Oliver 1

Athalia Jade Oliver

Mr. Alburger

English III Honors

January 5th, 2018

Interior Design

The birth of interior design, most credited to the Ancient Egyptians, decorated their huts

and homes with simple furniture decorated with animal skin or textiles. These huts, lined wall to

wall with sculptures, painted vases and murals, were small and makeshift. Gold ornaments

appealed to the more lavish and wealthy lifestyle of the Ancient Egyptians. The Romans and the

Greeks took ideas from the Egyptian art of interior decorating and accessorizing. Both of these

civilization used domed-roof public buildings and celebrated their achievements in inventing this

form of design. Throughout history, many interior designers join others in history by

participating in years of schooling to partake in this particular lifestyle.

During the Stone Age, 6000 to 2000 BC, the first evidence of interior design was found

in the art of the humans. Although, they have focused on practicalities they still took time to

decorate their homes with drawings of either humans, plants, animals, etc. Tribes of this era

made huts of mud, animals skins and sticks. (Interior Design Timeline)

During the Egyptian Era, from 2,700 to 30 BC, civilians still lived in huts of mud, but the

royal families lived in the voluptuous buildings. These magnificent buildings were decorated
 Oliver 2

with large murals that also depicted their beliefs and their history. They had typical furniture as

well as vases and sculptures to use in their homes. (Interior Design Timeline)

The Greek (1,200 to 31 BC) and the Roman (753 BC to 480 AD) eras were also very important

times. In the Greek Era, the improvements and innovations allowed for typical people to decorate

their homes based upon their own styles. The wealthier of the people obtained furniture

containing silver and ivory. The Greeks also brought in rules for construction of buildings which

iconically contained magnificent pillars. In the Roman Era, this was the first real time where the

wealthy were unable to display their wealth through their homes. They decorated with mosaics

and murals, as well as bespoke furniture. The typical Roman furniture had clawed feet as well as

soft furnishings. (Interior Design Timeline)

The Dark Ages, became a time of somber wood, stone-slab floors and minimal furniture.

Even the wealthier of individuals, whom added wall decor and vases, stuck to muted colors and

neutrals. Though coming out of the Dark Ages, vibrant colors and ornamentation, once again

became introduced into homes. In the 12th century, the gothic designs; known for their open

concept and large windows; allowed for extensive amounts of natural light. In the 15th and 16th

century, also known as the rebirth, led to a new focus of art and beauty in interior design in

homes. Architects began creating spaces with elaborate textile elements such as marbled floors,

paintings, intricate woodwork, and furniture made from the finest of wood. These elements of

interior design prevailed in castles, royal palaces, villas and chapels of Europe.

After the Renaissance, the elaborate Italian Baroque style increased in popularity

throughout Europe. As shown in the Palace of Versailles in France, Baroque made use of
 Oliver 3

intricate interior design elements such as stained glass, twisted columns and painted ceilings. In

the mid-18th century, the Rococo style grew in popularity to the Europeans. Showing particular

admiration for flower designs, Asian porcelain, and furniture made from lavish materials such as

tortoise shell and mother-of-pearl. The Neoclassical look of the late 18th century was a spinoff of

the classical design of ancient Rome. They made use of velvet, silk, bronze and satin.

During the Industrial Revolution (1760 to 1820 AD), interior design was introduced to a

larger audience and was more accessible to the general population. This due to the luxury items

of the past became much more affordable and printed media began to become prevalent,

featuring fashion and design. The Neoclassical style (1780 to 1880 AD), was inspired from

ancient cultures of Greece and Rome. This could be seen as the architecture and designs or that

time, but also in the furniture which heavily used metals such as bronze and other fabrics such as

silk, satin, and velvet.

However, from the early 1800s on, in America and Europe, an inclination also started

towards more freedom and eclecticism in interior design. Over the next few centuries, multiple

innovated and modern interior design styles would come to pass into fashion including Art

Nouveau, the minimalist look, Art Deco, and the industrial Bauhaus style. Another 19th century

trend was the popularization of interior design. Once introduced in royal palaces or the homes of

the wealthy, interior design in the 1800s reached the masses. By the 20th century, the stove,

washing machine, telephone, and television produced a new challenge for the interior design

industry. Those who planned spaces not on for aesthetic purposes, but also for functionality
 Oliver 4

experienced difficulties. These appliances and designs created for a difficult time in the interior

design industry and were obstacles to interior designers.

The Aesthetic Movement (1800s) was a movement seen as a way for reformers to show

their defiance to current design. The focus was for the decorations to have a purpose before they

had beauty. The Tuscan times (1840s to now) were influenced by the calm nature of Tuscany in

Italy. The focus was very much on simplicity and elegance but with a touch of luxury and

beauty.

The Asian Era (1900s to now) was known for its minimalist look that the Asian style

featured. It featured the use of natural materials and furniture. This furniture included futons,

screens, and mats. While the Chinese ornaments were deep in design and colour, the Japanese

were very basic and focused on functionality.

