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ֱ̽ › Programs › Program Overview >

Interior Design

  • OVERVIEW
  • CAREERS
  • COURSES
  • INSTRUCTORS

Learn how to create residential and commercial interior designs from scratch, using the latest software and digital tools. Express your creativity, develop the technical skills employers want, and get real work experience before you graduate.

What Does an Interior Designer Do?

Many people confuse interior design with interior decoration. An interior designer does much more than decorate a space. They actually design spaces from scratch, based on the client’s needs, budget, and style preferences.

This process includes:

  • Consulting with clients to develop a concept
  • Creating technical drawings and blueprints for the new space
  • Considering lighting, electrical systems, acoustics, and architectural details
  • Selecting materials and finishes
  • Selecting paint colours, furnishings, and accessories
  • Ensuring the space is safe and meets any special accessibility requirements
  • Overseeing builders to ensure designs are carried out correctly

ֱ̽ Interior Design Program

Herzing offers an accelerated Interior Design program that fully prepares you for work in just 18 months. Training focuses on practical, hands-on design projects, combined with real work experience.

  • 18-month diploma program
  • Hands-on training in AutoCAD and Adobe design software
  • 8-week internship
  • Multiple program start dates throughout the year
  • Financial assistance may be available for students who qualify
  • Career support to find your first interior design job

“Students really love the hands-on design projects, where it’s all about creativity. We do kitchens, bathrooms, homes, commercial spaces…each student discovers their own style and it’s really exciting.” (Matthew Salmaso, instructor)

What Skills Will You Learn in the Interior Design Program?

Herzing’s Interior Design program teaches you how to make safe, creative, and functional design,ܲԲthe latestAutoCAD design software.

In this program you will learn:

  • Adobe Photoshop for manipulating images, and creating interior design presentations
  • AutoCAD software for drafting professional interior designs and drawings
  • 3D application software (such as SketchUp) to create 3D design models
  • Principles of safe, functional space planning
  • Colour theory
  • How to select light fixtures and make a good lighting plan
  • How to select materials and finishes
  • How to select furnishings, textiles, and accessories
  • Special design techniques for kitchens and bathrooms
  • How to create complete residential and commercial designs from scratch
  • How to present and “sell” your design ideas to clients

Find out what to expect in class:

Career Outlook

Herzing graduates have a range of career options, including working at:

  • Interior design firms
  • Architectural firms
  • Retail establishments
  • Construction companies
  • Airlines
  • Hotels
  • Restaurant chains
  • Your own interior design company (self-employed)

Areas of specialty and job options include:

  • Kitchen design
  • Office space planner
  • Interior designer
  • Retail space planner
  • Interior design technician
  • Interior design project manager

Who Hires Our Interior Design Grads?

Graduates of our Interior Design program have been hired by:

  • Delta Furniture
  • Cuisine Royale
  • Le Chateau

See examples of typical tasks and get the truth behind some common misconceptions.

Study Topics

Study topics for the Interior Design program include interior design and decoration, colour theory, space planning, AutoCAD software, textiles and materials, furniture and accessories, lighting, and residential and commercial designs.

Click to see detailed course descriptions:

Interior Design & Decoration

029A To analyze the job functionBefore joining session A, the students will take this introductory course. Students will be subject to create reports & presentations using MS Office products such as Word & PowerPoint. They will be introduced to certain career paths, social and historical influence, professional tasks and responsibilities in a safe environment. They will research and examine the field of interior design & decoration. Students will be provided with product catalogs in both hardcopy & electronically. Fields trips may be arranged for visits to manufactures/suppliers, exhibitions & retail stores.

Interior Design Sketch Techniques and observational drawing

029D To produce sketches.This course teaches students how to communicate design ideas through visual media. It will include drawing media, freehand sketching, interior perspective, shade and shadow, color, design graphics, rendering, presentation formats, and exposure to digital imaging. Freehand sketches will then be scanned and imported into Photoshop for editing.

Digital Imaging for Interior Design & Decorating

00PG To process digital imagesAdobe PhotoShop is an industry-standard tool in graphics, animation, video, and new media production. Students learn how the program relates to the production of today’s interior design applications. Students develop basic image manipulation skills using Photoshop. Topics include the fundamentals of color management, scanning, photo retouching, imaging, special effects, and filters and masks. Skills acquires in Photoshop will be used to create presentation materials in the following courses.

