Brief Course Descriptions for the Interior Design Program

This course introduces the fundamental skills of architectural drawing and visual communication essential to interior design. It focuses on developing the ability to read and produce drawings manually and digitally, applying standards for plans, sections, elevations, and perspectives. Visual studies support analytical thinking and graphic expression, enabling clear and professional design communication.

This course develops students’ skills in freehand drawing and model-making as essential tools in interior design. It trains students in visual observation, analytical sketching, and the representation of spatial and material qualities using various media. Students translate two-dimensional drawings into three-dimensional models to strengthen spatial understanding and effectively communicate interior design concepts.

This course introduces the fundamental principles of perspective and shadow as essential tools for visualizing interior spaces. Students learn one-, two-, and three-point perspective to represent depth, scale, and proportion accurately. Emphasis is placed on light and shadow application to enhance realism and spatial atmosphere through structured exercises integrating perspective and shading techniques.

This course introduces the fundamentals of computer-aided design (CAD) as a primary tool for producing accurate interior design drawings. Students learn to create and edit 2D plans, elevations, and sections following industry standards. Through guided exercises and projects, they develop digital drafting proficiency and the ability to translate design concepts into clear, professional technical drawings.

This course introduces the core elements and principles of design as they relate to interior environments, including balance, contrast, rhythm, emphasis, unity, and proportion. Students explore how line, shape, color, texture, and space interact to create cohesive and functional compositions. Through two- and three-dimensional exercises, they develop creative thinking, visual literacy, and aesthetic awareness essential to the interior design process.

This course introduces students to the architectural heritage of Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, highlighting their lasting influence on interior design principles such as proportion, symmetry, and symbolism. It examines key architectural developments, materials, and ornamentation through historical analysis and case studies, fostering an understanding of how classical ideas continue to inform modern interior design practice.

This course introduces the fundamental principles of building construction and their direct relevance to interior design. It covers basic construction methods, structural systems, and materials used in residential and small-scale commercial projects. Emphasis is placed on elements such as walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, and how they affect spatial planning and detailing. Through lectures and technical drawings, students develop technical literacy and an understanding of how construction knowledge informs functional and creative design solutions.

This studio course introduces students to residential interior design, focusing on the creation of functional, aesthetic, and sustainable living spaces. Students apply an integrated design process addressing user needs, space planning, furniture, lighting, and materials. Emphasis is placed on creative problem-solving and contextually responsive solutions. Projects are presented through conceptual plans, drawings, 3D models, and design documentation that demonstrate a comprehensive design development process.

This course enhances students’ digital design skills using Building Information Modeling (BIM) with Revit to produce professional 2D and 3D documentation. It focuses on creating integrated digital models that combine spatial planning, construction detailing, and material specifications while fostering collaboration and professional workflow simulation.

This course examines the theoretical foundations and critical frameworks that shape interior design practice. It explores historical, cultural, psychological, and aesthetic concepts influencing space, perception, and user experience. Students analyze major design movements and contemporary theories, developing the ability to integrate conceptual understanding into practical design decisions.

This course surveys the historical evolution of interior design from ancient civilizations to the modern era, analyzing how social, cultural, and aesthetic factors shaped interior spaces. It covers major design movements such as Renaissance, Baroque, Modernism, and Postmodernism, fostering an understanding of design heritage and its relevance to contemporary practice.

This course deepens students’ understanding of advanced construction systems in interior design, focusing on the integration of mechanical, electrical, and environmental systems. Topics include interior finishes, floor, wall, and ceiling systems, safety codes, and accessibility. It prepares students to produce precise construction details and design safe, cohesive interior environments.

This course introduces techniques, tools, and materials for creating scaled physical models in interior design. Emphasizing craftsmanship, precision, and spatial awareness, students construct conceptual and presentation models using materials such as foam board, cardboard, wood, acrylic, and 3D-printed elements. The course develops technical and creative skills in representing scale, proportion, and spatial detail.

This studio course introduces the principles and processes of commercial interior design, focusing on retail, office, restaurant, and hospitality environments. Students apply human-centered and brand-driven design strategies through spatial planning, material and lighting selection, and 3D visualization. Emphasis is placed on innovative, functional, and sustainable solutions that address client needs, codes, and contemporary design trends.

This course introduces the principles and techniques of digital presentation using professional design software. Students develop visual communication skills through presentation boards, conceptual diagrams, and digital layouts using tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Emphasis is placed on layout composition, graphic hierarchy, and aesthetic quality in alignment with industry standards for academic and professional presentations.

This course introduces the principles, methods, and technologies of furniture design and construction, emphasizing the relationship between form, material, ergonomics, and function. Students explore furniture types, joinery, material behavior, and fabrication processes through design exercises, technical drawings, and model-making. The course integrates manual and digital production methods, focusing on sustainability, craftsmanship, and innovation in contemporary furniture design.

This course introduces the fundamental characteristics and performance of interior finishing materials. It examines the physical, aesthetic, and environmental properties of wood, stone, ceramics, metals, glass, and paints concerning durability, sustainability, safety, and visual impact. Students learn criteria for material selection, installation methods, and spatial quality, enabling informed material choices that align with design and sustainability standards.

This course introduces key building systems—lighting, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and fire safety—and their integration into interior design for comfort, safety, and sustainability. It also covers service drawings, smart technologies, and energy-efficient strategies aligned with professional standards.

This advanced studio focuses on designing healthcare and educational interiors through user-centered and evidence-based approaches. It addresses spatial planning, accessibility, safety, and emotional well-being while meeting regulatory standards. Students develop integrated design proposals with conceptual narratives, technical drawings, and 3D visualizations that demonstrate creativity, empathy, and performance-driven solutions.

