Unit Aim
The aim of this unit is to provide Learners with knowledge, understanding and skills in interior design concepts through a hands-on studio approach. This unit focuses on human-centred design, emphasising anthropometrics, ergonomics and spatial planning. Learners explore design principles, elements and techniques to create functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces. Through practical exercises, drawing techniques and studio projects, Learners develop spatial awareness, furniture layout skills and an understanding of lighting, colour theory and material selection.
Unit Content
Know design principles such as balance, proportion and contrast in interior spaces.
Historical evolution and significance of interior design
Overview of current trends and styles in interior design
Introduction to human-centred design principle
Principles of design
Balance, harmony and proportion in interior layouts
Exploring rhythm, emphasis, and contrast in space planning
Applying scale and hierarchy to design compositions
Be able to utilise anthropometric and ergonomic data in space planning and furniture arrangement.
Anthropometrics and ergonomics
Ergonomic principles in design
Anthropometrics in furniture layout and selection
Design and arrangement of ergonomic furniture
Human figure and spatial awareness
Understanding human proportions in design
Application of anthropometrics in interior spaces
Ergonomic considerations for user comfort and functionality
Integration of functionality, aesthetics and user experience
Be able to develop spatial layouts that prioritise functionality, aesthetics and user comfort.
Principles of spatial planning
Space planning and interior layouts
Fundamentals of space utilisation and zoning
Understanding circulation and movement patterns
Functional planning for different interior spaces
Aesthetic considerations
User comfort and wellbeing: application of ergonomic and anthropometric data
Sketching and digital tools for layout development
Be able to demonstrate proficiency in freehand sketching, technical drawing and digital tools for interior design.
Freehand sketching techniques
Technical drawing skills
Sketching and technical drawing for interior spaces
Digital drawing and design tools
One-point, two-point and three-point perspective techniques
Freehand and digital representation of design concepts
Integration and application: choosing the appropriate method (freehand, technical, or digital) for
different stages of the design process
Know the psychological and visual impact of colour, lighting and materials in interior spaces.
Elements of interior design
Study of line, shape, form and texture in interior spaces
Colour theory and psychology
Types of lighting: ambient, task, accent and decorative
Natural vs artificial lighting and their effects on interior spaces
Exploring colour theory and its psychological impact
Materials and surface finishes: visual and tactile qualities of materials (e.g. texture, reflectivity,
warmth); psychological associations of materials (e.g. wood = warmth, metal = modernity)
Patterns, ornamentation and material selection in design
Integration in interior design; coordinating colour, lighting and materials for cohesive design
Be able to create conceptual mood boards and design presentations based on client needs.
Understanding client needs; interpreting client briefs and identifying key requirements; gathering
information on client preferences, lifestyle and functional needs; translating client input into visual and
conceptual direction
Concept development; generating initial design ideas and themes; developing a coherent design
narrative or concept
Creating mood boards and sample palettes; purpose and role of mood boards in the design process;
selecting and curating images, textures, colours and materials; digital and physical mood board
techniques
Be able to execute small-scale studio projects that integrate human-centred design solutions.
Application of design principles in a studio project
Developing concept boards, mood boards and presentations
Field visit and observational study for real-world application