The Mediterranean period, from the 1920s to today, textures such as plastered walls,

terracotta and stone are used to recreate the feel of coastal European countries. Wrought iron,

aqua colours and patterned tiles, used to give an extra element of style. Mid-century modern in

the 1930s was also an important time in the history of interior design. The goal, to bring the

outdoors in and therefore big windows and open planned rooms utilised. The style was relatively

simple.

The Transitional Period, from the 1950s to today, seen as classic with a modern take on

it. The goal of this time period is to be timeless while also blending the old with the new: not as

minimal and basic in design as contemporary or mid-century modern, but with decor focused on

simplicity. Traditional elements are kept in the design and furniture with ornate elements. The
 Oliver 5

contemporary period, from the 1980s until today, consisted of neutral colours. It also consisted

of furniture made of typical materials such as wood and stainless steel. The minimal amount of

ornaments was to aim for a clean and uncluttered and cramped feel. Bright colours, sometimes

used to contrast, were used against the all around neutral feel.

The field of interior design came a long way from the mud and brick days of the ancient

Egyptians during the early centuries. Designers today obtain access to synthetic and man-made

materials. They can build upon the influences and designs of past generations. They also

constantly attempt to create new designs and trends.

Many steps must occur first to become an interior designer. You must first get a certain

degree in interior design. While the degree is not required, most interior design firms require a

person to obtain at least a bachelor’s degree. One who participates in this particular field may not

be required to have a degree, but some​ degree​ in another area prevails as acceptable when

coursework accompanies it in interior design, such as drawing and computer-aided design.

Degrees such as the doctorate, associates, and masters are also available.

Many colleges offer the course of interior design. Although, some colleges are more

advanced than others in this particular field of study. According to Francesca Fulciniti, the top

five colleges for interior design include New York School of Interior Design, Parsons The New

School for Design, Pratt Institute, Rhode Island School of Design and Savannah College of Art

and Design. Fulciniti states that when attending the New York School of Interior Design, “92%

of students find jobs within six months of getting their degree.”

The National Association of Schools of Art and Design accredit about three hundred

post-secondary institutions with art and design programs. In addition, the Council for Interior
 Oliver 6

Design Accreditation recognizes over 150 interior design programs on the professional-level.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association accredits specialty design programs at over

forty-five different universities. Degree and certificate programs may also be found online.

Students should always check an institution's accreditation before enrolling in their program.

Following the obtaining of a degree, one must pass the National Council for Interior

Design qualification exam. Although, not all states require licensure for interior designers.

However, there are several states that prohibit unlicensed interior designers from performing

interior design work. Other states permit both unlicensed and licensed interior designers to

practice design, but only allow licensed designers to use the title “interior designer.” Licensure

requires completing and passing a state-approved exam, and typically the National Council for

Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam. To qualify for this particular exam, students must

obtain a combination of education and experience, typically the minimum of a bachelor’s degree

and at least two years on-the-job training. California residents must take the California Council

for Interior Design Certification (CCIDC) exam.

Interior designers, particularly those who begin to design, may find difficulties and

hardships when getting hired if without existing work experience. The problem that prevails

that it may not be not possible to obtain experience and knowledge without doing the work. May

brand new interior designers start out by practicing their work for free. Designers can offer their

work to either family or friends in order to gain experience, or even volunteer to help non-profit

services and organizations or even small businesses unable to pay for a professional designer.

Brand new
 Oliver 7

designers can even work on their own houses. The importance of this prevails to endure and

develop the skills that are needed when real paying jobs come into play.

Next, you must build a portfolio. Make sure to take plenty of quality photographs of work

and put them into a professional portfolio. A high-quality, comprehensive portfolio is a very

important tool for interior designers looking for clients. It not only allows for clients to get a look

at your best work, but it also allows for your ability and professionalism to be shown in an

organized manner. In addition to these photos, it must also include a section of designs, sketches,

blueprints, etc. In addition, many interior designers create online portfolios to share with clients.

Finally, one must look for ways to continue their education through opportunities. There

are many professional certifications that designers can partake in as well as staying on top of

trends and changes through attending interior design conferences. Numbers of institutions have

certificates in specialty areas, including: sustainable design, corporate interior design, designing

historic spaces and spatial theory. Furthermore, lots of conferences, workshops and summits are

offered up by many organizations through the year. The International Interior Design

Association regularly hosts events, as do the American society of Interior Designers and the

Interior Design Society.

