DSGN06152 2019 Interior Context and Theory: Understanding Design
The module introduces the design language in practice, and how form, space, light, colour, materials, spatial planning and ergonomics are applied in seminal Interior case studies. The module also examines best practice examples of the design process (theories, methods and procedures).
The module will both familiarise students with seminal current Interior Architects and their work and equip them with techniques for analysing and learning from best practice (and precedents). The module will blend theoretical input with practical written and graphic exercises.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
Examine the use of design language in Interior Architectural precedents using written and graphic means.
Explain the basic tenets of the design process in a reflective graphic design journal.
Utilize a range of graphic and written means to analyse and communicate design qualities and intentions.
Describe the concepts and theories underpinning case studies of best-practice design.
Research, cross reference and cite images and text relating to design.
Teaching and Learning Strategies
Teaching and learning occurs mainly through lectures, tutorials, case study analysis, class discussion, debate, group and individual work.
Module Assessment Strategies
Through the module assessments, students familiarise themselves with design interpretation and analysis, visual methodologies and academic literacy skills .
The assessment strategy focuses on the following :
- Interpretative design research;
- Visual analyses and academic writing;
- Oral and visual presentation;
- Discipline‑specific research.
Repeat Assessments
Repeat assessment will be dependent on failed components. This will be confirmed at formal exam boards.
Indicative Syllabus
The module introduces the design process and language through examining a range of case studies of best practice and seminal contemporary design.
Case studies will be examined in relation to their atmospheric and functional qualities and how these are achieved with design language:
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colour, light texture;
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material qualities;
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form, space and scale;
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spatial planning, ergonomics and circulation.
The module will both familiarise students with seminal current Interior Architects and their work and equip them with techniques for analysing and learning from best practice (and precedents). The module will blend theoretical input with practical written and graphic exercises. Lectures are combined with practical investigations during which students practice skills such as -
- sourcing and citing design information;
- analysing design graphically using diagrams, sketching, painting, collage; writing etc.;
- presenting to peers;
- reflecting upon their own developing design process and skills.
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework Assessment
Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Group Case Study Presentation | Coursework Assessment | Group Project | 25 % | Week 5 | 1,4 |
2 | Design analysis | Project | Essay | 40 % | Week 9 | 1,3,4,5 |
3 | Reflective design process analysis | Coursework Assessment | Individual Project | 35 % | End of Semester | 2,3 |
Full Time Mode Workload
Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Directed Learning | Architectural Studio | Practical, tutorial, workshop | 1 | Weekly | 1.00 |
Lecture | Architectural Studio | Theoretical input | 2 | Weekly | 2.00 |
Independent Learning | Not Specified | Independent learning | 3 | Weekly | 3.00 |
Module Resources
Adler, David, (1999) Metric Handbook: Planning and Design Data, Architectural Press.
Ching, F.D.K, (1996) Architecture, Form, Space, and Order , Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York.
Ching, Francis, D. K , Interior Design Illustrated , Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1987.
Clark, Kenneth, (2005), Civilisation , John Murray.
Gropius, W,(1965), The New Architecture and The Bauhaus, MIT Press.
Lawson, Bryan , How Designers Think , Architectural Press, 2006.
Le Corbusier, (1985) , Towards a New Architecture, Dover Publications.
Malnar, J, M & Vodvarka, F, Interior Dimensions: A Theoretical Approach to Enclosed Space, John Wiley & Sons, 1991.
Palladio, A, (1965), The Four Books of Architecture , Dover Publications; New Ed edition.
Pile, John, F, Colour in Interior Design , McGraw‑Hill, 1997.
Pile, John, F, Interior Design , Harry N Abrams, 1995.
Smith, K. (2012) Introducing Architectural Theory: Debating a Discipline, Routledge, London.
Unwin, S. (2010) Twenty Buildings Every Architect Should Understand, Routledge, London.
Weston, R. (2011) 100 Ideas That Changed Architecture, Laurence King, London.
- Abitare: ISSN: 0001-3218
- Domus: ISSN: 0012-5377.
- ISSN: 1046-1957
- Interior Design: ISSN: 0020-5508.
- Places: Forum of Design for the Public Realm: ISSN: 0731-0455, 2164-7798.
- Arts and Architecture: ISSN: 0730-9481.
- Design Quarterly: ISSN: 0011-9415.
- Frame: ISSN FRAME: 1388-4239
- Grey room: ISSN: 1526-3819, 1536-0105.
- Architectural Digest: ISSN: 0003-8520, 2163-3819.
- Conservation Bulletin: ISSN: 0953-8674.
- Architectural heritage: ISSN: 1350-7524, 1755-1641.
- Wallpaper: ISSN: 1364-4475
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