Undergraduate Courses
FURN 120 Survey of Furniture Design
This course gives the students an understanding of specific design proponents, movements and historical trajectories relevant to furniture design, in a manner that informs and complements their design process. The course draws upon the historical lineage and identifies the predominant civilizations throughout history and the contribution they have made to furniture design. This course seeks to trace the dominant furniture paradigms and historical shifts that have occurred from prehistory up to the 21st century. Specific emphasis is placed on theoretical and ideological developments surrounding the age or era in which such developments occurred, and study is focused on the effects of such historical events, shifts and consequences. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 123.
FURN 200 Materials and Techniques I
This course focuses on the integration of design and fabrication skills necessary to complete an original project. The course covers the properties and working characteristics of hand tool use, joinery techniques and safe machine operations in the use of materials appropriate to furniture design. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 201 Design Studio: Introduction to Furniture
This course introduces students to the field of furniture design. Through lectures, class discussions and exercises, students develop and apply creative problem-solving skills as well as formulate, communicate, and present a sound basis for their ideas. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 232 Drawing and Presentation for Furniture Design
In this course students are expected to develop the drawing skills and 2-D presentation techniques used to convey design ideas required in the furniture design profession. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102 or DRAW 230.
FURN 236 Materials and Techniques II
In this course, students synthesize their design and fabrication skills. The course explores the conceptual, aesthetic, and structural issues involved with the design and construction of a project utilizing a range of techniques and commonly used furniture materials. Prerequisite(s): FURN 200, FURN 232.
FURN 238 Design Studio: Furniture and Spatial Composition
Understanding the composition and quality of spaces in which humans work, interact, play, live and utilize their furniture is the basis of this course. Lectures, exercises and case studies provide students an appreciation of the complexities and nuances of the built environment towards a more meaningful and responsible furniture design process. Prerequisite(s): FURN 201, FURN 232.
FURN 241 Design Studio: Applied Universal Design
Through lectures, readings, discussions and exercises, students explore universal design as an integrated process. Students examine the sphere of human activity and its impact on design. The synthesis of contextual research, user needs, technical and functional requirements in the design development is stressed. Students develop and execute design solutions based on the fundamental principles of universal design. Prerequisite(s): FURN 120, FURN 201.
FURN 270 Electronic Design and Visualization
This course is an opportunity to gain essential skills for design communication through 2-D drawing and 3-D modeling. Students will produce presentation documents and presentations that clearly communicate the formal and technical aspects of a design form. The course will focus on a fluid process of digital modeling and technical drawing. Prerequisite(s): FURN 232 or IDUS 213.
FURN 301 Furniture Practices: Metal
This course explores the material and fabrication properties of metals. Metal manipulation, machine safety, and proper use of hand tools, metal identification and cold assembly techniques are discussed. Students design and fabricate projects integrating the information and techniques covered. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 302 Materials and Processes
Through lectures, studio assignments and research, students explore traditional and contemporary materials and manufacturing methods unique to the furnishings industry as well as those common in other fields. Students are introduced to the technical and practical considerations that influence the choices of material and production. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between the designer and manufacturer. Prerequisite(s): FURN 201.
FURN 303 Furniture Design Merchandising Principles
Through a series of lectures and seminars, this course enables students to identify, challenge and explore new concepts and design competencies within the parameters of markets and opportunities. The course will also address trends and forecasting, patterns of domestic competition, practices in international import and export, packaging, and transport of products. Students will be exposed to case studies covering customer buying systems and hierarchies of needs, behavioral tendencies, cultural diversities, price determinants and market cost factors. Prerequisite(s): FIBR 201 or FURN 201 or IDUS 250 or INDS 210 or MTJW 255.
FURN 304 Design Studio: Solutions for Storage and Organization
Through directed assignments or a project, students will explore their creativity to develop design solutions that pertain to storage and organization. An emphasis will be placed on original concepts and solutions and the importance of effective design communication. Prerequisite(s): FURN 236 or FURN 238, FURN 241.
FURN 305 Design Studio: Furniture Design for the Market
The complex process of furniture design for the market is examined and explored, addressing issues of function, structure, aesthetics, context, and culture. The use of 2-D and 3-D visualization tools is instrumental as students develop and resolve their design solutions. Prerequisite(s): FURN 236 or FURN 238, FURN 241.
