Interior Design, Furnishings, and Maintenance Career Pathway Standards
Grades 9-12

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Standard 1 Interior Design, Furnishings, and Maintenance Industry Awareness
Students will understand the breadth of the interior design, furnishings, and maintenance industry, including career opportunities and the role of this industry in local and state economies. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
1.1 Investigating careers related to the industry and their requirements for education or training;
1.2 Describing career paths and strategies for obtaining employment and advancing in the interior design, furnishings, and maintenance industry;
1.3 Assessing the personal qualifications, interests, aptitudes, knowledge, and skills necessary to succeed in interior design, furnishings, and maintenance careers;
1.4 Identifying interior design, furnishings, and maintenance industries, the role of these industries for individuals and families, and contributions to state and local economies;
1.5 Conducting research of legislative and economic trends affecting interior design, furnishings, and maintenance organizations and industries;
1.6 Illustrating an organizational structure and hierarchy, including the relationships and interactions among departments;
1.7 Describing ways in which written and unwritten policies and procedures affect the daily operations of an organization;
1.8 Explaining the benefits of joining professional and trade organizations that relate to the interior design, furnishings, and maintenance industry;
1.9 Identifying the knowledge, skills, aptitudes, and behaviors that can be transferred to higher levels of employment within the career pathway or to other fields; and
1.10 Identifying different specializations in commercial design.

Standard 2 Professional Standards/Dignity of Work
Students will understand what constitutes professional behavior, image, and standards. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
2.1 Describing a code of ethics and identifying the components of professionalism, including integrity, initiative, confidentiality, and respect at the work site;
2.2 Explaining the interdependence and importance of all jobs to the success of an organization;
2.3 Describing and practicing professional and ethical behaviors;
2.4 Identifying clothing, grooming, and personal hygiene appropriate for the job;
2.5 Explaining ways in which on-the-job decisions can affect the quality of work;
2.6 Describing job-related stress and strategies to manage stress;
2.7 Explaining employers' and employees' rights and responsibilities; and
2.8 Determining ways to maintain competency within the industry.

Standard 3 Workforce and Organizational Management
Students will understand workforce and organizational management, including the roles and responsibilities of management and employees. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
3.1 Describing the outcomes of effective management, such as profitability, productivity, employment atmosphere, consumer and client satisfaction, and business growth;
3.2 Explaining workforce management strategies, such as shared responsibilities, negotiation, planning, and decision making;
3.3 Using effective workforce management strategies;
3.4 Analyzing how workforce management strategies affect employees' actions;
3.5 Identifying appropriate business procedures for interior design, furnishings, and maintenance organizations, such as the use of business plans; spreadsheets for payroll and inventories; and other tools for budgets, recordkeeping, and correspondence with consumers and clients; and
3.6 Describing the uses of technology in the various segments of the interior design, furnishings, and maintenance industry.

Standard 4 Operational Procedures and Safety Practices
Students will understand operational procedures and safety practices commonly performed in the interior design, furnishings, and maintenance industry. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
4.1 Using the correct technical terms to describe products, procedures, and equipment unique to the interior design, furnishings, and maintenance industry;
4.2 Describing and performing operational procedures related to quality control, maintenance, storage, security, shipping, receiving, billing, and payment as required by the job;
4.3 Explaining factors affecting profit, such as operational costs, markup, and markdown;
4.4 Describing procedures for preparing, expediting, and tracking forms needed for requisitioning supplies and materials;
4.5 Describing accurately products, procedures, and equipment and recommending the use of equipment and merchandise;
4.6 Preparing and maintaining records, correspondence, and forms as required by the job;
4.7 Describing various types of liability, insurance policies, code compliance, service agreements, and contracts;
4.8 Explaining the tax policies of the California State Board of Equalization, tax forms, and resale numbers;
4.9 Analyzing contracts for errors and omissions;
4.10 Preparing legally correct service agreements or contracts;
4.11 Planning and organizing work schedules with a timeline showing the stages from consultation through installation;
4.12 Describing how to determine various fees; for example, for a designer, a purchaser, or an arranger;
4.13 Identifying and explaining safety features of equipment and tools used to perform various jobs;
4.14 Cleaning and maintaining the workstation, tools, and equipment as required; and
4.15 Storing equipment, tools, and supplies properly.

