EPCC’s Interior Design Technology Program is creating projects to get exposure.
For over 25 years, the program has been helping students achieve their potential. It has one full-time and three part-time instructors. The program is currently located at the Transmountain campus.
“To put it simply, design is a planned arrangement where basic elements and principles work together to create a pleasing, functional and safe environment,” said Maria Prospero, interior design coordinator and full time instructor.
Eddie Alcala, a design student of Prospero, said, “She brings the creativity out of you.”
The interior design program had just finished decorating a booth at a
Christmas Fair for the Junior League. They are now working on Room 1605 in the TM library which is being shared by Phi Theta Kappa and the honors program.
Dr. Joanne Peeples, honors adviser, and Terri Mann, Phi Theta Kappa adviser met with Maria Prospero about the concerns they had about their room.
Peeples said, “There were holes in the wall, and it was horrible. Something had to be done. It would be a great interior design honors project.”
Prospero had seen Eddie Alcala’s work and he wanted to participate in the project. Alcala is in his second semester in the program, and already had some realworld experience, such as painting houses, stores and faux finishes.
Alcala wanted to do something that wasn’t dull and boring, something more inspirational, he said.
“This is a good chance for students to see the potential of interior design students and what Ms. Prospero teaches us,” said Alcala.
When Alcala saw the Buddha’s head in the library, which is a loan to the library by Ho Baron, he was inspired.
Baron is a sculptor and part-time librarian at TM. When he lent out the piece of art, he knew that not only will Phi Theta Kappa and the honors program be able to enjoy it, but also any group of students who may use the room.
Barron said, “When I saw the Buddha head it intrigued me as a piece of sculpture. The Buddha has no religious emphasis, it represents peace.”
When talking about the effects of color Alcala said, “Color is important, it sets the mood and affects your health.”
The colors Alcala chose to paint the walls in the part of the library he is currently working on in plum medium, medium to dark rust and light mustard. He painted each wall a different color.
Alcala is planning to have the focal point of the room to be on the Buddha’s head, with a backlight that creates a silhouette.
Along with the Buddha’s head he is planning to put up some of his Zen inspired paintings.
The project is scheduled to be finished at the end of the semester.
“Interior Design continues to be a dynamic and growing profession,” said Prospero. “The industry is always looking for qualified individuals. We promote the students creativity and give them the skills employers want.”
If you have any questions about the interior design program or any future projects, please contact Maria Prospero at 831-5045.
