Course Overview
This course will introduce students to the business side of residential design projects. Students will prepare project scopes, estimate design fees, create broad budgets, set project schedules, prepare documentation, conduct site reviews, and develop strategies for managing client expectations. The course will also cover private practice ownership and strategies for communicating with employers, suppliers, contractors, and consultants. Students will be introduced to conflict resolution techniques, customer service principles, and standards for ethical conduct. They will examine workplace scenarios from both employee and employer perspectives, prepare for interviews, explore factors contributing to salary increases, and discuss expectations for professional conduct in the studio and beyond.
Credits
4.0
Domestic fees
$1,414.69
International fees are typically 3.4 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Discuss the responsibilities and roles of a designer, as well as the other major players of a residential design project.
- Determine accurate fee structures and broad budgets by evaluating all project components.
- Demonstrate an understanding of starting a business, basic accounting, record keeping, and human resource management.
- Prepare contract documents using written and graphic presentations to communicate the obligations of all parties.
- Communicate with a client professionally throughout the various design stages of a residential project.
- Discuss methods for conflict resolution to solve problems that may arise during the execution of a project.
- Examine the professional and ethical responsibilities of a designer.
Effective as of Fall 2025
Related Programs
Residential Business and Project Management (INTR 3170) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
School of Construction and the Environment
- Residential Interiors
Diploma Part-time
Course Offerings
Fall 2026
Below is one offering of INTR 3170 for the Fall 2026 term.
CRN 48174
Dates
Sep 09 - Nov 25 Loading
- CRN 48174
- $1414.69 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 09 - Nov 25 | Wed | 17:00 - 21:00 | Burnaby NE01 Rm. 351 |
Duration
12 weeks
Instructor
Lori Burns
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- ***Please note*** - Students who do not meet the mandatory prerequisites will be dropped without notice. This class will run partially in person and partially online. Your instructor will provide you with the schedule on the first day of class.
Confirmation
Required
To proceed with registration and add this course to the cart, please confirm:
Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.