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Surface design and color impacts people in one way or another. Why do some surroundings induce a sense of calm, happiness, or inspiration while others offer nothing but distraction, discomfort, chaos, doom, and gloom? Interior surfaces are the point of contact between users and their environment, as well as an important connection between the visual world and physical world. This course will examine the integral role that surface color and design plays in interior spaces. Key requirements in the selection and specification process will also be discussed.
Upon completion of this course, the Learner should be able to:
- Define materiality and explore the physical qualities of materials in the built environment that affect the physical, mental, and social well-being among users.
- Identify the perceptions and meanings of materials in order to develop effective design strategies.
- Recognize the message by exploring the relevance and importance of how surfaces impact the senses and developing strategies for design implementation.
- Evaluate maintenance requirements by assessing surface color and design for optimum material performance goals.
Approximately 1 hour. Delivered online, at your own pace.
Presented by Sally Chavez on behalf of Wilsonart. View the Privacy Policy .
Presenter Information

Name: Sally Chavez
Title: Senior Designer, Wilsonart
Background: Sally Chavez, NCIDQ, LEED AP ID C is a senior designer for Wilsonart LLC in Temple, Texas. She worked for more than 30 years in the southwest market in commercial interiors, with a focus on healthcare, workplace, and education. Sally has a comprehensive view of the design process after working in many different segments of the industry. As a product designer for Wilsonart, she uses the skills she cultivated and the knowledge she gained to develop products that are relevant for today’s A&D market.