FURN 306 Furniture Practices: Methods in Plastics
This course is an introduction to plastics as a material for design and manufacture. Through lectures, demonstrations, and small-scale exercises and projects, students become familiar with the vocabulary of plastics and plastics design. The course covers basic design principles, issues in plastics, design protocols, key manufacturing processes and fabrication techniques specific to designing for plastics. Prerequisite(s): ACCE 205 or FIBR 101 or FURN 200 or IDUS 212 or MTJW 102.
FURN 308 Design Studio: Electronic Furniture Design
Through this course, students become proficient in industry-standard modeling software applications, and how they allow for quick, accurate and transformable visualization of designs to provide a tool to facilitate communication between designer, engineer and client. Prerequisite(s): DRAW 115 or FURN 232 or IDUS 213.
FURN 320 Accessories for Living
This course explores design, construction and packaging issues associated with the production of accessories for the living environment. Students design, develop and fabricate a product with a focus on efficient production strategies and appropriate integration of assembly processes, including the potential use of various rapid prototyping technologies. Prerequisite(s): FURN 302.
FURN 323 Prototype Fabrication
Students practice the appropriate fabrication techniques necessary to complete a previously designed original project. The course covers the properties and working characteristics of materials appropriate to the projects and emphasizes hand tool use, joinery techniques and safe machine operations. Prerequisite(s): FURN 200.
FURN 324 Visual Presentation
This course focuses on advanced presentation techniques using creative problem solving, concept building, visualization and research. Through lectures, discussions and exercises, students develop, document and present design professional quality project materials that broaden their portfolios. Prerequisite(s): FURN 232.
FURN 330 Exploration in Soft Furnishings
Through a series of lectures, demonstrations, assignments and projects, students will gain knowledge and experience with the materials, equipment and techniques involved in the production of soft furnishings for a variety of functional and aesthetic purposes. The students will be exposed to sewing technology, patternmaking, structural design, and upholstery techniques that will provide the parameters for students to conceptualize, explore, design and produce a full scale prototype. Prerequisite(s): FURN 200.
FURN 331 Hot Metal Forming
This course explores the history, modern manufacturing significance, and practical application of hot metal fabrication techniques. Through discussion of the evolution of metals as used in human society, as well as hands-on experience with forging and forming techniques, gives students a broad understanding of the role of metal in society and design. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 333 Furniture Practices: Welding
This course introduces the theory and technique required to perform welding and joining operations on various common metal alloys. Students are expected to develop a working knowledge of specific alloys and their relevance to furniture design and manufacturing industry standards. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 335 Design Studio: Creative Furnishings Development
Through semi-open ended assignments, students will explore and develop creative solutions to functional and aesthetic design problems in furnishings. Students will identify, refine and communicate the conceptual underpinnings of their projects as expressed in the discipline of furniture design. Emphasis will be placed on original concepts, identifying personal aesthetic, providing solutions and the importance of effective self-direction. Prerequisite(s): FURN 236 or FURN 238, FURN 241.
FURN 360 Professional Practices in Furniture Design
This course prepares students to enter the career field of furniture design. Topics include developing professional contacts, interviewing skills, portfolios and refined résumés. Prerequisite(s): FURN 303 or FURN 305, FURN 308.
FURN 370 Site-specific Furniture Design
Through a series of studio work, lectures, demonstrations, assignments and field trips, students will examine the role of furniture within the context of its surroundings, its intended function, and its relationship to the environment. Students will then apply that knowledge, along with appropriate tools and technology, to develop and implement site-specific furniture. Prerequisite(s): ARCH 301 or FURN 201 or IDUS 250 or INDS 210.
FURN 410 Design Studio: Advanced Furniture Design
While applying their accumulated experience, knowledge and skills in a directed design project, students demonstrate their command of the design process, process documentation, and presentation of a design project. Prerequisite(s): FURN 305, FURN 360.
FURN 425 Design Studio: Senior Studio
This course provides the student the opportunity to propose and manage a faculty approved self-initiated design project with appropriate focus, inquiry, documentation, execution and presentation. Prerequisite(s): FURN 410.
FURN 430 Prototype Methods and Material
Students in this course integrate advanced fabrication techniques and a broad range of materials during the execution of a previously designed original project. Emphasis is placed on the development of high-level craftsmanship. Prerequisite(s): FURN 200, FURN 236.