Colour

029H To create a mood, using colour

This course will develop in the student a sense of the theories of colour: its properties, psychology, and impact within a designed interior. The elements of light, space, harmony, and assimilation as they pertain to the use of colour in design will be covered through lectures, in-class demonstrations and exercises. An understanding of the use of colour in interior spaces will translate to the students’ own colour application projects.

Space Planning

029C To develop ideas.029D To produce sketches.This course introduces fundamental concepts and methods for planning, organizing, and arranging spaces in the interior environment. Students examine space in terms of human needs, activities, and priorities and apply design processes to making the best functional and aesthetic use of space.

The course reinforces methods of graphic communication; to solve design problems through conceptualization, three-dimensional thinking and planning; and to teach the design elements and the functional requirements of various single-room spaces and axonometric drawing as a presentation technique. Topics include ergonomics, circulation, and dividing areas into functional zones when planning spaces.

CAD for Interior Designers & Decorators

029F To produce drawings using a computer-assisted drafting system.This course introduces basic computer-aided design and drafting skills and techniques within interior design applications. Emphasis is placed on the most common computer commands used in architectural drafting and design to draw, edit, manipulate layers, and create reusable drawings. Upon completion, students should be able to use specific computer applications to complete drawings and plot/print.

Textiles and Interior Materials

029J To suggest finishes and materials for a projectTextiles are probably the most utilized elements in interior design installations because of their variety of applications. Students will examine the technical and visual qualities of fabric: its manufacture, weave, texture, color, and versatility, and will learn how textiles are used as wall coverings, window treatments, upholstery, and accessories.This course also covers soft and hard materials for flooring, walls, ceilings, and furnishings, as well as equipment, millwork, and cabinetry. Photoshop will be used throughout this course.

Furniture and Accessories

To specify the furniture, accessories and equipment for a project. This course introduces students to the design process as it applies to furniture, addressing furniture ergonomics, materials, construction techniques, manufacturing, and design. Students will research selected topics, and design seating, work/service pieces, and cabinetry. Emphasis will be placed on furniture precedents, research, design process, human factors, accessibility, detailing, documentation, and presentation techniques.

3D Application Software for Interior Designers

029F To produce drawings using a computer-assisted drafting system. This is an introductory course of Trimble’s 3D software SketchUp. In this course, students will learn to use the software to create 3D models. These tools will then be used in the rest of the semester allowing students to create computer renderings and walkthroughs of rooms in residential or non-residential projects.

Architectural Drawing

029E To draw objects and spaces to scale029F To produce drawings using a computer-assisted drafting system.029L To use interior architectural and construction elements

The Architectural Drawing course will provide students with a broad knowledge about construction Building Codes of Quebec and Canada. The aim of this course is to familiarize the student with typical interior detailing for construction. The content will cover: detailing and standards of doors and windows, construction methods of straight and spiral stairs, custom cabinetry in kitchens or bathrooms, lighting plans, electrical legends, fixtures, specification of finishes and equipment. In addition, this course will familiarize students with fundamental theories of environmental systems and how they affect the interior design of residential and commercial spaces.

Kitchens and Bathrooms

029M To design custom elements. This course focuses on the fundamental concepts of residential kitchens and bath designs. Issues such as space planning, ergonomics, plumbing basics and storage solutions will be addressed. Students will become familiar with plumbing fixtures, appliances, cabinet options, and applications of materials and finishes. Professional practices such as specifications and documentation will be reviewed. Through projects and critiques of layouts, students learn to optimize kitchen and bathroom components and arrangements. 2D drafting and colour presentation techniques will be developed.

Lighting

029Q To create lighting concepts. This course introduces lighting design for interior environments. Students explore human visual perception, properties of natural and artificial light, lighting devices and controls, energy issues, and visual communication of lighting designs.Students will learn to analyze interior lighting installations, calculate lighting levels for interiors, select appropriate light fixtures, and prepare a lighting plan based on one of their studio projects.

Rendered Perspectives

029F To produce drawings using a computer-assisted drafting system. The Perspective & Rendering course is to instruct the student in methods of graphic black and white and color presentation, including perspective drawings and renderings as a means of visual communication. This course builds on the 3D Application software for Interior Designers course and emphasizes more advanced illustration techniques. Students will prepare detailed perspective renderings to help sell their design proposals. Material renditions and shade and shadow techniques will also be acquired. Students will also add overall project layout and presentation techniques using the Trimble software Layout.