This course advances students’ digital visualization skills, integrating 2D and 3D workflows for high-quality renderings and professional presentation boards. Using tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, V-Ray, and Enscape, students create cohesive, photorealistic visuals and layouts that meet professional interior design standards.

This course deepens students’ understanding of sustainable interior finishing materials, focusing on life cycle assessment, environmental standards, and performance criteria. It explores recycled, renewable, and smart materials while emphasizing ethical and functional material selection that supports sustainability goals and design integrity.

This course covers the principles and applications of lighting and acoustics in interior environments, examining how light and sound affect spatial perception and user comfort. Students study lighting sources, design strategies, and acoustic control methods to integrate energy-efficient and well-performing solutions that enhance interior quality and support sustainable design.

This course provides students with hands-on experience through professional internship placements, allowing them to apply academic knowledge, gain industry insight, and build professional competence in interior design practice.

This course focuses on the design of multifunctional buildings, particularly hotels that integrate hospitality, commercial, and leisure functions. It addresses spatial programming, circulation, and user experience while incorporating lighting, acoustics, sustainability, and building systems. Students explore smart and wellness-oriented design trends and conclude with a comprehensive project demonstrating creativity and technical proficiency.

This preparatory course guides students in developing a comprehensive proposal for their final design project. It covers topic selection, case study analysis, user and site evaluation, and conceptual development. Emphasis is placed on research-based design decisions and critical analysis, culminating in a complete project brief and preliminary concept that form the foundation for the graduation project.

This course introduces the principles and standards for producing professional construction drawings in interior design. Students translate conceptual ideas into detailed technical documents—plans, elevations, sections, and joinery details—aligned with building codes and industry conventions. Emphasis is placed on precision, material specification, and communication of design intent through complete construction documentation.

This capstone course integrates students’ research, technical, and creative skills through a comprehensive real-world interior design project. It emphasizes spatial planning, detailing, sustainability, and user-centered design. Students produce a full professional package—including drawings, documentation, and presentations—evaluated through juried reviews demonstrating professional competence.

This course examines the relationship between interior design and the natural and built environment, focusing on creating sustainable and health-conscious spaces. It covers sustainable material selection, indoor air quality, lighting efficiency, and acoustic performance. Students apply environmentally responsible design strategies aligned with global green building standards to enhance well-being and sustainability in interior environments.

This course introduces the principles of interior landscape design, emphasizing the integration of natural elements into interior environments to enhance aesthetics, well-being, and sustainability. Topics include plant selection, lighting, irrigation, and maintenance, along with biophilic strategies and the design of green features such as living walls and indoor planters across residential, commercial, and hospitality settings.

This course introduces the principles and practices of construction management for interior design projects, emphasizing the link between design intent and execution. It covers project planning, budgeting, scheduling, and coordination among stakeholders, along with quality control, risk management, and use of industry-standard tools to ensure successful project delivery.

This course introduces the artistic principles of Arabic calligraphy and ornamentation and their application in interior design. It explores classical scripts such as Kufic, Naskh, and Thuluth, focusing on symmetry, rhythm, and proportion. Students apply traditional and digital techniques to integrate decorative and calligraphic elements into interior spaces, creating culturally inspired contemporary designs.

This course examines the historical evolution and regional diversity of interior architecture across Saudi Arabia, analyzing cultural, social, and environmental influences on spatial organization and decoration. It explores vernacular elements such as mashrabiyas, courtyards, and regional materials, encouraging students to reinterpret Saudi heritage through contemporary, culturally responsive design solutions.

This course introduces the fundamentals of architectural surveying, including measurement techniques, linear and angular data, and mapping applications. Students gain skills in field data collection, analysis, and documentation for architectural and heritage projects.

This course explores the psychological and social dimensions of interior design, analyzing how spatial environments influence perception, emotion, and human interaction. Topics include sensory experience, spatial behavior, personal space, and social engagement. Students apply environmental and social psychology principles to create interior spaces that enhance comfort, well-being, and community connection.

This course provides an interdisciplinary foundation linking philosophy, sociology, anthropology, ethics, and culture to interior design thinking. It examines how values and social systems shape human experience within built environments, emphasizing empathy, inclusivity, and ethical responsibility. Students develop awareness of design’s role in promoting well-being, cultural identity, and social engagement.

This course introduces the principles and techniques of digital photography applied to interior design documentation and presentation. Students learn camera operation, exposure control, lighting, and composition, along with digital editing. Emphasis is placed on visual storytelling and producing high-quality images that effectively communicate design intent and spatial qualities.

This course builds on environmental design foundations, focusing on sustainable practices within interior design. It addresses environmental, economic, and health impacts of design decisions through strategies for resource efficiency and improved indoor environmental quality. Topics include sustainable materials, energy systems, water conservation, and global frameworks such as LEED, WELL, and the Saudi Green Building Code.

This course prepares students for professional entry into the interior design field by developing their technical competencies and professional identity. It covers résumé and portfolio development, client communication, presentation techniques, and job interview preparation. Emphasis is placed on ethical conduct, teamwork, leadership, and familiarity with international professional standards in interior design practice.

This course builds upon Professional Development (1), emphasizing the practical application of professional skills in interior design practice. Students engage in project management, client relations, contract review, and professional regulations relevant to design practice. The course also focuses on the preparation and presentation of the final professional portfolio. It aims to enhance students’ professional readiness, ethical awareness, and decision-making abilities, equipping them for successful transition into the interior design industry.