One-Year Diploma in Sustainable Interior Design

Total Duration: 1 Year (2 Semesters)
Target Audience: Graduates, aspiring interior designers, architects, professionals in design fields
Mode: Studio + Practical + Industry exposure
Outcome: Portfolio development, real-world sustainable design understanding, and employability/entrepreneurial skills

Semester 1 – Foundation of Sustainable Interiors

Focus: Understanding sustainability, materials, design thinking, and interior fundamentals

1. Introduction to Sustainable Interior Design (4 weeks)
  • History and evolution of sustainable design
  • Principles of sustainability (environmental, social, and economic)
  • Global standards and certifications (LEED, GRIHA, WELL, IGBC)
2. Materials, Textures & Finishes in Sustainable Design (4 weeks)
  • Eco-friendly and recycled materials
  • VOC-free paints, sustainable flooring, bamboo, reclaimed wood, jute, cork
  • Comparative analysis of conventional vs sustainable materials
3. Elements & Principles of Interior Design (4 weeks)
  • Space planning, scale and proportion
  • Color theory, lighting basics
  • Sustainable use of natural elements (sunlight, ventilation)
4. Design Thinking & Human-Centered Design (3 weeks)
  • Empathy in space design
  • Ideation, prototyping, testing
  • Inclusive and accessible design
5. Technical Drawing & Visualization (3 weeks)
  • Drafting techniques and tools
  • Introduction to CAD and digital rendering
  • Annotated layout planning for green interiors
Project 1:

Mini Studio Project – Design a sustainable micro-living space (tiny home, student hostel, etc.)

Semester 2 – Application & Professional Practice

Focus: Advanced design application, systems thinking, real-world project integration

1. Sustainable Building Systems (4 weeks)
  • Energy-efficient HVAC, insulation, and lighting
  • Solar panels and renewable energy integration
  • Water conservation systems, greywater recycling, rainwater harvesting
2. Biophilic & Vernacular Design (3 weeks)
  • Biophilic principles: connection to nature
  • Learning from traditional Indian interiors
  • Regional and climate-sensitive design
3. Interior Landscaping and Waste Management (3 weeks)
  • Indoor vertical gardens, air-purifying plants
  • Organic composting, waste segregation in interiors
  • Upcycling waste into interior products
4. Interior Styling & Green Decor (3 weeks)
  • Eco-conscious furniture and decor
  • Ethical brands and sustainable textiles
  • Minimalist and slow design styling
5. Professional Practice & Portfolio Development (3 weeks)
  • Sustainable project documentation
  • Client communication & ethical sourcing
  • Portfolio preparation & industry presentation
Final Project:

Capstone Project – Design a sustainable interior for a real or hypothetical commercial/residential space, with full material and environmental analy

 Tools & Software Introduced
  • SketchUp
  • AutoCAD
  • Photoshop & Illustrator (for presentations)
  • Manual sketching + material boards
🌿 Add-ons & Certifications (Optional)

  • Industry webinars with green architects
  • Field visits to green buildings/factories