Standard 5 Laws and Regulations Affecting the Interior Design, Furnishings, and Maintenance Industry
Students will understand the laws and regulations that affect providers of services and their consumers and clients. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
5.1 Describing and complying with laws and regulations affecting the interior design, furnishings, and maintenance industry;
5.2 Identifying local, state, and federal laws, regulations and agencies established to protect employees, employers, customers, and others with special needs;
5.3 Explaining employers' and employees' responsibilities and procedural requirements for complying with laws and regulations;
5.4 Explaining how local, state, and federal regulations and laws are enforced by regulatory agencies, including the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA);
5.5 Identifying and explaining policies and procedures established by the employer; and
5.6 Explaining regulatory and procedural requirements for employers and employees in the industry, including labor relations, personnel policies and procedures, and labor laws.

Standard 6 Merchandise Analysis
Students will understand characteristics and sources of merchandise, finishes, materials, and textiles. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
6.1 Using correct technical terms to describe merchandise;
6.2 Identifying standard sizes and styles of merchandise and products;
6.3 Determining the quality of products and merchandise;
6.4 Explaining what constitutes a textile product and using correct terminology to describe textile products;
6.5 Analyzing the construction methods and techniques used in fabrics;
6.6 Analyzing textile characteristics to select appropriate fabrics for home furnishings;
6.7 Comparing products, tools, and supplies by type, quality, services provided, delivery time, and price;
6.8 Identifying sources for materials and supplies, including showrooms and manufacturers; and
6.9 Analyzing resources to determine the best selections.

Standard 7 Ê Space Planning and Interior Systems
Students will understand space planning and characteristics of interior systems. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
7.1 Identifying and drawing common architectural symbols;
7.2 Measuring an interior space, including placement of doors, windows, and outlets;
7.3 Drawing interior space to scale by using correct architectural symbols;
7.4 Evaluating the arrangement and placement of furniture in an interior environment providing for all activities of the client;
7.5 Estimating space requirements for activities and traffic flow;
7.6 Interpreting blueprints for accuracy, traffic flow, and furniture placement;
7.7 Using computer-assisted drafting (CAD) programs in the design process to plan space and prepare elevations;
7.8 Drawing an elevation to scale that includes furniture, architectural features, window treatments, and accessories;
7.9 Identifying interior systems-such as plumbing; lighting; electrical; and heat, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)-and explaining the function and symbols of each; and
7.10 Recommending placement of interior systems.

Standard 8 Elements and Principles of Design
Students will understand the elements and principles of design. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
8.1 Describing the elements and principles of design, including basic color schemes;
8.2 Applying the elements and principles of design when selecting and coordinating furnishings, materials, and accessories for homes and businesses;
8.3 Describing the interrelationships between the principles of design;
8.4 Helping in color coordination of items purchased by the customer;
8.5 Using the elements and principles of design when helping customers in making furnishing selections;
8.6 Describing the different tasks involved in selecting and coordinating furnishings, materials, and accessories for homes and businesses;
8.7 Recommending items for purchase that are in harmony with products already owned; and
8.8 Selecting furniture according to a client's needs and space.

Standard 9 Window, Wall, and Floor Treatment, Fabrication, and Installation
Students will understand window, wall, and floor treatment, fabrication, and installation. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
9.1 Identifying appropriate tools and supplies needed to install window, wall, and floor treatments and coverings;
9.2 Determining accurate measurements for estimating costs and construction;
9.3 Estimating costs of equipment, materials, and labor;
9.4 Using construction skills and techniques that meet industry standards;
9.5 Interpreting and following orders by using accepted production methods;
9.6 Specifying and following through with job orders;
9.7 Explaining window types, styles, construction, materials, hardware, and functions;
9.8 Describing steps, procedures, and processes necessary for production of draperies and other window treatments;
9.9 Describing energy-efficient qualities of fabrics and materials used for draperies;
9.10 Recommending selection of materials, trims, and finishes appropriate for draperies and other window treatments;
9.11 Recommending and using appropriate chemical finishes that prolong the life of fabrics and materials and meet current health and safety codes for draperies, other window treatments, and floors;
9.12 Applying the elements and principles of design to the production of draperies and other window treatments;
9.13 Operating power and specialty sewing machines and equipment while following appropriate safety guidelines;
9.14 Installing draperies and other window treatments according to product and customer specifications;
9.15 Describing various wall coverings;
9.16 Estimating materials, supplies, and costs of wall and floor coverings;
9.17 Evaluating the condition of walls and floors and recommending work needed before applying wall and floor coverings; and
9.18 Applying wall coverings and installing floor coverings according to work orders.