FURN 440 Advanced Metal Prototyping
This course is an opportunity for students to expand and apply skills learned in introductory metal-related courses. Using machining and welding skills, students develop and fabricate a fully functional and finely crafted furniture prototype. The course focuses on efficient engineering construction decisions, precise and appropriate fabrication methods, and the production of professional quality metal furniture prototypes. Prerequisite(s): FURN 301, FURN 333.
FURN 499 Special Topics in Furniture Design
The topic of this course varies from quarter to quarter. Each seminar focuses on various issues in the field of furniture design and allows students to pursue individual projects related to the subject of the course. Prerequisite(s): Vary according to topic.
This course gives the students an understanding of specific design proponents, movements and historical trajectories relevant to furniture design, in a manner that informs and complements their design process. The course draws upon the historical lineage and identifies the predominant civilizations throughout history and the contribution they have made to furniture design. This course seeks to trace the dominant furniture paradigms and historical shifts that have occurred from prehistory up to the 21st century. Specific emphasis is placed on theoretical and ideological developments surrounding the age or era in which such developments occurred, and study is focused on the effects of such historical events, shifts and consequences. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 123.
FURN 200 Materials and Techniques I
This course focuses on the integration of design and fabrication skills necessary to complete an original project. The course covers the properties and working characteristics of hand tool use, joinery techniques and safe machine operations in the use of materials appropriate to furniture design. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 201 Design Studio: Introduction to Furniture
This course introduces students to the field of furniture design. Through lectures, class discussions and exercises, students develop and apply creative problem-solving skills as well as formulate, communicate, and present a sound basis for their ideas. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 232 Drawing and Presentation for Furniture Design
In this course students are expected to develop the drawing skills and 2-D presentation techniques used to convey design ideas required in the furniture design profession. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102 or DRAW 230.
FURN 236 Materials and Techniques II
In this course, students synthesize their design and fabrication skills. The course explores the conceptual, aesthetic, and structural issues involved with the design and construction of a project utilizing a range of techniques and commonly used furniture materials. Prerequisite(s): FURN 200, FURN 232.
FURN 238 Design Studio: Furniture and Spatial Composition
Understanding the composition and quality of spaces in which humans work, interact, play, live and utilize their furniture is the basis of this course. Lectures, exercises and case studies provide students an appreciation of the complexities and nuances of the built environment towards a more meaningful and responsible furniture design process. Prerequisite(s): FURN 201, FURN 232.
FURN 241 Design Studio: Applied Universal Design
Through lectures, readings, discussions and exercises, students explore universal design as an integrated process. Students examine the sphere of human activity and its impact on design. The synthesis of contextual research, user needs, technical and functional requirements in the design development is stressed. Students develop and execute design solutions based on the fundamental principles of universal design. Prerequisite(s): FURN 120, FURN 201.
FURN 270 Electronic Design and Visualization
This course is an opportunity to gain essential skills for design communication through 2-D drawing and 3-D modeling. Students will produce presentation documents and presentations that clearly communicate the formal and technical aspects of a design form. The course will focus on a fluid process of digital modeling and technical drawing. Prerequisite(s): FURN 232 or IDUS 213.
FURN 301 Furniture Practices: Metal
This course explores the material and fabrication properties of metals. Metal manipulation, machine safety, and proper use of hand tools, metal identification and cold assembly techniques are discussed. Students design and fabricate projects integrating the information and techniques covered. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 302 Materials and Processes
Through lectures, studio assignments and research, students explore traditional and contemporary materials and manufacturing methods unique to the furnishings industry as well as those common in other fields. Students are introduced to the technical and practical considerations that influence the choices of material and production. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between the designer and manufacturer. Prerequisite(s): FURN 201.
FURN 303 Furniture Design Merchandising Principles
Through a series of lectures and seminars, this course enables students to identify, challenge and explore new concepts and design competencies within the parameters of markets and opportunities. The course will also address trends and forecasting, patterns of domestic competition, practices in international import and export, packaging, and transport of products. Students will be exposed to case studies covering customer buying systems and hierarchies of needs, behavioral tendencies, cultural diversities, price determinants and market cost factors. Prerequisite(s): FIBR 201 or FURN 201 or IDUS 250 or INDS 210 or MTJW 255.
