Interior Design Illustrated

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.