INTERIOR DECORATINGPROGRAM AND PORTFOLIO INFORMATION

Algonquin College’s Interior Decorating two year diploma program is designed to provide students with the essential decorating skills, business, project management and client relations training required to succeed as an interior decorator.

Program description

Strong emphasis is placed on developing the hands-on component, which is o� ered through courses in colour theory, lighting, furniture and fi nishes. Students also study residential and commercial decor and retail display techniques.

In the Interior Decorating program we help you to hone your creativity and artistic fl are in choosing colour, fi nishes and furniture arrangements for yourself, friends and eventually clients in the wonderful and exciting fi eld of residential and commercial decorating. You will learn through a series of lectures, presentations and fi eld trips. A fi eld placement component is an integral part of the program.

This program is well-suited for students who are imaginative and enjoy solving problems, think visually and creatively, and are planners who enjoy putting plans into action.

Graduates may initially be employed at an assistant level performing duties, such as proposal writing, sample selection, presentation board preparation, client interviews and colour consultations. They may produce written calculations and estimates for work rendered or provide advice for individual client needs.

The Interior Decorating Program at Algonquin College has provided me with a great foundation for my new career.

Following graduation, I launched my own company, Indulge Interiors and I am confi dent in my abilities when meeting with clients and developing new and creative design concepts.

The professors are extremely knowledgeable and supportive throughout the two years and have hands-on experience in the fi eld which is invaluable to the learning process.

Diana Begg – Indulge Interiors

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Program Information

What you need to buyBooks and supplies cost approximately $1,600 in the fi rst year and $1,300 in the second year.

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Program Information

MARKER KITThe Algonquin College Fist Class Bookstore has put together a selection of markers for a starter kit suggested by the drawing instructor. The set of markers is available for sale usually the middle of August for student to purchase at a reduced cost instead of buying them one by one. Approximate cost is $150.00. Additional markers with specifi c colours will have to be purchased individually as needed.

DRAWING KITThe drawing kits are preassembled to make it a� ordable to students by the bookstore. It contains equipment for drawing and general program work materials at an approximate cost $125.00.

DRAFTING KITThe drafting kit contains all the drafting equipment needed for the two year Interior Decorating program of study and is available in a zipped envelope at the Algonquin College First Class Bookstore for approximately $125.00. Students will use this kit throughout their career.

PORTABLE DRAFTING TABLEThe lightweight portable drafting table will be used in various classes throughout the two year program of study. It comes with its own carrying case and has a parallel bar for drafting purposes but can also be used for drawing. Approximate cost is $125.00.

Additional costs should be budgeted for materials to complete assignments and projects. Lost, broken or equipment that is not working correctly will also need to be replaced occasionally .

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Portfolio RequirementsAs part of the application process, you are required to:

1. Submit a portfolio of 8-10 items of personal work to be viewed and graded

2. Complete a Quick Décor Project

3. Complete a questionnaire

4. Enclose a $35 non-refundable assessment fee payable to Algonquin College by cheque, cash or money order

Portfolio content should include: • 8-10 creative or decorating related projects such as drafting, pen & ink or pencil drawings, sketches, portraits, landscapes, perspectives or collages and photographs of larger mediums (oil, acrylic, watercolour, sculpture, pottery). Each item should be carefully labelled.

The following are some of the pieces students have used in portfolio submissions: • Interior decorating projects photographed Before & After with written concept

• Freehand drawing techniques

• Manual drafting

• Perspectives

• Paintings

• Sketch book of thumbnail sketches and concepts

• Computer drawing or drafting

• Computer generated art

• Creative photography techniques

• Evidence of home fashion sewing, quilting, weaving, or needlework

• Photographs of woodwork projects

viewed and graded

to Algonquin College by cheque, cash or money order

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Portfolio Information

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Portfolio Requirements continued

This work can be self-initiated or developed in a classroom setting. There should be at least one hand drawn pencil sketch.

Your portfolio should include a well presented collection of your artistic work illustrated in a variety of mediums. The maximum size of the portfolio should not exceed 15" x 20". Present your work neatly in a black binder with plastic sleeves or in a professional portfolio case. Please label it clearly with yourname and student number. Every item should have a neatexplanation of what it is and why it has been included. Explain what is done in each piece. Please submit your portfolio in person (and collect your Quick Decor envelope),clearly labelled and addressed to:

Algonquin CollegeSchool of Media and Design1385 Woodro� e Avenue, Room N215Ottawa, ON K2G1V8 Canada

If you are unable to hand deliver your work, we recommend that you send your portfolio by courier or Xpresspost™.

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Portfolio Information

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Successful applicants will be awarded space on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis and will only be awarded space once all three (3) portions are complete and submitted.