Standard 10 Furniture Construction
Students will understand construction of furniture, upholstery and slipcovers, and furniture finishes. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
10.1 Describing styles of furniture from historical periods;
10.2 Describing steps, procedures, and processes necessary for the production of furnishing items;
10.3 Identifying types of woods, fillers, materials, finishes, and frames;
10.4 Selecting fabrics, trims, and finishes appropriate for residential and commercial furnishing items;
10.5 Analyzing fabrics to determine appropriate techniques for handling and construction;
10.6 Interpreting and following work orders by using accepted production methods;
10.7 Describing construction techniques that meet industry standards;
10.8 Repairing furnishing items according to customer standards, specifications, and needs;
10.9 Recommending appropriate chemical finishes that prolong the life of fabrics and materials for furnishings and meet current health and safety codes;
10.10 Designing furnishings according to customer standards and specifications and in accord with the elements and principles of design; and
10.11 Using ergonomics and anthropometrics when designing furnishings.

Standard 11 Sales and Merchandising
Students will understand merchandising, display, and sales of residential and commercial furnishings. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
11.1 Receiving, inventorying, and storing merchandise;
11.2 Wrapping, packaging, or protecting merchandise for safe shipping, delivery, and storage;
11.3 Unpacking, assembling, preparing, and marking prices on merchandise;
11.4 Taking inventory and stock counts;
11.5 Filing claims for damaged merchandise, shortages, overcharges, and substitutions;
11.6 Maintaining, organizing, and filing product information, catalogs, and price lists;
11.7 Describing various industry-coding systems;
11.8 Identifying standard sizes and styles of merchandise;
11.9 Describing characteristics of merchandise, including construction, style, features, size, and performance and recommending procedures for care and maintenance to customers;
11.10 Estimating costs of materials and labor to determine prices;
11.11 Comparing design, durability, and cost of merchandise constructed by different methods and manufacturers;
11.12 Interpreting product information, including labels, specifications, guarantees, warranties, and servicing as required for the field of work;
11.13 Suggesting suitable merchandise for specific purposes;
11.14 Applying appropriate sales techniques and procedures to marketing and merchandising;
11.15 Designing effective store or window displays;
11.16 Preparing and presenting a sales presentation to address the clients' requests, including scaled drawings, cost estimates, and renderings;
11.17 Using necessary equipment and procedures for cash and credit transactions;
11.18 Analyzing important customer service factors and using effective customer relations strategies for handling customer questions and complaints; and
11.19 Maintaining records by using current technology, including computers.

Standard 12 History of Furniture and Furnishings Design
Students will understand the history and events that have influenced the design of furnishings. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
12.1 Describing characteristics of furnishings that typify various periods throughout history;
12.2 Analyzing how furnishings at a particular period in history were influenced by political, social, economic, and aesthetic conditions;
12.3 Analyzing how prosperity, mass production, and technology are related to the economics of the furnishings industry; and
12.4 Tracing the evolution of a specific furniture design throughout history.

Standard 13 Residential and Commercial Interior Design
Students will understand all aspects of design, space planning, and drafting as those concepts pertain to commercial and residential interior design. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
13.1 Explaining the importance of a design concept;
13.2 Relating design concepts to clients' profiles;
13.3 Drawing replacement schematics;
13.4 Creating scaled floor plans for residential and commercial rooms;
13.5 Analyzing space-planning problems;
13.6 Describing appliances, furniture, fixtures, materials, and finishes appropriate for use in kitchen and bath designs;
13.7 Analyzing the role of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and barrier-free elements and safety features in the planning of residential and commercial designs;
13.8 Describing and drawing cabinetry to specifications;
13.9 Outlining procedures for installing kitchen and bath appliances and cabinetry;
13.10 Describing tasks required in overseeing installations, punch lists, and sign-off sheets; and
13.11 Using computer-assisted drafting (CAD) programs in designing residential and commercial environments, including open office systems.