Alex Poorman, an interior design professor at Appalachian State University in Boone,

NC, partook in an interview and answered a few questions. These questions pertaining to the

everyday life of an interior designer. When asked what a typical day looks like for him he

replied, “I have only been a professor for ten years. Prior to that I was a practicing designer for

25 years.” He went on to say, “As a professor, I teach 3-4 courses during the semester. ​ ​This
 Oliver 8

means that on any day will be in a classroom teaching 2 on Monday/Wednesday and the other 2

on Tuesday/Thursday. Each class will run two or three hours long depending on the type of

class. Lecture classes are 75-90 minutes each day and studio design classes are three to four

hours each day.” He went on to discuss what being a partner in a firm was like for him.

The interior design field interested Mr. Poorman because he thought the designing and

teaching aspect of the job were intriguing. He goes on to explain that the business and

management aspects of the job are “professionally challenging.” Mr. Poorman has worked all

over the U.S, but mostly in the Southeast. He now teaches at Appalachian State in North

Carolina and some summers he teaches a few of his students in Paris or London as a part of

study-abroad courses.

Mr. Poorman enjoys helping others solve problems. This is what he enjoys most about his

job. He goes on to explain that he rarely does any work for himself and is hired to create spaces

that “solve a problem.” He states that his job is “like finishing a really hard puzzle or math

assignment and all the answers are right. There is a sense of success and satisfaction in a job well

done.” He goes on to explain how much he enjoys his job.

According to a report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, interior designers are

projected to see growth of employment by at least 4% between 2014 and 2024, which may be

considered below average (​“Salary”​)​. In May 2015, the BLS reported that interior designers got

an annual average salary of $55,510, with most interior designers employed by the specialized

design service industry, by architectural, engineering and related services firms and by furniture

stores.
 Oliver 9

The average interior designer experiences job growth that is particularly slower than

average from 2014-2024, per the BLS. As previously discussed, we now know that the minimum

education requirement for an interior designer prevails as a bachelor’s degree. Many states have

certification requirements, and in some states it may be necessary to gain up to two years of work

experience in the particular field before one can meet the qualifications to become a licensed or

certified interior designer.

Philippe Starck is a famous French interior designer who specializes in many fields. From

interior design, to chairs, from toothbrushes to electronic appliances. In 1982, he was recognized

for his interior design work inside the former French president Francois Mitterrand’s apartment.

Some of his most important furniture pieces include: the Louis Ghost chair, Ero|S| chair, Bubble

Club Sofa and Armchair, and La Bohéme stool. As for his interior design works, these include:

The Peninsula Hong Kong in Hong Kong, Café Costes in Paris and other restaurants, clubs and

lounges.

Thierry W. Despont is another well-known interior designer. He is also an artist and

architect well-known for being “old school”. Born in France, he traveled and worked all over the

world and had multiple exhibits in New York. He was highly decorated for his work and was

part of the team that reconditioned the Statue of Liberty. His clients are known as high society

and his demands are just the same. There are many projects that his studio was involved in. One

of them

being a Swiss chalet that many people have simply fallen in love with. The project is absolutely

amazing and the result was spectacular.

 Oliver 10

Michael S. Smith is another interior designer among the best. He prevails as an American

interior designer whose headquarters are located in Los Angeles. As we know, each artist is

known for something in particular. Smith is known for the interior designing of the White House

since 2008, which is actually a representation for the American style. The White House is iconic

for the average American citizen, so you may only guess the value of the person chose to

decorate it.

Robert Bailey is a Canadian interior designer whom mixes functionality with design and

comfort with class. This is shown perfectly in his works. Patricia Urquiola is a Spanish architect

and designer. Her name, prominently known around the world for interior design and she created

many intricate and unique designs. She also developed many designs and projects abroad as well.
 Oliver 11

Works Cited

“A History of Home Decoration In Italy.” ​Life In Italy​, 2017,

<​www.lifeinitaly.com/decor/decorating/history.asp​>

Fulciniti, Francesca. “SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips.” ​10 Best Interior Design

Schools in the US​, College Info, 22 Nov. 2015, 4:00:00 pm,

<blog.prepscholar.com/10-best-interior-design-schools-in-the-us.>

“Interior Design Timeline.” ​Visual.ly​,

<visual.ly/community/infographic/home/interior-design-timeline.>

Pile, John. “The History of Interior Design.” ​ArchitectureWeek - Culture - The History of

Interior Design - 2001.0905,​ 5 Sept. 2001,

<​www.architectureweek.com/2001/0905/culture_1-1.html​>

“Salary Information.” ​Interior Designer Education Requirements and Career

Information​,
 Oliver 12

<study.com/articles/Interior_Designer_Education_Requirements_and_Career_Informatio

n.html.>

Sava, Loredana. “Top 10 Interior Designers Who Have Changed The World.” ​Home

Decorating Trends - Homedit​, 6 June 2014,

<​www.homedit.com/top-10-interior-designers-who-have-changed-the-world/6/​.>

Staff. “A Brief History of Interior Design.” ​A Brief History of Interior Design | Interior

Design School​, 22 Dec. 2012,

<​www.interior-design-school.net/history-of-interior-design.htm​>