DEA 2510

History of Design Futures

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

How does the past inform the future? This course examines the history and theory of environmental design from the classical era to the 20th century, focusing on the relationship between design and innovation as a catalyst for cultural change. How have design innovations broadened the palette of human expression and experience? Key projects, methods, and ideas from across the world will be explored, encouraging a speculative approach to historical material.

Enrollment Information REF-F25 Priority given to: DEA undergraduate majors who have completed 1000-level CORE courses, including DEA 1101, DEA 1150/DEA 1140, and DEA 1500 with minimum grades of B-. DEA minors and transfers will be given enrollment consideration based on course caps and/or permission of instructor.

Distribution Requirements (HA-AG), (HA-HE)

Last 3 terms offered 2024FA, 2023FA, 2022FA

Learning Outcomes REF-FA25

• Develop a foundational understanding of movements and periods in architecture, interior design, art, product design, furniture, landscape, and object/space design, and relate them to their cultural, technological, social, and spatial contexts.
• Explore the use of research, writing, visual analysis, and multimedia in formulating and presenting a thesis or position.| Cultivate a speculative approach to historical material, identify potential linkages between past and current design practice.
• Explore how historical precedents can serve as points of inspiration or resistance in contemporary design practice.
• Consider the impact of shifting modes of technology and systems of communication on cultural, social, physical, and intellectual experiences of spaces and objects, and trace their trajectories.

View Enrollment Information