Standard 14 Residential and Commercial Interior Maintenance
Students will understand the care and maintenance of surfaces, furnishings, supplies, and equipment in residential and commercial interiors. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
14.1 Identifying and comparing job tasks required to clean and maintain residential and commercial buildings;
14.2 Identifying appropriate cleaning supplies and equipment needed to perform a variety of cleaning tasks;
14.3 Analyzing the purpose of and information in the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs);
14.4 Describing safety procedures for handling, using, storing, and disposing of cleaning supplies, including hazardous waste materials and equipment;
14.5 Determining how to meet customer needs for cleaning and maintenance services;
14.6 Performing procedures to prevent damage to furnishings when cleaning and maintaining residential and commercial areas;
14.7 Evaluating a variety of cleaning problems and recommending appropriate solutions;
14.8 Using standards for quality to evaluate work performed;
14.9 Following operational procedures to complete records and billing for work performed;
14.10 Describing basic repairs that can be completed by a property maintenance service;
14.11 Evaluating a variety of problems to determine whether simple repairs can be performed to remedy the problems;
14.12 Creating service contracts for daily, weekly, and bimonthly cleaning and maintenance services;
14.13 Estimating the time, labor, cost, supplies, and equipment necessary to complete a job;
14.14 Using work scheduling sheets or computer programs to prepare work schedules;
14.15 Describing procedures for informing customers of the work to be performed and the cost; and
14.16 Outlining procedures to schedule special maintenance.

Standard 15 Personal, Interpersonal, and Communication
Students will understand how personal, interpersonal, and communication skills influence employability. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
15.1 Describing interpersonal skills that enhance relationships at the work site, such as working cooperatively, communicating effectively, sharing responsibilities, and exercising leadership;
15.2 Analyzing the importance of such personal skills as a positive attitude, self-confidence, honesty, integrity, and self-discipline as these characteristics pertain to work, personal, and family life;
15.3 Explaining ways in which to resolve conflicts, use negotiation skills, and communicate resolutions across gender, age, and cultural groups;
15.4 Assessing the importance of effective nonverbal, oral, and written communication skills in getting and keeping a job;
15.5 Using appropriate communication skills, including correct telephone, facsimile, and e-mail etiquette; and
15.6 Interpreting nonverbal communication and responding appropriately.

Standard 16 Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Students will exhibit critical and creative thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
16.1 Identifying issues and problems in the interior design, furnishings, and maintenance industry and offering possible solutions;
16.2 Considering multiple options for completing work tasks and applying appropriate problem-solving strategies to work-related issues; and
16.3 Applying creative thinking skills to identify and present new ways to perform work effectively.

Standard 17 Balancing Personal, Family, and Work Responsibilities
Students will understand management strategies needed to achieve balance in work, personal, and family life. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
17.1 Identifying and analyzing multiple roles as members of the workforce, families, and communities;
17.2 Identifying and analyzing resources that help in managing the responsibilities of multiple roles;
17.3 Identifying and applying management strategies needed to achieve balance in work and family roles; and
17.4 Evaluating effectiveness in balancing responsibilities at home and work.

Standard 18 Teamwork and Leadership
Students will understand the teamwork and leadership concepts and skills needed to succeed in work, personal, family, and community life. They will demonstrate content proficiency by:
18.1 Identifying, comparing, and analyzing the characteristics and benefits of teamwork, leadership, and citizenship in the workplace and community;
18.2 Defining leadership roles in work and community life;
18.3 Identifying and practicing strategies for effective teamwork, leadership, and citizenship in the workplace and community;
18.4 Developing skills in teamwork, leadership, and citizenship by participating in FHA-HERO activities;
18.5 Analyzing and using written and professional resources that help in developing skills in teamwork and leadership; and
18.6 Assessing how skills in teamwork and leadership enhance employability.