Faculty

Profile

Cotter Christian is the Dean of the School of Constructed Environments and Associate Professor of Interior Design at Parsons School of Design, and co-host of Decorated, a podcast about culture Interior Design, and Decoration. Previously Associate Dean and Director of the BFA Interior Design program at Parsons, he holds an MFA from Georgia State University, an MA from SCAD, and a BA in Theatre from Marymount Manhattan College. His research explores the intersections of contemplative pedagogy, mindfulness, and design education, examining how these practices foster creativity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and engagement with social and environmental justice issues. Cotter advocates for an inclusive curriculum that nurtures curiosity alongside beauty and joy, equipping designers to explore boldly and practice with ethical intention. His teaching is informed by transformative pedagogical frameworks, with a consistent focus on bridging institutional structures with more humane, flexible approaches to learning. He lives in Jackson Heights, Queens with his partner and their agoraphobic rescue dog, Eleanor.

Degrees Held

MFA, Studio Art, Georgia State University

MA, Interior Design, Savannah College of Art and Design

BA, Theatre, Marymount Manhattan College

Research Interests

Contemplative pedagogy, mindfulness, design education, inclusive curriculum, interior design