FURN 304 Design Studio: Solutions for Storage and Organization
Through directed assignments or a project, students will explore their creativity to develop design solutions that pertain to storage and organization. An emphasis will be placed on original concepts and solutions and the importance of effective design communication. Prerequisite(s): FURN 236 or FURN 238, FURN 241.
FURN 305 Design Studio: Furniture Design for the Market
The complex process of furniture design for the market is examined and explored, addressing issues of function, structure, aesthetics, context, and culture. The use of 2-D and 3-D visualization tools is instrumental as students develop and resolve their design solutions. Prerequisite(s): FURN 236 or FURN 238, FURN 241.
FURN 306 Furniture Practices: Methods in Plastics
This course is an introduction to plastics as a material for design and manufacture. Through lectures, demonstrations, and small-scale exercises and projects, students become familiar with the vocabulary of plastics and plastics design. The course covers basic design principles, issues in plastics, design protocols, key manufacturing processes and fabrication techniques specific to designing for plastics. Prerequisite(s): ACCE 205 or FIBR 101 or FURN 200 or IDUS 212 or MTJW 102.
FURN 308 Design Studio: Electronic Furniture Design
Through this course, students become proficient in industry-standard modeling software applications, and how they allow for quick, accurate and transformable visualization of designs to provide a tool to facilitate communication between designer, engineer and client. Prerequisite(s): DRAW 115 or FURN 232 or IDUS 213.
FURN 320 Accessories for Living
This course explores design, construction and packaging issues associated with the production of accessories for the living environment. Students design, develop and fabricate a product with a focus on efficient production strategies and appropriate integration of assembly processes, including the potential use of various rapid prototyping technologies. Prerequisite(s): FURN 302.
FURN 323 Prototype Fabrication
Students practice the appropriate fabrication techniques necessary to complete a previously designed original project. The course covers the properties and working characteristics of materials appropriate to the projects and emphasizes hand tool use, joinery techniques and safe machine operations. Prerequisite(s): FURN 200.
FURN 324 Visual Presentation
This course focuses on advanced presentation techniques using creative problem solving, concept building, visualization and research. Through lectures, discussions and exercises, students develop, document and present design professional quality project materials that broaden their portfolios. Prerequisite(s): FURN 232.
FURN 330 Exploration in Soft Furnishings
Through a series of lectures, demonstrations, assignments and projects, students will gain knowledge and experience with the materials, equipment and techniques involved in the production of soft furnishings for a variety of functional and aesthetic purposes. The students will be exposed to sewing technology, patternmaking, structural design, and upholstery techniques that will provide the parameters for students to conceptualize, explore, design and produce a full scale prototype. Prerequisite(s): FURN 200.
FURN 331 Hot Metal Forming
This course explores the history, modern manufacturing significance, and practical application of hot metal fabrication techniques. Through discussion of the evolution of metals as used in human society, as well as hands-on experience with forging and forming techniques, gives students a broad understanding of the role of metal in society and design. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 333 Furniture Practices: Welding
This course introduces the theory and technique required to perform welding and joining operations on various common metal alloys. Students are expected to develop a working knowledge of specific alloys and their relevance to furniture design and manufacturing industry standards. Prerequisite(s): DSGN 102.
FURN 335 Design Studio: Creative Furnishings Development
Through semi-open ended assignments, students will explore and develop creative solutions to functional and aesthetic design problems in furnishings. Students will identify, refine and communicate the conceptual underpinnings of their projects as expressed in the discipline of furniture design. Emphasis will be placed on original concepts, identifying personal aesthetic, providing solutions and the importance of effective self-direction. Prerequisite(s): FURN 236 or FURN 238, FURN 241.
FURN 360 Professional Practices in Furniture Design
This course prepares students to enter the career field of furniture design. Topics include developing professional contacts, interviewing skills, portfolios and refined résumés. Prerequisite(s): FURN 303 or FURN 305, FURN 308.
FURN 370 Site-specific Furniture Design
Through a series of studio work, lectures, demonstrations, assignments and field trips, students will examine the role of furniture within the context of its surroundings, its intended function, and its relationship to the environment. Students will then apply that knowledge, along with appropriate tools and technology, to develop and implement site-specific furniture. Prerequisite(s): ARCH 301 or FURN 201 or IDUS 250 or INDS 210.
