Unit Aim
The aim of this unit is to provide Learners with knowledge, understanding and skills in furniture design with a focus on historical evolution, conceptualisation, technical drawing, materials and fabrication techniques. Learners develop creative and functional furniture solutions through sketching, digital modelling, prototyping and final execution. Emphasis is placed on ergonomics, aesthetics, sustainability and structural integrity. This unit culminates in a hands-on project and presentation, fostering industry-ready skills in furniture design and production.
Unit Content
Know the historical evolution and role of furniture in design.
Introduction to furniture design
Historical evolution and styles of furniture design
Role of furniture in interior and spatial design
Key considerations: ergonomics, aesthetics and function
Be able to generate and visualise furniture concepts using sketches and digital tools.
Conceptualisation and visualisation
Ideation and sketching techniques for furniture design
Digital visualisation tools (sketchup, rhino, autocad, etc.)
Rendering and presentation techniques
Be able to develop user-centered furniture design solutions.
Furniture planning and design process
Developing design briefs and user-centred solutions
creating plan and concept models of furniture
material and structural considerations in design
Be able to create technical drawings and accurate cutting lists.
Technical drawing and cutting list preparation
Orthographic, isometric and exploded views of furniture
creating accurate cutting lists for fabrication
annotation, detailing, and dimensioning for production
Be able to select appropriate materials and apply joinery techniques.
Materials and joinery techniques
Properties and selection of wood, metal, plastic, and composites
traditional and modern joinery methods
sustainable and innovative material applications
Be able to build prototypes using various fabrication methods.
Prototyping and model-making
Small-scale and full-scale model fabrication
Techniques in CNC cutting, laser cutting, and handcrafting
Testing, refining, and modifying prototypes
Be able to fabricate furniture pieces using appropriate construction techniques, surface treatments, and quality control methods.
Creation of furniture pieces
Fabrication processes: cutting, shaping, assembling, and finishing
Application of coatings, upholstery, and surface treatments
Quality control and structural integrity testing
Be able to execute, document and present a complete furniture project.
Developing a complete furniture piece from concept to execution
Documentation and portfolio preparation
Exhibition and critique of final projects
