Interior
What does “negative space” mean in interior design?
The empty space around and between objects in a room.
What is a façade?
The exterior face or front of a building.
What is symmetry in architecture?
When elements are arranged so that one side visually mirrors the other.
What is a technical drawing?
A precise drawing that communicates the size, shape, and construction details of an object or structure.
What is the difference between tactile and visual texture?
Tactile texture can be physically felt, while visual texture only appears textured to the eye.
What is an open-plan interior?
A layout with few or no dividing walls between functional areas.
What is an exterior elevation?
A drawing showing one side of a building as viewed straight on.
What is natural ventilation?
Using openings such as windows and vents to allow air to flow through a building.
What is a dimension line?
A line used to show the measurement of an object or distance.
What is upholstery?
The fabric, padding, and covering used on furniture such as sofas and chairs.
Which type of lighting provides general illumination in a room?
Answer: Ambient lighting.
Ambient lighting
What is hardscaping?
Non-living landscape elements such as patios, paths, retaining walls, and driveways.
What is passive solar design?
Designing a building to naturally use sunlight for heating and lighting.
What is a hidden line?
A dashed line used to represent edges or features that cannot be seen directly.
Why are textured materials used in interior design?
They add visual interest, depth, contrast, and sensory variety to a space.
What does “biophilic design” mean?
Biophilic design means designing spaces to connect people with nature.
What is an overhang?
A part of a building or roof that extends beyond the wall below it.
What is brutalist architecture?
An architectural style known for bold geometric forms and exposed materials, especially concrete.
What is an isometric drawing?
A 3D representation in which the three principal directions are typically shown at equal angles.
What is acoustic absorption?
The ability of a material to absorb sound energy and reduce reflections within a space.
What is ergonomics, and why is it important in interior design?
Ergonomics means designing spaces and furniture to fit people’s needs and movements.
What is the difference between a rainscreen façade and a conventional exterior wall cladding system?
A rainscreen façade uses a ventilated cavity behind the exterior cladding to drain water and allow airflow, helping protect the building from moisture. A conventional cladding system may rely more heavily on the wall assembly itself to resist water penetration.
Why are arches structurally efficient?
Arches primarily transfer loads through compression, directing forces along their curved form toward their supports.
Why can’t a single orthographic view fully describe many 3D objects?
Because one 2D view may hide important information about the object's depth, shape, or features. Multiple views—such as front, top, and side—are often required to completely define the object.
Why must designers consider both the aesthetic and technical properties of a material?
Because a material must not only look appropriate but also perform safely and effectively under the conditions of the space, including moisture, wear, temperature, maintenance, and user activity.