Course

Module 1: History and Evolution of Furniture Design

Origins of furniture in ancient civilizations (Egypt, Greece, Rome, India, China); Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Victorian furniture styles; 20th-century design movements: Bauhaus, Modernism, Postmodernism; Indian furniture heritage: colonial, vernacular, artisanal traditions; Influence of culture, politics and technology on furniture evolution

Module 2: Furniture Typologies and Functional Classifications

Classification by use: seating, sleeping, storage, tables, systems furniture; Built-in vs. movable furniture; Typologies for different spaces: residential, commercial, institutional, hospitality; Customization and modularity in contemporary furniture; Adaptable, multi-functional, and space-saving furniture solutions

Module 3: Ergonomics, Anthropometry and User-Centred Design

Principles of ergonomics and anthropometric data; Designing for posture, comfort, and movement; Human-furniture interaction in various age groups and abilities; Standards and guidelines for furniture dimensions; Case studies: chairs, workstations, kitchen modules, school furniture.

Module 4: Materials, Construction Techniques and Sustainability

Materials used in furniture: wood, metal, plastic, cane, bamboo, glass, upholstery; Joinery, hardware, and detailing; Finishes and coatings; Sustainable practices: recycled materials, low-VOC finishes, local crafts; Emerging technologies: CNC, modular kits, digital fabrication, 3D printing

Course Objectives

§ To introduce the historical development of furniture across cultures and time periods, examining how styles, materials, and design ideologies have shaped furniture as an expressive and functional art form.

§ To explore the classification of furniture based on function, context and spatial application, emphasizing design intent, adaptability, and innovation in contemporary interiors.

§ To provide students with an understanding of ergonomics and anthropometric standards for designing furniture that enhances comfort, usability and inclusivity.

§ To familiarize students with materials, joinery, construction methods and sustainable practices in furniture design and manufacturing.

Course Outcomes

 After completing this course, students will be able to:

CO1 :  Identify key furniture styles and movements, recognize historical influences on form and function, and relate global and Indian traditions to contemporary furniture design.

CO2 : Categorize furniture types, evaluate their functional roles within various interior settings and conceptualize typological solutions that respond to space and user needs.

CO3 : Apply ergonomic principles to evaluate or propose furniture designs that suit diverse user groups and improve human-furniture interaction.

CO4 : Assess the suitability of materials and techniques for various furniture applications and propose design solutions that integrate sustainability and craftsmanship.

Evaluation Pattern

Reading Material

1. John Pile and Judith Gura. (2013). History of Interior Design (4th ed.). Wiley.
2. Judith Miller. (2010). Furniture: World Styles from Classical to Contemporary. DK Publishing.
3. Mark Hinchman. (2009). History of Furniture: A Global View. Fairchild Books.
4. Stuart Lawson. (2013). Furniture Design: An Introduction to Development, Materials and Manufacturing. Laurence King Publishing.