time, on budget, and within scope. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials may be useful for aspiring Project Managers, as it can help them develop their skills in space planning and visual merchandising.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Construction Manager
A Construction Manager plans, executes, and closes construction projects. They use their knowledge of construction principles and software to manage projects that are on time, on budget, and within scope. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials may be useful for aspiring Construction Managers, as it can help them develop their skills in space planning and visual merchandising.
See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Manager
Real Estate Agent
A Real Estate Agent helps people buy, sell, and rent properties. They use their knowledge of the real estate market and their negotiation skills to help their clients get the best possible deal. LaSalle College Vancouver's online course in Interior Design Essentials may be useful for aspiring Real Estate Agents, as it can help them develop their skills in visual merchandising and space planning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Agent

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Interior Design Essentials.
Cover image
Kelly Hoppen's Essential Style Solutions for Every...
Save
This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of interior design, tracing the evolution of design from historical periods through to contemporary trends. The book includes practical advice, case studies, and stunning visuals that bring the concepts to life.
Kelly Hoppen's Essential Style Solutions for Every...
Paperback
Check
Kelly Hoppen's Essential Style Solutions for Every...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
SketchUp for Builders
Save
A widely used textbook and industry reference guide, this handbook offers a comprehensive overview of interior design principles, techniques, and practices. It provides detailed coverage of various design styles, materials, furnishings, and lighting.
SketchUp for Builders
Paperback
Check
SketchUp for Builders
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Eileen Hogan
Save
Provides a thorough overview of color theory, which is essential for the 'Using color to shape a space and create effects' module.
Eileen Hogan: Personal Geographies
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
French Impressions
Save
Delves into the fundamentals of color theory and its application in interior design. It explains how colors can affect the mood, atmosphere, and perception of space, making it essential reading for understanding the impact of color choices.
French Impressions
Hardcover
$$$
French Impressions
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Elements of Color
Save
A classic text on color theory that delves into the psychological and perceptual aspects of color.
The Elements of Color: A Treatise on the Color...
Hardcover
$$$$
1970 Vtg Elements of Color Johannes Itten Art...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
A History of Interior Design
Save
Offers a comprehensive historical overview of interior design, tracing its evolution from ancient civilizations to the present day. It provides a solid understanding of the cultural and social influences that have shaped design styles throughout history.
A History of Interior Design
Paperback
Check
A History of Interior Design
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Elements of Family Style
Save
A practical guide written by a professional interior designer, this book provides insights into creating a cohesive and stylish home that reflects one's personality and lifestyle.
Elements of Family Style: Elegant Spaces for...
Hardcover
$$
Elements of Family Style: Elegant Spaces for...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book...
Save
An essential reference tool for interior designers, this book provides technical information, specifications, and data on materials, products, and systems used in the industry.
The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Designology
Save
Examines the psychological aspects of interior design, exploring how spaces can influence human behavior, emotions, and well-being.
Designology: How to Find Your PlaceType and Align...
Paperback
$$
Designology: How to Find Your PlaceType & Align...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Creative Reuse of Buildings: Volume One
Save
A practical guide to interior decoration, covering topics such as color schemes, furniture selection, and accessorizing. Provides step-by-step instructions and useful tips for creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces.
Creative Reuse of Buildings: Volume One
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
A John Heskett Reader
Save
Provides a concise overview of the history of interior design, from ancient times to the present day. Explores the major styles, movements, and influences that have shaped the evolution of interior spaces.
A John Heskett Reader
Paperback
Check
A John Heskett Reader
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Effort
6 to 8 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Elementary
Via
edX
Institution
LCI Education
Instructors
Joan Abou-Haidar
Marie Kerbiquet
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops key design trends and movements, which are core skills for interior designers
Examines global perspectives and cross-cultural influences in the evolution of design, which is standard in industry
Adapts artistic and historic elements to an interior design concept, which is useful for personal growth and development
Examines the main colour theories and classification systems that influenced design, which is highly relevant to industry
Uses colour to shape a space and create effects, which is highly relevant to industry
Creates a design intention and moodboard, which is standard in industry
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