Featured Faculty
Karen Clarke, LEED AP, IDEC, ASID
Program Co-Director and Associate Professor of Interior Architecture & Design
For Karen Clarke, sustainable design should be an integral part of every interior design project. She’s practiced what she preaches for two decades as a professor and professional. “I have a real passion for sustainability and green design,” says Clarke,“and I want to share my interest, knowledge, and strategies with my students.”
Professor Clarke also guides her students through the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification process, which has been developed by the US Green Building Council to encourage earth-friendly construction and design practices. “It’s our responsibility as interior designers to make sure we select and specify environmentally-friendly materials,” she says.
Sustainability informs her professional practice as well. A house she designed in Lincoln, Massachusetts, was recently featured on the cover of Boston Home Magazine. Professor Clarke completely restored the home to simultaneously gain historical and planning committee approval and earn LEED certification. Several of her Sustainable Design students interned on this project, assisting with research and construction drawings. “It was a great learning experience for them,” she says, proudly adding that several went on to earn their own LEED Accredited Professional certification.