This Materials and Finishes course provides a structured, in-depth exploration of the materials used in professional interior design practice. Students examine concrete, masonry, stone, glass, ceramics, plaster, gypsum, wood, millwork, metals, synthetics, and acoustic systems, learning how each material performs, ages, and interacts within interior environments. Emphasis is placed on material properties, fabrication methods, detailing, sustainability, acoustic performance, and real-world specification.
Students will develop the ability to analyze and compare mineral-based, wood, metal, glass, and synthetic materials based on performance characteristics, durability, maintenance requirements, and lifecycle considerations. The course emphasizes interpreting technical ratings and industry standards, including fire-resistance classifications, acoustic performance metrics, code-compliance factors, and sustainability certifications. Participants also apply materials strategically across floors, walls, ceilings, millwork, and custom interior elements in both residential and commercial environments
By completing this course, you will have developed expertise in:
Evaluate interior materials based on performance, durability, maintenance, and design intent
Apply masonry, concrete, stone, and brick finishes in functional and decorative interior applications
Select and specify glass, ceramics, plaster, and gypsum materials for walls, floors, and surfaces
Understand wood species, engineered wood products, millwork, and cabinetry detailing
Assess metals, synthetics, laminates, and composite materials for modern interior environments
Interpret acoustic principles and select finishes that support sound control and user comfort
Course Curriculum
Lesson 1: Introduction to Materials for Interior Design
The Properties of Interior Materials (4m 24s)
Health, Safety, & Codes (4m 35s)
Human Factors & Ergonomics (3m 44s)
Universal & Accessible Design Principles (3m 57s)
Durability & Maintenance Considerations (4m 8s)
Balancing Function, Use, Budget, & Value (3m 35s)
Sustainable & Responsible Sourcing (3m 44s)
The Material Selection Process (4m 20s)
Digital & Physical Material Boards (3m 11s)
Creating Effective Specification Sheets (3m 15s)
Lesson 2: Concrete, Cement, Stone, Masonry, Brick
Introduction to Mineral Based Materials (5m 7s)
Cement & Concrete (5m 46s)
Concrete Finishes & Treatments (6m 16s)
Masonry Systems (6m 29s)
Brick Composition & Types (6m 9s)
Brick & Masonry in Interior Applications (5m 20s)
Stone: Natural Beauty & Performance (6m 6s)
Stone Interior Details & Fabrication (4m 15s)
Stone Sustainability & Sourcing (3m 26s)
Maintenance, Longevity, & Grout (4m 10s)
Lesson 3: Glass, Ceramics, Plaster, Gypsum
Introduction to Mineral & Silica Based Materials (3m 32s)
The Science of Glass (3m 59s)
Architectural Applications of Glass (4m 16s)
Decorative & Specialty Glass (4m 17s)
Introduction to Ceramics (3m 48s)
Ceramic Tile: Types, Formats, & Installation (4m 20s)
Ceramic Trends & Technology (3m 41s)
Traditional, Modern Plaster, & Stucco (4m 6s)
Introduction to Gypsum & Drywall Systems (3m 10s)
Designers Coordinating with Trades (3m 22s)
Lesson 4: Wood, Wood Products, & Millworks
Introduction to Wood Materials & Finishes (3m 14s)
Wood Anatomy & Species (5m 9s)
Lumber Cutting, Sizing, & Grading (3m 21s)
Engineered Wood Products (2m 51s)
Wood Finishes & Protective Treatments (4m 30s)
Architectural Millwork Systems (5m 31s)
Casework & Cabinetry Design (2m 18s)
Wood Flooring & Ceiling Applications (2m 55s)
Responsible Wood Sourcing & Maintenance (2m 48s)
Wood Lifecycle & End of Life Strategies (3m 24s)
Lesson 5: Metals & Synthetics in Interiors
Introduction to Metals & Synthetics (2m 45s)
Properties of Interior Metals (4m 17s)
Common Interior Metals (3m 51s)
Metal Fabrication & Detailing (5m 23s)
Metal in Architecture & Interior Applications (4m 55s)
Plastics & Acrylics (4m 27s)
Solid Surfaces & Composites (3m 43s)
Laminates & High Performance Surface Systems (3m 43s)
Innovative Design Strategies with Synthetics (4m 2s)
Templating Synthetics (4m 57s)
Lesson 6: Acoustics & Professional Considerations
Introduction to Acoustics (3m 59s)
The Science of Sound Behavior (4m 8s)
Types of Acoustics & Ratings (4m 17s)
Ceiling Finishes Overview & Acoustics (4m 30s)
Acoustic Panels & Tiles (3m 20s)
Suspended & Specialty Options for Ceilings (3m 7s)
Floor Treatments for Sound Control (3m 21s)
Vendor & Procurement Process (4m 55s)
Communicating Material Decisions to Clients (2m 53s)
Working with Sales Representatives (3m 33s)
