Furniture Design Bachelor’s Program

In beginning the program, sophomores learn to achieve technical competency with a range of materials and their applications, and to develop design processes for evolving concepts through both models and built pieces. Juniors are encouraged to experiment in the course of researching new materials and technologies, various types of furniture and other 3D objects, and issues relating to the human factors of design.

Graduates are prepared to:

• conceive of and develop a body of self-directed work comprised of highly resolved, full-scale furniture and objects.
• effectively use drawing, writing, reading and the making of objects in parallel to explore and articulate original design concepts.
• demonstrate competency in handling a variety of materials and processes by taking a project from concept to finished object.
• apply a unique and adaptable design process to a variety of contexts and problems such as form, materials research, fabrication and use.
• articulate an informed point of view related to the fundamental issues of the discipline of furniture design.

Approximately 75 undergraduates in Furniture Design work in close proximity with a dozen or more graduate students, sharing respect and support for each other's work. As practicing professionals, faculty mentors are also fully engaged with the development of each student's work, offering constructive feedback and advice as skill levels advance and students become increasingly more fluent in expressing their ideas through the medium of furniture and related 3D objects.

In addition to working in the wood shop and other dedicated studio spaces on campus, Furniture Design majors are often invited to present work at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in New York and the Salone Internazionale del Mobile (International Furniture Fair) in Milan, Italy. These opportunities offer an invaluable introduction to the industry, along with exposure to some of the best furniture designers in the world. Furniture Design majors also have opportunities to create original designs for studio partners beyond the realm of furniture manufacturers, with recent projects completed for Swarovski crystals and Steinway pianos, among others.

In the final year, seniors focus on professional practices and create a final body of work that demonstrates a high level of understanding of the principles of furniture design while simultaneously expressing their own vision and aesthetic strengths.