The Building Materials in Interior Design course is designed to give learners a strong understanding of the materials, finishes, and products that shape the look, feel, and function of interior spaces. Interior design is not only about aesthetics but also about selecting the right materials that balance durability, safety, sustainability, and visual appeal.
Throughout the course, participants will explore a wide range of materials commonly used in interiors, including wood, stone, glass, metal, ceramics, fabrics, composites, and eco-friendly options. They will learn about the properties, applications, advantages, and limitations of each material, as well as how different finishes and treatments can transform a space.
The course also emphasizes practical knowledge, such as material sourcing, cost considerations, maintenance requirements, and sustainability practices. Case studies and real-world examples will be used to show how materials influence design decisions, mood, and functionality in residential, commercial, and hospitality projects.
By the end of the program, learners will be able to confidently select, evaluate, and apply building materials that enhance both the aesthetic quality and performance of interior spaces, making this course valuable for interior design students, junior designers, and professionals looking to strengthen their material knowledge.
The Building Materials in Interior Design course introduces learners to the essential role that materials play in shaping interior spaces. Every surface, finish, and texture contributes not only to the aesthetic appeal of a design but also to its functionality, durability, and comfort. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the wide variety of materials available to interior designers and how to make informed choices based on project needs.
Learners will explore the properties, applications, and performance of common interior materials such as wood, stone, ceramics, glass, metals, fabrics, composites, and sustainable alternatives. The course emphasizes how different finishes and treatments affect mood, style, and usability, as well as how to balance factors like cost, safety, sustainability, and maintenance in material selection.
Through case studies and hands-on examples, participants will also examine how building materials are applied across residential, commercial, and hospitality design projects. By the end of the program, learners will have the knowledge and confidence to select materials that enhance design concepts, meet functional requirements, and align with industry standards.
Explore the role of materials in interior design, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and durability. Learn about common materials such as wood, stone, glass, metal, ceramics, fabrics, and composites. Understand key properties like strength, texture, finish, sustainability, and maintenance, with case examples of how materials influence mood and style.
Dive into the use of specific materials: wood (types, veneers, laminates, finishes), stone and ceramics (tiles, marble, granite), and glass and metals (modern finishes, flexible designs). Apply this knowledge in a practice activity by creating a mini material board for residential or commercial spaces.
Examine durability, safety standards, fire resistance, cost, sourcing, and availability in material selection. Get introduced to eco-friendly and sustainable options such as bamboo, recycled composites, and green finishes. Review case studies of sustainable interior projects in Malaysia and around the world.
Apply learning by combining materials effectively for harmony, contrast, and balance in design. Select suitable materials for residential, commercial, and hospitality interiors. In the final workshop, prepare a materials and finishes board for a project brief and present it, justifying choices in terms of function, budget, and design goals.
4-Day Short Course: Building Materials in Interior Design
Day 1: Introduction to Building Materials in Interiors
The role of materials in interior design: aesthetics, function, and durability
Overview of common interior materials (wood, stone, glass, metal, ceramics, fabrics, composites)
Material properties: strength, texture, finish, sustainability, and maintenance
Case examples: how materials influence mood and style in interiors
Day 2: Application of Key Materials
Wood: types, veneers, laminates, and finishes
Stone and ceramics: tiles, marble, granite, and applications
Glass and metals: modern finishes and design flexibility
Practice activity: creating a mini material board for a living or commercial space
Day 3: Material Performance & Sustainability
Durability and maintenance considerations
Safety standards and fire resistance in material selection
Cost, sourcing, and availability factors
Introduction to eco-friendly and sustainable materials (bamboo, recycled composites, green finishes)
Case studies: sustainable interior projects in Malaysia and internationally
Day 4: Practical Workshop & Final Project
Combining materials for design concepts (contrast, harmony, and balance)
Material selection for residential, commercial, and hospitality interiors
Workshop: preparing a material and finishes board for a project brief
Final presentations and critique: justifying material choices for function, budget, and design goals
Interior Designer
Material & Finishes Specialist
Interior Design Consultant
Sustainable Design Consultant
Furniture & Product Designer
Project Coordinator (Interior Projects)
Specification Writer
Visual Merchandiser
201901011352 (1320680-K)