Interior Design I

029L To use interior architectural and construction elements. This course includes principles of interior design for various residential design solutions. Emphasis is placed on visual presentation and selection of appropriate styles to meet specifications. Upon completion, students should be able to complete scaled floor plans, elevations, specifications, color schemes and fabrics, finishes and furniture selection.

Interior Design II

029L To use interior architectural and construction elements029. To plan a layout for a commercial, industrial or public building.This course introduces commercial/contract design including retail, office, institutional, restaurant, and hospitality design. Emphasis is placed on ADA requirements, building codes and standards, space planning, and selection of appropriate materials for non-residential interiors. Upon completion, students should be able to analyze and design introductory non-residential projects using graphic presentation concepts.

Internship

029G To interact with clients, resource-persons and colleagues Afterward, students will apply the knowledge and skills acquired in school during their internship. Internships are 8 weeks in duration and take place within the industry. Students will reinforce design concepts learned in school; learn new technologies, learn time management, build a professional and positive attitude, learn to work independently as well as in a team and build rapport with colleagues and customers. Students will be expected to document their work and submit it for evaluation.

Project I – Residential Interior Perspectives and Renders

029N To create an interior design concept for a residence.029P To present a design project students will work on a 3D project in residential interior design. Students will be asked to work with a mandate provided by the instructor. The focus will be on space layouts of a space, furniture arrangements, accessories, materials, lighting, rendered perspectives and walkthroughs. This project will be part of the student portfolio.

Project II Commercial Interior Perspectives and Renders

029U To create an interior design concept for a commercial, industrial or public building029P To present a design project Students will work on a 3D project in Commercial interior design. Students will focus on space layouts of a space, furniture arrangements, accessories, materials, lighting, rendered perspectives and walkthrough for a commercial building. This project will be part of the student portfolio.

Instructors

Laura Garner
Instructor, Interior Design

I am an experienced interior designer, McGill art history graduate, and dedicated professional with a demonstrated history of success in the design industry. Having earned my interior design diploma from ֱ̽, I bring a unique blend of artistic insight and technical proficiency to the field. My journey has taken me through various roles in residential, office, commercial, retail, and hospitality design, and has led to my attainment of residential and commercial real estate broker licences, further enriching my expertise.

I currently specialize in hotel investment and design, leveraging my skills in design and sales and proficiency in software and technology to create immersive and functional spaces. As an interior design instructor, I am excited to share my extensive knowledge and practical insights with students at ֱ̽. Join me on this creative journey as we explore the art and science of interior design together.

Matthew Salmaso
Instructor, Interior Design

I am a graduate of the Interior Design program offered at Dawson College. Working in this industry requires a combination of creativity and technical capabilities so we can see our client’s dreams made real. Being an interior designer can be satisfying as it allows you to see something built from the early stages of your concept creation to the completed project. This can also be an interesting field to work in, as it offers a wide range of possible outlets to explore your design capabilities, whether working in an interior design firm, designing custom furniture, renovating a home, or working as a design consultant for various kinds of companies.

Marie Halchuk
Instructor, Interior Design

Marie has over 11 years of comprehensive experience in the fields of education and design. She taught in the Graphic Design program at ֱ̽ for seven years before taking on the role of Program Cooridinator of the Interior Design department. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design from Concordia University. As a believer in lifelong learning and a bit of a tech enthusiast, she is currently pursuing a master’s degree in educational technology. Marie is passionate about learning and design and enjoys watching creativity and potential unfold in our learners.

Catalina Vergara
Instructor, Interior Design

I’m a passionate and creative architect/designer with eight years of experience in the interior design field. I’m enthusiastic about details and helping others find a functional yet artistic way to accomplish their needs for their space. I have lots of experience working hand-in-hand with clients in both residential and commercial projects. Outgoing, ready for teamwork, and looking to make an impact by collaborating with co-workers, I am calm and focused, which allows me to manage complicated situations with ease. Currently working as teacher assistant in the Interior Design department at ֱ̽, I am fascinated with helping students grow in the field.