Assessment of portfolios specifi c to the Interior Decorating program will commence weekly from February 1st until June 1st. After June 1st, portfolio assessments will continue monthly until the program reaches maximum enrolment.

Portfolio Submission SamplesQuick Décor Submission

You will receive a package with three (3) fabric samples and a display board. Applicants must select one of the fabrics and supply three (3) possible colour examples to matchyour selected fabric.

On your fi nished display board, there should be a minimum of three (3) coordinating colour examples plus the original fabric given in your envelope. Samples should be glued in place, neatly trimmed and identifi ed. Each sample must be assigned a number or letter and the information concerning that sample must be neatly labelled on the reverse side indicating what you suggest the sample be used on. For example;

1. Pratt & Lambert paint, colour Chamois #9-25 paint on all walls2. C2 paint Architectural white C21007 W paint for all trim

1

2

3

4

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Portfolio Information

The following will not be accepted:

• Loose drawings in boxes, tubes or fi le folders

• Scrapbooks or photo albums

• Any sculpture or 3D art (photographs of these are acceptable)

• Oil paintings, framed or unframed (photographs or colour reproductions acceptable)

Acceptability is based on the quality and creativity of work submitted in the portfolio. This portfolio is viewed by qualifi ed persons and awarded a grade. This is combined with the applicant’s Quick Décor assignment and questionnaire.

Creative or drawing skills are not a requirement for submission but would be a strong asset in the program.

Bring only your very best work. We ask that you organize your work from the most recent to the fi rst piece created in reverse chronological order. Some students tend to submit all of their work which is not needed. Only the fi rst 10 items are assessed and nothing more.

Plagiarism is not acceptablePortfolio pieces must be created by the applicant. If an item is a joint e� ort, please attach written credit of who collaborated on it and which portion was created by you. Applicants who submit someone else’s work, and not their own, will not be accepted into the program.

Other InformationTo fi nd out more about our program submission requirements please contact the School of Media

• Loose drawings in boxes, tubes or fi le folders

• Scrapbooks or photo albums

• Any sculpture or 3D art (photographs of these are acceptable)

reproductions acceptable)

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Portfolio Information

School of Media and Design Program Coordinator – SJ Normand613-727-4723 ext. 7563 613-727-4723 ext. 58681-800-565-4723 1-800-565-4723design@algonquincollege.co normans@algonquincollege.

algonquincollege.com/mediaanddesign

INTERIOR DECORATINGFrequently Asked Questions

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT SJ NormandCoordinator, Interior Decorating 613-727-4723 ext. 5868 or normans@algonquincollege.com

www.goalgonquin.com/interiordecor

SCHOOL OF MEDIA AND DESIGN

What is the difference between Interior Design and Interior Decorating?Design is the creation of a structure; it is the foundation of decorating. It identifies the architectural components that in turn provide a blank canvas for decorators. Designers create the space through planning according to the building code, and decorators utilize finishes, furniture and accessories to create an individual space for clients. Interior Designers are the architects of interior spaces. Interior Decorators enhance these visual architectural details with finishing techniques and unique solutions. Using furniture layouts, decorators concentrate on the selection of furniture and finishes suitable for a given space. To decorate is to create an atmosphere that will inspire while tailoring space to individual needs.

What kind of classes are there?Classes are held in a combination of drafting labs, computer labs and classrooms. Some of our courses are hybrid that allow for some time in classroom settings, some time on-line or off campus.

Do I need a computer?Yes, you must purchase your own laptop computer. Algonquin College’s Interior Decorating program is PCbased with hardware and software needs that are very specific. This is a prerequisite for acceptance to our program. Strong knowlege in Microsoft Word and Excel is desireable. Laptop specifications can be found at: http://www2.algonquincollege.com/mlearning/hardware2013-2014/

Do I need a drafting table?Our students will need a small portable drafting surface that can be purchased as a kit with a parallel ruler installed. This can be purchased through the local art stores or architectural suppliers. They are also available for purchase in the College Connections bookstore.

Do I need a Portfolio?Every student who applies to the Interior Decorating program is required to submit a portfolio for entry. Information regarding portfolio submissions can be found on the web site under the portfolio tab, or by clicking on the “Important Portfolio Information” button on the landing page.

What are the job possibilities?Graduates of the Interior Decorating program can find employment in a variety of creative and exciting areas. Grads can work in a number of sales positions in both retail and wholesale environments. These can include stores and businesses offering a variety of merchandise such as lighting, furniture, drapery and flooring. Many also find employment in the Kitchen and Bath industry. Interior Decorating grads display strong skills as colour consultants. As a result, many find employment with paint suppliers or in the building industry with contractors or with new home buyers. Many students evolve into self-employed proprietors’ often creating employment or finding work in a decorating studio.