At times, people tend to confuse the role of an interior designer with an interior decorator. Although interior decorating is part of the mix, interior design encompasses so much more! New England Tech’s Associate in Science and Bachelor of Design Degree programs in Interior Design Technology prepare students to consider the needs and desires of clients whether it’s for a place to live, work, heal, play or learn. Interior designers must plan for the “welfare, safety and health” of individuals by critically assessing the psychological, social, physical and spiritual needs, as it applies to designing as well as decorating the space.
New England Tech students are taught to problem solve by first developing a clear understanding of the needs and wants of the client along with the existing conditions of the given space. Knowledge of building construction and code requirements help students design practical solutions taking into account the human factors in space planning, material and finishes, color, lighting, heating, ventilation, acoustics, fixtures and furniture. Students use clear methods of communicating to demonstrate their design thinking by using hand drawn, AutoCAD and Building Information Modeling (BIM) methods. They learn to design, think, and communicate professionally and ethically by making presentations both verbally and visually.
Interior designers certainly incorporate decoration into their plan, but the quality of life must also be considered. These professionals must apply their knowledge of materials, interior construction and building codes when creating a space. Designers must address existing building conditions and plan for the health, safety and well-being of the individuals who will be using the space. Understanding the characteristics of materials, light, indoor air quality, and the products being utilized are all part of the design plan.
Graduates of NEIT’s Interior Design Technology programs have demonstrated their creativity and skills in a wide variety of industries. Dawn L. Edmondson, MFA, IA NEIT’s Assistant Professor, Department of Design and Architectural Building Technology & Humanities and Social Sciences stated, “Our graduates have pursued every possible facet of the interior design industry
including sales, specification and design. Some assume leadership roles and others support roles. It really depends upon their personal interests and the economic opportunities they unearth. We have graduates that are working in all facets of the industry including residential, health care, office, retail and hospitality design.”
Kendra Morales (pictured on the right), a 2010 graduate of NEIT’s Bachelor of Science Degree program in Interior Design Technology, is now an Assistant Designer at Kelly Taylor Interior Design in Providence, RI. Kendra’s responsibilities involve many facets of interior design. Before diving into AutoCAD to draft floor plans, elevations and section details, she must take measurements in the field and document existing conditions. She utilizes 3D computer software to help clients visualize their space and creates physical material boards including product specifications for client presentations. Putting her design and decorating expertise to work, she shops for fabrics, furniture and fixtures to complete the project.
Kendra stated, “The complexity and diversity that the interior design industry entails is the pure reason why I love what I do every day. Finding stylish décor and playing with pretty fabrics is only the icing on the cake. Most of the time, this profession involves problem solving, organization, a detailed mindset and the ability to adapt to a variety of situations. I am so proud and grateful for the stepping stone that my NEIT degree has given me. Now I am eligible to take the National Council for Interior Design Qualification exam known as the NCIDQ exam since I have fulfilled the required number of education credits and hours of experience. Obtaining this certification will further distinguish me as a design professional.”
For more information regarding New England Tech’s Interior Design Technology programs, contact the Admissions Office at: 800-736-7744, 401-467-7744 or visit:
www.neit.edu.
8 | Rhode Island Creative Magazine
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