Strengths
Overview
RISD’s Department of Interior Architecture has located itself “at the intersection of architecture, conservation and design,” where advanced studio work in adaptive reuse is carried out by undergrads and grad students alike. Unlike more traditional interior-decoration programs, courses delve into “understanding the design of buildings from the inside out,” with students developing a firm grasp of researching and planning – via digital and manual designing – alterations and renovations for reinvigorating buildings. Faculty also work to cultivate social and environmental responsibility in students. Shops and labs are plentiful; facilities include a fully equipped wood shop plus 3D model-making lab with fabrication technologies like a CNC machine, laser cutter and rapid prototyping machine. While many alums start their own practices or join established studios, others chart paths as sustainability specialists, set designers, educators and home-furnishing designers. The BFA is awarded in Interior Studies, the MA in Adaptive Reuse and the MD in Interior Studies or in Exhibition.’
Notable alumni
Glenn Lepore of LDL Studio, Franklin Salasky of Kellie Franklin, Alina Vadera of AVA Studio, Sui Park, Lee Savage, David Elia, Andrea Valentini
