IDSD 3200 - Sustainable Design Strategies + Technologies

Credits: 3

Students must enroll in this course to meet the requirements of the Sustainable Design Specialization. This junior-level course builds upon the foundations of sustainable design principles and processes developed in previous courses by challenging students to further develop and apply their understanding of the environmental, social, and economical impacts of resource use; design strategies; and building technologies to a variety of design applications. Emphasis is on thinking critically about the interdependence of sustainability issues and strengthening problem-solving and communication skills through in-depth analysis of sustainable design procedures as they apply to high performance buildings using collaborative, research-based application of strategies and performance-based specifications, as well as a variety of third-party sustainable design rating systems. Coursework must be completed using the sustainable knowledge and strategies obtained to date. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to analyze and apply industry recognized sustainable design strategies and approaches using appropriate LEED and other Sustainable Design rating systems within residential and commercial design projects.

Prerequisites: ID 2530 - Building Codes + Regulations, and IDSD 2870 - Sustainable Holistic Design

Notes: (Formerly IDSD 2870 Holistic Design - Sustainable Design)

The textbooks Biophilic Design: The Theory, Science + Practice of Bringing Buildings to Life and Green Studio Handbook, 2nd Edition are also used in IDSD 4200.

Course Learning Outcomes:
Interior Design learning outcomes are governed by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) Professional Standards found at https://accredit-id.org/professional-standards/. Each course in the RMCAD Interior Design program addresses multiple CIDA standards.

Develop a comprehensive interior design project based on project intent, instructor guidance and in accordance with the CIDA indicators provided for this course.
Conduct research and develop sustainable design strategies for existing spaces and new projects.
Analyze and research-built projects that address sustainable design through high tech and low-tech strategies and budget parameters.
Identify and qualify sustainable products and processes in order to develop effective design solutions.
Conduct a “green analysis” of an existing commercial building and make recommendations for effective sustainable changes.
Develop a working knowledge of how sustainable design principles, processes and products may be integrated effectively into the design of the built environment.
Explore how Need for Nature Theories may be used as a premise for the design of the built environment in order to maintain optimum physical and emotional health and well-being.
Analyze Green Design issues from all angles in an effort to increase the likelihood of making choices that are best for each individual project.

Required Textbooks:
Biophilic Design: The Theory, Science + Practice of Bringing Buildings to Life - ISBN: 9780470163344

The Green Studio Handbook - ISBN: 9780080890524