FURN 410 Design Studio: Advanced Furniture Design
While applying their accumulated experience, knowledge and skills in a directed design project, students demonstrate their command of the design process, process documentation, and presentation of a design project. Prerequisite(s): FURN 305, FURN 360.
FURN 425 Design Studio: Senior Studio
This course provides the student the opportunity to propose and manage a faculty approved self-initiated design project with appropriate focus, inquiry, documentation, execution and presentation. Prerequisite(s): FURN 410.
FURN 430 Prototype Methods and Material
Students in this course integrate advanced fabrication techniques and a broad range of materials during the execution of a previously designed original project. Emphasis is placed on the development of high-level craftsmanship. Prerequisite(s): FURN 200, FURN 236.
FURN 440 Advanced Metal Prototyping
This course is an opportunity for students to expand and apply skills learned in introductory metal-related courses. Using machining and welding skills, students develop and fabricate a fully functional and finely crafted furniture prototype. The course focuses on efficient engineering construction decisions, precise and appropriate fabrication methods, and the production of professional quality metal furniture prototypes. Prerequisite(s): FURN 301, FURN 333.
FURN 499 Special Topics in Furniture Design
The topic of this course varies from quarter to quarter. Each seminar focuses on various issues in the field of furniture design and allows students to pursue individual projects related to the subject of the course. Prerequisite(s): Vary according to topic.
Graduate Courses
FURN 706 Exploration in Plastics
Plastics and plastics processes will be covered in the context of a wide range of applications and within a variety of industries. Through lectures, case studies, demonstrations, and small-scale exercises and projects, students become familiar with the vocabulary of plastics and plastics design. Criteria for the design of plastic components and identification of processing methods will be discussed and applied.
FURN 708 3-D Computer-aided Design for Furniture
Through this course, students become proficient in industry-standard modeling software applications, and how they allow for quick, accurate, and transformable visualization of designs as a tool to facilitate communication between designer, engineer, and client.
FURN 709 Materials, Processes and Application
A broad familiarity of furniture and accessory materials, processes and application is important for the designer. Materials and manufacturing methods unique to the furnishings industry as well as those common in other fields are covered in this course. Students learn and apply technical and practical considerations influencing the choice of material and production methods for furnishings. The role and influence of the designer is examined in the context of manufactured products.
FURN 710 Issues in Furniture Design
Through a series of lectures and discussions, students establish systematic methods of concept development and market analysis. The understanding and use of these tools as they relate to current issues and trends in furniture design become the framework in which, as professional designers, students can successfully develop design briefs and tackle industry problems.
FURN 718 Furniture Studio I: Conceptual Studies
Through a series of proposals and design briefs, students exercise their conceptual skills in solving complex, open-ended design problems that challenge their imaginative capabilities. By developing an awareness of the higher-order of cognitive processes and connecting to their individual creative spark, students are encouraged to enhance their potential to substantially contribute to the field of Furniture Design.
FURN 732 Evolution of Furniture Design
Presented in a manner that informs and complements their design intentions, innovative interventions, and creative intelligence, this course provides students an understanding of major design proponents, movements and historical trajectories relevant to furniture design. The course draws upon the historical lineage of furniture design and identifies the predominant breakthroughs, materials and techniques throughout history, with specific emphasis on theoretical and ideological developments and the effects of such historical events.
FURN 738 Furniture Studio II: Contextual Studies
The focus of this course is to identify and respond to design problems through an investigation of either a predetermined or a proposed context. Students develop comprehensive documentation of sources, analysis, and synthesis that supports the intended design solution and demonstrate an understanding of material, functional and aesthetic requirements in the execution of the course project. Prerequisite(s): FURN 718.
FURN 742 Directed Research in Furniture Design
As the result of extensive research, students demonstrate the ability to pursue an inclusive concept development process, including the core components of research methodology, analysis, and material integration. The process culminates in a written statement for presentation to the M.F.A. 45-hour review and a narrative draft to accompany a body of work. Prerequisite(s): FURN 738.
FURN 748 Furniture Studio III: Material Investigations
The focus of this course is to conduct research on new information and develop new usage of emerging materials. The information gleaned from research is used in the presentation and execution of a viable design solution. Prerequisite(s): FURN 738.
