Furniture Design

Measure concepts in form and function

Herron’s Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program in furniture design is one of the very best in the country and provides for the full development of studio designers and makers.

Contemporary woodworking is the foundation of our program, but we place equal emphasis on thinking and making with sustainability in mind.

As a furniture design major, you will build upon your creative problem-solving skills while using both traditional and contemporary tools and processes. You will learn to take an idea from conception to completion and to consider function, aesthetics, and assembly – whether bespoke or mass-produced.

Finally, your senior portfolio will showcase robust pieces that are both conceptually sound and visually stunning.

Dynamic personal growth

Through mentorship, your professors will encourage you to pursue professional development opportunities in and outside the classroom, ranging from projects with community partners to conferences and summer residencies. You will also actively exhibit your work in the community as part of the curriculum.

Design in practice

Your student experience will be grounded in the national conversation of furniture design. Classes are augmented with visiting artists, field trips, student and professional design competitions, fairs and exhibitions, and other pertinent professional activities to help push your designs and craft even further.

Plan of study

B.F.A. degree map

Critical courses and milestones for each semester towards a B.F.A. in furniture design

IU Indianapolis Campus Bulletin

Required course names and descriptions for a B.F.A. in furniture design

Herron has greatly increased my confidence as a maker. The faculty and staff are incredibly supportive with their time and feedback, and have shared opportunities that have helped me grow professionally.
Shamira Wilson, furniture design major

Student work

See more student work

Left to right, top to bottom: Henry Burke, Untitled, 2021. Henry Burke, Untitled, 2022. Tycory Edwards, Untitled, 2021. Jessy Fearnow, Untitled, 2022. Cam McGookey, Untitled, 2021. Colleen Gross, Untitled, 2022. Lizzy Rodgers, Untitled, 2021. Lizzy Rodgers, Untitled, 2022. Michael Schaff, Untitled, 2021. Annie Sinchai, Untitled, 2022. Annie Sinchai, Untitled, 2021. Lilly Tomandl, Untitled, 2022. Courtesy of the artists

Foundation studies

Your first year at Herron focuses on skills that are crucial to your success in art and design school. You will explore basic principles and techniques, as well as your own historical, cultural, and personal influences as an artist or designer.

Learn more about foundation studies

Facilities

8,000 square feet of well-equipped studio space, split between two rooms, will provide you with access to every tool, machinery, and resource at your fingertips. An experienced technician will also be on hand to offer support.

Drill presses, scroll saws, and mortising equipment
Two computer stations and a drafting station
Vacuum pressing station for advanced laminating and veneer techniques
Tool cabinets with hand tools, small power tools, and design materials

Vertical lockers for storing lumber and other materials
Sanding and grinding station
Three bandsaws, two table saws, and a vertical panel saw
A variety of planers, jointers, and sanders
Router table
14 shared workbenches

Enhance your degree

Pursuing a minor or certificate can help broaden your perspective and give you a competitive advantage in your chosen field.

Ceramics (B.F.A.)

Sculpture (B.F.A.)

Professional opportunities

Whether you go on to open a design studio or work in a related field, your education will prepare you with the industry knowledge that’s needed to join the next generation of studio furniture makers and designers.

Pursue your calling as a professional: