Top Furniture Design Schools

Furniture design is a highly specialized field that combines creativity, craftsmanship, and technical skill to create functional and aesthetically pleasing objects for the modern world. As cities and lifestyles evolve, so too does the need for innovative furniture that meets the demands of contemporary living, working, and leisure spaces. Students pursuing a degree in furniture design must acquire a unique set of skills, including an understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, ergonomics, and sustainability, while also developing a strong sense of artistic vision and design philosophy. Across the globe, several universities offer exceptional furniture design programs that combine technical training with creative exploration. Among the top institutions for furniture design are Northern Michigan University, the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, London Metropolitan University, and Kingston University London.

Northern Michigan University (NMU) in the United States offers a comprehensive and hands-on approach to furniture design through its School of Art and Design. The university provides several degree options, including the Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), and Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degrees in Furniture Design. The program emphasizes the woodworking process, equipping students with a deep understanding of the craft that forms the foundation of furniture creation. However, NMU also encourages students to broaden their skill set by exploring other areas such as sculpture, ceramics, metals, and foundry work. This multidisciplinary approach fosters creativity and allows students to draw inspiration from a wide range of artistic practices. The curriculum at NMU is designed to ensure that students develop both technical proficiency and conceptual understanding, preparing them for careers that require both hands-on craftsmanship and innovative design thinking. Additionally, NMU’s accreditation by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools adds an extra layer of prestige to its programs, assuring students of a high standard of education.

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (UMass Dartmouth) also stands out as a top institution for furniture design, offering a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Artisanry Wood/Furniture Design. This advanced program is tailored for students who wish to explore furniture design as both an art form and a functional craft. The MFA program at UMass Dartmouth challenges students to reimagine traditional furniture-making techniques within a contemporary context. It encourages innovation while respecting the deep historical roots of the craft. Students are expected to critically examine the role of furniture in daily life and explore new ways of blending art, design, and functionality. The program is particularly noted for fostering a deep sense of creativity, with students encouraged to push the boundaries of what furniture can be. The curriculum is rigorous, with students learning advanced woodworking and design techniques, as well as theory, aesthetics, and history. UMass Dartmouth is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier institution for higher education in the arts.

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) offers a highly regarded Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Furniture Design through the Herron School of Art and Design. The Herron School has a distinguished reputation, and its inclusion in the U.S. News and World Report’s 2011 edition of America's Best Graduate Schools ranked it among the top 50 Master of Fine Arts programs in the country. The BFA in Furniture Design is structured to not only teach technical expertise in woodworking and furniture making but also to encourage students to develop their unique design aesthetic. The program is designed to challenge students both creatively and technically, helping them cultivate a distinct voice as designers while also gaining practical skills in materials, manufacturing processes, and ergonomic considerations. At Herron, students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and a curriculum that balances both design theory and hands-on practice. The program’s emphasis on individual design development and creative thinking prepares graduates for careers as innovative furniture designers, whether they pursue work with design firms, start their own businesses, or work as independent artists. Herron School’s reputation and faculty expertise provide students with the tools they need to succeed in the highly competitive field of furniture design.

In the United Kingdom, London Metropolitan University offers an exceptional MA in Furniture Design. This program is designed for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree in design and possess a strong design portfolio. The course is highly flexible, with the option to complete the program full-time in one year or part-time over two years. The MA Furniture Design program at London Metropolitan University focuses on developing students' skills in design, craftsmanship, and concept development. The course includes seven core modules, live project work, and design report development, allowing students to engage directly with industry professionals and real-world projects. The university's location in London, one of the world’s most important design capitals, provides students with unique opportunities to interact with leading designers, attend exhibitions, and gain exposure to cutting-edge trends in furniture design. London Metropolitan University is a fully recognized state university in the UK, offering students a world-class education with a strong practical component. The program’s flexibility, industry connections, and strong emphasis on creativity make it an excellent choice for those looking to pursue an advanced degree in furniture design.

Another prominent institution in the UK is Kingston University London, which offers a BA (Hons) in Product and Furniture Design. The program combines elements of traditional furniture design with modern product design techniques, preparing students for careers that require both aesthetic sensitivity and technical skill. The curriculum at Kingston covers a broad range of topics, including design and making skills, materials, manufacturing technology, digital skills, and business studies for design. This diverse approach ensures that students are not only skilled in designing and making furniture but also equipped with the knowledge to succeed in the business side of design, such as marketing, branding, and product development. Kingston University is known for its close ties to the design industry, and students are encouraged to engage with professionals and collaborate on live projects throughout their studies. The university’s reputation for attracting high numbers of applicants—more than any other university in London in 2009—demonstrates its appeal to prospective design students. Kingston’s emphasis on industry engagement and its balanced curriculum make it an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded education in furniture and product design.

Each of these institutions provides a distinct approach to furniture design education, ensuring that students are well-equipped to enter a rapidly evolving industry. Whether pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies, students are exposed to a rigorous blend of theoretical learning, hands-on practice, and industry engagement, all of which are essential for developing as innovative designers in the field. Northern Michigan University’s focus on woodworking and craftsmanship, UMass Dartmouth’s commitment to contemporary design exploration, Herron School’s creative and technical approach, London Metropolitan University’s flexibility and industry exposure, and Kingston University’s blend of design and business skills all offer unique and valuable opportunities for aspiring furniture designers. These programs ensure that graduates are well-prepared to create furniture that is not only functional but also artistically expressive and aligned with modern trends and technologies in design.