Miguel Flores
Instructor, Interior Design

My journey began in 2005 when I embarked on my career in a millwork shop, meticulously crafting detailed plans for both residential and retail projects. As I learned the tricks of the trade, I transitioned to a pivotal role as a Drafting Coordinator with a major Canadian retailer. Here, I played a key role in providing comprehensive construction plans. Subsequently, my career path led me to a rewarding government position, where I focused on space planning and renovations within Montreal hospitals.

Over the course of nearly two decades, I found myself consistently in the position of being the go-to person whenever assistance was required. Little did I realize how much fulfillment helping others would bring me. That’s when a former colleague of mine reached out and asked if I’d be interested in teaching at Herzing. I was excited for this new adventure. Whether guiding students with their questions, being approachable, or embracing the challenge of finding solutions, I have always found satisfaction in offering support. Being fluent in English, French, and Spanish allows me to assist students from diverse backgrounds. In my leisure time, I cherish moments spent with family, indulge in sports, have a passion for movies, and enjoy attending concerts.

Admission Requirements

What you need to get started.

  • Minimum of a Canadian high school grade 12 or equivalent, or a mature student
  • Pass an entrance test administered by ֱ̽
  • Be interviewed in detail regarding interest in the field
  • Note: admission to some programs may include additional requirements
Get Started Today

Not all programs and learning formats available at all campus locations.

The Interior Design program (NTA.1K) A.C.S. is registered at and delivered by ֱ̽ Montreal. This program leads to an Attestation of Collegial Studies (ACS) recognized by the Ministère de l’Éducation (MEQ).

ֱ̽ Montreal is a post-secondary institution recognized by the Ministry of Education and Higher Learning (permit number 749758) and a secondary vocational studies institution (permit number 534501).

Overview

Industry
Design
Program Length 18 months, includes 8-week internship
Learning Format Online
Language English and French

EXPLORE CAREERS

TRY OUR CAREER EXPLORATION KIT

Our online quiz takes three minutes to complete and you’ll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.

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Your Next Steps

Ready to learn more about the Interior Design diploma program? It’s easy to get started. Choose from the following options:

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2024 Overall Graduate Employment Rate

84% of available ֱ̽ graduates were employed in a related field.

*statistics based on most recent available

Why Choose This Program?

  • Accelerated 18-month program gets you to work faster
  • Learn the practical design skills employers want
  • Get real work experience with an intensive 8-week internship
  • Learn from expert instructors with years of professional interior design experience
  • Study in small classes where every student gets step-by-step support
  • Do a wide range of design projects using AutoCAD and Adobe
  • Develop a portfolio to showcase your skills
  • Enjoy the Herzing Open Education Program (HOEP), which lets you take additional courses after you graduate, tuition-free!
  • We have an amazing career development team that can help you create your resume, prepare for interviews, and apply for interior design jobs
  • Herzing has a 60-year track record of successful career training
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RELATED DESIGN PROGRAMS:

  • 2D Animation
  • 3D Animation
  • Building Design Technician
  • Computer Graphic Design
  • Computer-Aided Design and Drafting
  • Industrial Drafting
  • Interior Decoration and Visual Display
  • Storyboard Artist
  • Sustainable Architecture


BRENDA H. WINNIPEG

Very friendly staff, provide all information and are very eager and willing to help you in the process. I would definitely recommend Herzing to anyone interested in returning to school to further their education.

PARASKEVI S. MONTREAL

ֱ̽ gave me the education I needed to get a great job in the aerospace industry. Classes were interesting, pertinent and fun! Not only does this school help you find an internship, they help you find the right job, and continue to maintain relationships with alumni in the future. Great experience at Herzing!

JENNA D. WINNIPEG

As a single mom going back to school was intimidating but at ֱ̽ I actually feel that I can reach my career goal!

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Campus Locations

Multiple locations, one collaborative environment.

Visit one of our convenient campus locations in: Winnipeg, MB, Cambridge, ON, Toronto, ON, Ottawa, ON, Montreal, QC. Admissions, career development, and educational funding staff are available at each location to meet with students and answer any questions and assist with application processes.

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EXPLORE CAREERS

TRY OUR CAREER EXPLORATION KIT

Our online quiz takes three minutes to complete and you’ll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you’re best suited for.

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Coming From Abroad?

Attend ֱ̽ as an international student

We welcome students from all over the globe. At Herzing, you can join a vibrant community of diverse learners and build the skills you need to thrive in the Canadian job market.

 

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