This course presents a broad survey of the development of interiors, with an emphasis on furniture, from Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages through the beginning of the 20th century. We consider furnishings and interiors within their own time and culture while recognizing the incorporation of earlier influences throughout this history. Our examination of historic examples of furniture and interior spaces will be undertaken within the larger contexts of art, design, architecture, society, fashion, politics and technology, informing and enriching students’ understanding of contemporary design practice.

This course presents a broad survey of the development of interiors, with an emphasis on furniture, from Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages through the beginning of the 20th century. We consider furnishings and interiors within their own time and culture while recognizing the incorporation of earlier influences throughout this history. Our examination of historic examples of furniture and interior spaces will be undertaken within the larger contexts of art, design, architecture, society, fashion, politics and technology, informing and enriching students’ understanding of contemporary design practice.