Jennifer Webb

Jennifer Webb is an Associate Professor of Interior Design at the University of Arkansas, Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design. She specializes in person-environment fit, focusing on inclusive design for marginalized populations, particularly older adults and individuals with disabilities. Her research addresses equitable housing policies, social justice frameworks in design, and sensory/experiential dimensions of built environments. Dr. Webb has led interdisciplinary initiatives like the Arkansas Health and Housing Survey and co-developed the Diversity and Design course, integrating humanities perspectives into design education.

Education: Ph.D. in Human Environmental Sciences (Oklahoma State University, 1999), M.S. and B.S. in Interior Design (University of Tennessee, 1995/1989). Her doctoral work explored interpersonal distances in late adulthood.

Research interests emphasize disability advocacy, universal design, and the intersection of aesthetics with social equity. Recent projects include a forthcoming book on Aesthetics of Social Justice and editing the 2020 Journal of Interior Design special issue on marginalization in interiors.

Teaching focuses on third-year professional studios, construction documentation, and environment-behavior relationships. She has taught in the U.S. and Europe, prioritizing global design perspectives. Awards include the 2010 Joel Polsky Prize for Just Below the Line and 2019 IDEC Fellowship.

Professional affiliations include serving on the Arkansas State Board of Registered Interior Designers, Interior Design Educators Council, and Journal of Interior Design Board. Credentials include NCIDQ certification and LEED AP status.