I've always wanted to study design but I thought I would have to quit my present job to go to university, something I could not afford. Thanks to this course I can study at home and still have the career I've always wanted. Learning has never been so great!

—Norma Binette

Course Outline

Our IDDP® interior decorating and design course provides you with professional and comprehensive training. It is designed to give you the professional skills and business knowledge you need to succeed in this exciting and highly-rewarding field. Here is a glimpse into your course:

Unit A

• The World of Design and Decorating: An introduction to the exciting field of design and decorating.
• Focal Points, Color, and Room Styles: Focal points—learn how to evaluate a space and feature its best elements. Color basics—the color wheel and basic color schemes. Room Styles—learn how to identify different styles and create a distinct look for the space you're decorating.
• Painting with Watercolors: Enhance your drawings and floorplans with a wash of color.
• Working with Color: Advanced color theory—color psychology and applying color schemes.
• Starting Your Own Business: Your complete guide to planning and setting up your own interior design business.

Unit B

• Basic Design Materials: Using wood, stone, and concrete in your designs.
• Modern Design Materials: Specialty materials and finishes, including glass and metal.
• Understanding Floorplans: Learn how to draw floorplans and accurate scale drawings.
• Classic Design Styles: Learn how to identify classic design periods and their furnishings.
• Marketing and Promotion: An in-depth look at different ways to promote your business.
• Supplementary Booklet: A useful quick-reference guide with information on basic floorplan notation.

Unit C

• Space Planning: Learn about balance, visual weight, and scale.
• Furniture Selection and Placement: Harmonizing the style, function, and placement of furniture.
• Designing with Textiles: Selecting and coordinating the perfect textiles for a room.
• Wall Treatments: Learn about painting, papering, and specialty wall finishes.
• Early American and International Styles: Explore exciting design styles from around the world.
• Working with Clients: Present yourself and your work in a professional manner.

Unit D

• Lighting: Learn about fixtures, bulbs, and lighting functions.
• Window Treatments: Compare treatments and learn to dress windows with flair.
• Accessorizing: Select and coordinate accessories for that special final touch.
• 20th Century Design Styles: Learn about the major design styles of the past century.
• Building Your Portfolio: Create a professional portfolio of your work and skills.
• The Professional Designer: Explore consultations, proposals, invoicing, and discounts.

Unit E

• Designing Bedrooms: Develop ideas for the private spaces of the home.
• Designing Kitchens: Blend function and style to cook up the perfect design.
• Designing Bathrooms: Give style and personality to these personal retreats.
• Contemporary Styles Guide: Contemporary styles—chic, modern, and comfortable designs.
• Interior Design Presentation Techniques: Advanced floorplan notations and presenting plans to clients.

Unit F

• Final Project: Use your skills to create and present a custom-designed space.

Bonus

• New Green Design Handbook*: Learn how to use Earth-friendly materials to create beautiful and environmentally friendly interiors.

*Students receive Green Design handbook upon full payment of course fees.