# Interior Design Materials and Finishes Course Online 100% online with live support and expert-reviewed projects Canonical URL: ## Overview This Materials and Finishes course provides a structured, in-depth exploration of the materials used in professional interior design practice. Students examine concrete, masonry, stone, glass, ceramics, plaster, gypsum, wood, millwork, metals, synthetics, and acoustic systems, learning how each material performs, ages, and interacts within interior environments. Emphasis is placed on material properties, fabrication methods, detailing, sustainability, acoustic performance, and real-world specification. Students will develop the ability to analyze and compare mineral-based, wood, metal, glass, and synthetic materials based on performance characteristics, durability, maintenance requirements, and lifecycle considerations. The course emphasizes interpreting technical ratings and industry standards, including fire-resistance classifications, acoustic performance metrics, code-compliance factors, and sustainability certifications. Participants also apply materials strategically across floors, walls, ceilings, millwork, and custom interior elements in both residential and commercial environments ## What you'll learn - Evaluate interior materials based on performance, durability, maintenance, and design intent - Apply masonry, concrete, stone, and brick finishes in functional and decorative interior applications - Select and specify glass, ceramics, plaster, and gypsum materials for walls, floors, and surfaces - Understand wood species, engineered wood products, millwork, and cabinetry detailing - Assess metals, synthetics, laminates, and composite materials for modern interior environments - Interpret acoustic principles and select finishes that support sound control and user comfort ## Instructors ### Rebecca Lockwood — Instructor Rebecca Lockwood earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from the Michael Graves College at Kean University in New Jersey. She began her career working in residential interiors, where she developed a love for creating homes that reflect the people who live in them. That same dedication naturally grew into a desire to nurture learning and inspire future designers to tell their own stories through design. Today, Rebecca teaches an array of Interior Design courses at a local college in North Carolina and also works with high school students around the world as a remote art and design instructor. She is committed to making design approachable, inspiring students to gain confidence in their skills as they create meaningful interiors. Rebecca is also an Educator member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). Outside the classroom, she writes poetry, appreciating the parallels between poetry and interior design, from structure and rhythm to depth and storytelling. She enjoys spending time with her children and noticing the everyday moments that shape life and design. ### Richard Hess — Instructor Richard Hess is an accomplished designer with over 23 years’ expertise in architecture, interior, and furniture design. He obtained his Bachelor’s Degrees in Architecture and Interior Architecture from Auburn University before pursuing a Master of Architecture at NewSchool of Architecture & Design, where he graduated top of his class. Currently, Richard serves as the Director of Career Services at his alma mater, while teaching thesis and portfolio courses, equipping graduates for careers in the ever-evolving field of architecture and interior design. ### Derek McFarland — Instructor Over the course of the last 10 years of his architectural experience and training, Derek has developed a very strong set of skills and talents towards architecture, design and visualization. Derek grew up in an architectural family with his father owning his own practice in custom home design. Throughout the years, Derek has had the opportunity to work and be involved at his father's architecture office, dealing with clients, visiting job sites, and contributing in design and production works. Recently, Derek has built up an incredible resume of architecture experiences working at firms such as HOK in San Francisco, GENSLER in Los Angeles, and RNT, ALTEVERS Associates, HMC, and currently as the lead designer at FPBA in San Diego. Derek has specialized in the realm of architectural design and digital design. ## Pricing **Tuition:** $579