FURN 749 Furniture Design M.A. Final Project
All M.A. students in furniture design are required to complete a final portfolio project that represents the culmination of their academic program. Prerequisite(s): FURN 738.
FURN 754 Directed Studies I
Application of learned research methodologies and demonstration of in-depth knowledge on furniture design form the basis for this course. The student plans and undertakes the first phase of the intended body of work for their graduate project leading to fully realized forms and the accompanying support documentation. Prerequisite(s): FURN 742.
FURN 760 Experimental Metal Fabrication
This course teaches advanced procedures in the exploration of metal manipulation, machine safety and fabrication. Proper use of hand tools, metal identification and cold assembly techniques are addressed.
FURN 762 Experimental Wood Fabrication
This course is an intensive learning exploration centered on woodworking techniques where the ideation process and fabrication method examines the intrinsic properties of wood and the challenges extended by the variety of wood-working tools and machines. Students enrolled in the program also develop research and critical thinking skills, learn the effective use of visual and verbal presentation medium, and understand the integration of concept, human dimension requirements, technical considerations and necessary safety procedures in fabrication.
FURN 764 Directed Studies II
Evaluation, refinement and focus of the topic investigation provide opportunities for the student to build on the first phase of the graduate thesis project. Deeper analysis, investigation and understanding is reflected in the execution, presentation and documentation of the second phase of the graduate project and exhibit planning. Prerequisite(s): FURN 754.
FURN 767 Furniture Design Merchandising
Through a series of lectures and seminars, this course enables students to identify, challenge and explore new concepts and design competencies within the parameters of markets and opportunities. The course also addresses trends and forecasting, patterns of domestic competition, practices in international import and export, packaging and transport of products. Students are exposed to case studies covering customer buying systems and hierarchies of needs, behavioral tendencies and cultural diversities, price determinants and market cost factors.
FURN 769 Soft Furnishings
Students acquire knowledge of sewing technology, patternmaking, structural design, and upholstery techniques, and conceptualize, develop, design and execute a soft furnishing ensemble constructed from available and alternative materials applicable to varied aesthetic and functional purpose.
FURN 770 Professional Practices in Furniture Design
In this course, students prepare to enter their career field. Topics include developing professional contacts, interviewing skills, portfolio and refined résumés. Graduate students develop a comprehensive package to prepare for employment, based on improved skill sets and capabilities. In-class learning is augmented by visiting furniture manufacture and design facilities in the area.
FURN 779F Graduate Field Internship
Students in this course undertake a field assignment under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite(s): 15 graduate credit hours, good academic standing.
FURN 779T Graduate Teaching Internship
Students in this course undertake a teaching assignment under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite(s): 15 graduate credit hours, good academic standing.
FURN 790 Furniture Design M.F.A. Thesis
All furniture design M.F.A. students are required to develop and prepare an exhibition of an original, cohesive body of work. Students must showcase four to six pieces supported by a written component.
Plastics and plastics processes will be covered in the context of a wide range of applications and within a variety of industries. Through lectures, case studies, demonstrations, and small-scale exercises and projects, students become familiar with the vocabulary of plastics and plastics design. Criteria for the design of plastic components and identification of processing methods will be discussed and applied.
FURN 708 3-D Computer-aided Design for Furniture
Through this course, students become proficient in industry-standard modeling software applications, and how they allow for quick, accurate, and transformable visualization of designs as a tool to facilitate communication between designer, engineer, and client.
FURN 709 Materials, Processes and Application
A broad familiarity of furniture and accessory materials, processes and application is important for the designer. Materials and manufacturing methods unique to the furnishings industry as well as those common in other fields are covered in this course. Students learn and apply technical and practical considerations influencing the choice of material and production methods for furnishings. The role and influence of the designer is examined in the context of manufactured products.
FURN 710 Issues in Furniture Design
Through a series of lectures and discussions, students establish systematic methods of concept development and market analysis. The understanding and use of these tools as they relate to current issues and trends in furniture design become the framework in which, as professional designers, students can successfully develop design briefs and tackle industry problems.
FURN 718 Furniture Studio I: Conceptual Studies
Through a series of proposals and design briefs, students exercise their conceptual skills in solving complex, open-ended design problems that challenge their imaginative capabilities. By developing an awareness of the higher-order of cognitive processes and connecting to their individual creative spark, students are encouraged to enhance their potential to substantially contribute to the field of Furniture Design.
