Sandra Olave

Sandra Olave is the Chair of the Interior Design Department and an Associate Professor at the College for Creative Studies (CCS). She has held these roles for 15 years, leading the department in accreditation, sponsor projects, and pedagogical advancements.

Education Background:

• MFA in Color and Materials Design, College for Creative Studies
• Post-graduate Degree, Elisava-Universidad Politecnica de Catalunya
• Post-graduate Degree, LAI, Escola de Disseny Interior Design
• Universidad Autonoma del Caribe

Her research focuses on how physical environments and materials impact human perception and quality of life. She explores the emotional responses evoked by design elements and emphasizes sustainable, human-centered approaches. Additionally, she is dedicated to advancing educational pedagogy to prepare students for industry trends through innovative curriculum development.

Awards and Recognition:

• IES award of merit
• Edwin F. Guth Memorial Award for Interior Lighting Design FNB Lobby
• Outstanding Graduate Distinction Award, Mario Ceballos Araujo

In her role, Olave has collaborated with organizations like Quicken Loans, Ford, and the Henry Ford Cancer Institute, providing students with real-world experiences. Under her leadership, the department achieved CIDA accreditations in 2010 and 2016, ensuring program excellence.

Her leadership in the Interior Design Department at CCS fosters a collaborative environment focused on industry readiness and innovative design solutions.