Beginnings of Interior Environments

The new edition of the leading textbook remains the gold standard for interior design education.

In this twelfth edition of Beginnings of Interior Environments, established interior designer and professor Lynn M. Jones, ASID, IDEC collaborates with innovator Heidi Plumb, IIDA, IDEC, to deliver a practical and balanced overview of commercial and residential interior design. Written to offer coverage of the creative and technical characteristics of the profession, the text also addresses Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) content.

Part I opens with a discussion on the scope and value of the profession and includes a pictorial overview of the history of design. Subsequent parts cover design fundamentals, the spatial envelope—including space planning and systems—, products and materiality, and designing for a living. A new chapter addresses the art and science of visual communications.

Hundreds of images from actual design projects, supplied by national and international design firms, illustrate quality examples. “Precedent Studies” include in-house production work from these practicing designers.

Content, updated throughout, includes additional information on design thinking, inclusivity, WELL building standards, casework, and architectural millwork. New end-of-chapter self-directed projects provide students the opportunity to apply their knowledge.

Written by two successful educators and practitioners, both NCIDQ certified with terminal degrees, the text applies a balance between education and practice. It is the ideal textbook for introductory interior design or interior architecture courses, and an invaluable resource for anyone looking to apply a holistic interior design perspective to their own home or business.

As in previous editions, the text



Introduces interior design with a foundation in its health, safety, and welfare benefits
Explores design fundamentals, including visual literacy, and the elements and principles of design, with a special emphasis on color and now visual communications
Discusses construction, including building components, codes, regulations, as well as lighting, electrical, and communication systems
Offers an in-depth examination of the profession, including career pathways and professional organizations
Reviews critical global issues such as sustainability, universal design, and culturally sensitive design
Includes a dedicated section on interior materials and finishes—floorings, ceilings, wallcoverings, upholstery—and furnishings such as furniture, art, and accessories
Leads students to analyze the needs of clients to design safe and sustainable environments that enhance the quality of life
Includes a companion site for instructors featuring PowerPoint slides and an Instructor's manual with discussion points, objectives, lecture outlines, learning activities, and example quizzes with answers