FURN 732 Evolution of Furniture Design
Presented in a manner that informs and complements their design intentions, innovative interventions, and creative intelligence, this course provides students an understanding of major design proponents, movements and historical trajectories relevant to furniture design. The course draws upon the historical lineage of furniture design and identifies the predominant breakthroughs, materials and techniques throughout history, with specific emphasis on theoretical and ideological developments and the effects of such historical events.
FURN 738 Furniture Studio II: Contextual Studies
The focus of this course is to identify and respond to design problems through an investigation of either a predetermined or a proposed context. Students develop comprehensive documentation of sources, analysis, and synthesis that supports the intended design solution and demonstrate an understanding of material, functional and aesthetic requirements in the execution of the course project. Prerequisite(s): FURN 718.
FURN 742 Directed Research in Furniture Design
As the result of extensive research, students demonstrate the ability to pursue an inclusive concept development process, including the core components of research methodology, analysis, and material integration. The process culminates in a written statement for presentation to the M.F.A. 45-hour review and a narrative draft to accompany a body of work. Prerequisite(s): FURN 738.
FURN 748 Furniture Studio III: Material Investigations
The focus of this course is to conduct research on new information and develop new usage of emerging materials. The information gleaned from research is used in the presentation and execution of a viable design solution. Prerequisite(s): FURN 738.
FURN 749 Furniture Design M.A. Final Project
All M.A. students in furniture design are required to complete a final portfolio project that represents the culmination of their academic program. Prerequisite(s): FURN 738.
FURN 754 Directed Studies I
Application of learned research methodologies and demonstration of in-depth knowledge on furniture design form the basis for this course. The student plans and undertakes the first phase of the intended body of work for their graduate project leading to fully realized forms and the accompanying support documentation. Prerequisite(s): FURN 742.
FURN 760 Experimental Metal Fabrication
This course teaches advanced procedures in the exploration of metal manipulation, machine safety and fabrication. Proper use of hand tools, metal identification and cold assembly techniques are addressed.
FURN 762 Experimental Wood Fabrication
This course is an intensive learning exploration centered on woodworking techniques where the ideation process and fabrication method examines the intrinsic properties of wood and the challenges extended by the variety of wood-working tools and machines. Students enrolled in the program also develop research and critical thinking skills, learn the effective use of visual and verbal presentation medium, and understand the integration of concept, human dimension requirements, technical considerations and necessary safety procedures in fabrication.
FURN 764 Directed Studies II
Evaluation, refinement and focus of the topic investigation provide opportunities for the student to build on the first phase of the graduate thesis project. Deeper analysis, investigation and understanding is reflected in the execution, presentation and documentation of the second phase of the graduate project and exhibit planning. Prerequisite(s): FURN 754.
FURN 767 Furniture Design Merchandising
Through a series of lectures and seminars, this course enables students to identify, challenge and explore new concepts and design competencies within the parameters of markets and opportunities. The course also addresses trends and forecasting, patterns of domestic competition, practices in international import and export, packaging and transport of products. Students are exposed to case studies covering customer buying systems and hierarchies of needs, behavioral tendencies and cultural diversities, price determinants and market cost factors.
FURN 769 Soft Furnishings
Students acquire knowledge of sewing technology, patternmaking, structural design, and upholstery techniques, and conceptualize, develop, design and execute a soft furnishing ensemble constructed from available and alternative materials applicable to varied aesthetic and functional purpose.
FURN 770 Professional Practices in Furniture Design
In this course, students prepare to enter their career field. Topics include developing professional contacts, interviewing skills, portfolio and refined résumés. Graduate students develop a comprehensive package to prepare for employment, based on improved skill sets and capabilities. In-class learning is augmented by visiting furniture manufacture and design facilities in the area.
FURN 779F Graduate Field Internship
Students in this course undertake a field assignment under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite(s): 15 graduate credit hours, good academic standing.
FURN 779T Graduate Teaching Internship
Students in this course undertake a teaching assignment under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite(s): 15 graduate credit hours, good academic standing.
FURN 790 Furniture Design M.F.A. Thesis
All furniture design M.F.A. students are required to develop and prepare an exhibition of an original, cohesive body of work. Students must showcase four to six pieces supported by a written component.
