Interior Design Illustrated [Paperback]

Francis D. K. Ching (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0471288683 | ISBN-13: 978-0471288688 | Publication Date: July 1, 1987

Offering a comprehensive introduction to interior design, this volume is unique in addressing the architectural context and functional requirements of interior spaces, as well as the details of furnishing and decoration. Francis D.K. Ching's integrated approach to the subject is reflected in the functional value and decorative beauty of the work itself, which is hand-lettered and richly illustrated by the author.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

A Letter from co-Author Corky Binggeli
Interior Design Illustrated 3rd Edition

When I was asked to work with Francis D.K. Ching on the second edition of Interior Design Illustrated, I was a bit intimidated, as I had used his books in my own architectural and interior design education and admired his beautiful illustrations. Now that we have again collaborated on the third edition, I am delighted to be part of this creative team, and I can see how my participation has made an important impact.

Frank is an author, illustrator, architect, and educator. After completing my BA, I studied architecture, but eventually received my masters degree in interior design. The combined knowledge base and point of view of an architect and interior designer is key to the success of Interior Design Illustrated.

Interior Design Illustrated is written and illustrated as an introduction to interior design. Unlike books that seek to teach only the elements of decorative design, Interior Design Illustrated starts with the premise that the design of the interior begins with an understanding of space and its expression in architecture.

A building’s site, solar orientation, and the connection between outside and inside are all critical design elements that affect interior space. Its structure, enclosure system, and building services all support the spaces within the building. The character of interior spaces is shaped by the linear, planar, and volumetric elements of the building’s form.

My decision to become an interior designer (rather than an architect) was based largely on my interest in how people use interior spaces and my love of color and texture, both of which are key to the design of interiors. However, my understanding of architecture and building systems (I am the author of Building Systems for Interior Designers, also published by Wiley) is a great advantage in my design of interior spaces.

As our understanding of sustainable design grows, we are increasingly working in existing buildings and reusing existing materials and furnishings. An appreciation for a building’s architectural context aids in creating interior spaces that belong to the building and make the most of its assets. Creating interior spaces that delight the senses and support human needs is something every interior designer should know how to do.

Working with Frank Ching on this third edition of Interior Design Illustrated has been a pleasure and a learning experience. Frank’s knowledge of architecture is encyclopedic, and his drawings are inspiring. I’ve enjoyed representing the interior design viewpoint and filling in the details that make interior space come alive. --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

From the Back Cover

Offering a comprehensive introduction to interior design, this volume is unique in addressing the architectural context and functional requirements of interior spaces, as well as the details of furnishing and decoration. Francis D.K. Ching’s integrated approach to the subject is reflected in the functional value and decorative beauty of the work itself, which is hand-lettered and richly illustrated by the author. Beginning with the definition and characteristics of architectural space, Mr. Ching discusses the structuring and formation of interior space in three dimensions. He then demonstrates how functional needs can be translated into design decisions; outlines the basic elements and principles of visual design as they are applied to interior design; and explores the functional, aesthetic, and expressive roles such elements can play in the development of three-dimensional space. Finally, he discusses the systems necessary for our environmental health, safety, comfort, and convenience that must be integrated into a building’s structure as well as the design of its interior. The range of illustrations is intended not only to communicate visual information but also to provide fertile ground for insight and creative action. Not only will beginning interior design students find this book invaluable for its concise and accessible presentation of important concepts, but more experienced practitioners — especially architects concerned with the relationship between building structure and interior space — will benefit from Mr. Ching’s novel approach.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 318 pages
• Publisher: Wiley (July 1, 1987)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0471288683
• ISBN-13: 978-0471288688
• Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.4 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #527,745 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

17 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars This is a great book for teaching, July 13, 2000

By 

Becky - See all my reviews

This review is from: Interior Design Illustrated (Paperback)

Interior Design Illustrated is a pictoral book with easily understood text. This book gives the reader a chance to learn the basics of Interior Design. I recommend this book for any Interior Design school to be used in their course.

10 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Resource, November 13, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: Interior Design Illustrated (Paperback)

I am currently getting my degree in ID, and I think that this resource is invaluable. The drawings are great and they really help with perspectives and rendering.

15 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Excellent but abit outdated, February 14, 2002

By 

Kaes Ali (Toronto-Canada) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Interior Design Illustrated (Paperback)

The auther is fantastic, the book is well written otherwise he wouldn't have got the 4 stars, the book covers the subject from A to Z literally speaking, a must have, BUT it is too much outdated.