HIST06019 2019 Cultural Context: Interior and Furniture

Recognise and discuss the characteristics of Interior Architectural precedents and design theories at an introductory level using written and graphic means.

Present an overview of the characteristics of a seminal work of 20th and 21st century interior architecture and furniture design.

Investigate and debate the impact that major technological and scientific advances have on the fields of Architecture, Interior Architecture and Furniture Design.

Identify key characteristics of the major design periods of the 19th, 20th and 21st century.

Conduct a graphic analysis identifying the historical context of significant international interior architecture and furniture design. 

Cultural Context 1 is taught using a combination of lectures, presentations, theoretical discussion and practical based tutorials. Both individual and group work modes are utilised throughout.

Formative and summative assessment modes use a range of techniques which include individual and group work, mainly including the following:

• development and resolution of graphic and written assignments;

• oral and mixed media presentation;

• class discussion and debate;

• sketchbooks.

Repeat assessment will be dependent on failed components. This will be confirmed at formal exam boards.

The following headings indicate the broad thematic areas to be addressed in the module. Content within the subject is intended to align with the scale, scope and focus of Design Studio.

An Introduction to the History of Interior Architecture and Design: 

• An overview of historical design movements through the ages from Early Civilisations, Classicism,  Middle Ages, Revivalism, The New World, Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco though to modernism.

An Introduction to the contemporary built environment

• Key movements, theories and ideas of 19th, 20th & 21st century Interior architecture & Furniture design;

• Historical overview of the work of 'signature' interior architects and designers to everyday buildings (Case studies);

• Contemporary design in response to changing social, technological, and environmental contexts.

The Impact of Changing Technologies on Architecture, Design, Interiors and Furniture Design:

• An investigation of how industrial and technological innovations and scientific theories impact on design culture;

• The influence of the Industrial Revolution;

• The effects of Modernism on Interior architecture and furniture design;

• The Price of Progress;

• Modern day contemporary design and its cultural expression.

Visits

• Field trip to a major European city, for example Venice Biennale, Visit to Salone del Mobile in Milan, Stockholm furniture fair, Maison de objet.