Designing for Life, From the Inside Out

Learning Objectives:
- Discuss two contemporary trends in interior design choices.
- Understand the benefits of biophilic design and its impact on modern lifestyles.
- List two strategies used for connecting indoor spaces with the outdoors.
- Describe two strategies used to create a modern design amidst an historical context.
This course is part of the Interiors Academy
This course is part of the The Interiors Academy
Below are a set of links to building type studies from Architectural Record, which are in-depth analyses of particular kinds of buildings, with photos, drawings, specifications, detailed descriptions, and design solutions. Click on each link below, read the article then complete the quiz to earn your credit and certificate of completion.
The projects presented in this course show a wide range of interior spaces, all designed to reflect the modern lifestyles of their owners, as well as the latest design trends such as biophilic design. These designs demonstrate innovative and creative ways of bringing the outdoors inside, addressing perceptions through material selection and integrating old with new.
RS Apartment by Studio Arthur Casas
The stunning blue waters of the South Atlantic Ocean take center stage in the design of this apartment in a mid-1980s building Brazilian building.
Tom Hennigan
West Chelsea Residence by LUCE et Studio Architects
Steel-clad doors, a silk-screened glass panel room divider, and thick planks of California oak, juxtaposed with a diaphanous screen of sheer draperies create a California-style urban retreat in Manhattan.
Linda C. Lentz
Gallery House by John Ronan Architects
This modern home, in an historic setting, features elements that resonate with the neighborhood typology.
Linda C. Lentz
Inside Out
Beautiful craftsmanship, detailing, and materials define the luxury of disarmingly simple interiors.
Cathleen McGuigan
Heard Residence by MacPherson Architects / 2MA
Contemporary design contrast with the historic details of this Ohio home built in 1875.
Leslie Clagett
Meadow Lane Residence by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects | Partners
For architects who say they, “don’t do houses”, this one is a stunner.
Josephine Minutillo
PATH by ARTechnic architects'
This unique Tokyo home is as much a piece of the landscape as a place to live.
Naomi R. Pollock, FAIA

Photo © Michael Moran
A sliding door displays work by Scottish artist Callum Innes and conceals the guest suite as needed.