DSGN08069 2019 Interior Architecture Studio VI: Thesis Part II

Generate a complex and comprehensive interior design in response to a design brief that responds creatively, constructively and ethically to user needs and human behaviour.

Realise the design of a complex interior at a detailed level, providing aesthetically and sustainably for the comfort, health, safety and welfare of its users, integrating appropriate materials, lighting, mechanical and electrical systems and complying with relevant building regulations and codes.

Demonstrate innovative appropriation and mastery of analogue and digital visualization techniques in the communication of design intentions and perceptual qualities (including colour, light, materials and furnishings) at all stages of the design and realization of a comprehensive interior design proposal.

Prepare and manage a competent set of drawings, schedules, and specifications as an integrated system of contractual documents, appropriate to the size and scope of the student design project.

Demonstrate critical and imaginative engagement with conceptual, and functional  ideas in the resolution of a complex design problem.

Discuss, justify and reflect on a student design project, its conceptual and contextual framework and design resolution.

Demonstrate the ability to respond to personal strengths and needs, exercise autonomy and good working practices, manage personal learning and meet deadlines.

Communicate, contribute and negotiate in design decisions in cooperation with third parties.

Generate a complex and comprehensive interior design in response to a design brief that responds creatively, constructively and ethically to the cultural, social and environmental context of the design.

Compose and communicate an articulate and focused exhibition presentation using appropriate graphic and written modes.

During this semester, students develop and consolidate their design thesis project. Design tutorials, peer learning and critical reviews are key modes of learning in the design studio. The module  is delivered using a combination of lectures and group tutorials, from a ‘live’/streamed design studio in which both on-site and distance participants can see both each other and the work under discussion. This flexible mode allows both staff and students to interact in small study groups, with the freedom for interaction either on- site or from a distance.  Through discussion, critical evaluation and reflection, the student develops a theoretical and conceptual framework for their design. Our teaching utilises a student-centred pedagogic approach which promotes personal, reflective and active engagement with learning and fosters confidence and competence in the communication of ideas.  Clearly defined learning outcomes are constructively aligned with assessment criteria, including the set of transferable skills and mental abilities which the student designer must have entering the workforce.

Assessment during the semester is formative, with (i) tutorials which focus on discrete aspects of the learning outcomes pertinent to the design phase, and (ii) periodic design presentations and reviews for which students present their entire developing designs.

Short lectures (linked to the learning outcomes) introduce students to related requirements, knowledge and methods of achieving these outcomes. These lectures and related tasks build on the students’ prior knowledge from earlier years.

90% of summative assessment is at the end of the semester with all outcomes embodied within the design thesis which is presented both graphically and in an accompanying design statement. 

Students that do not pass this module must repeat attend.

This module is the second stage of a comprehensive design project:

Group and individual feedback and tutorials, lecturers,  peer forums and seminars with  professionals from the design and related professions, support the students as they complete/ accomplish the following:

• design development from sketch design to detailed design;
• final presentation drawings and models;
• technical drawings and specifications;
• a design report and justification.