Competency Based Qualification

Space Planning

Certificate in Interior Design (KNQF)

Unit Aim

This unit aims to provide Learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills of the fundamental concepts and methodologies essential for effective space planning in residential and commercial environments. This unit covers the principles, processes and tools used in creating optimised spatial layouts and focuses on understanding client needs, regulatory requirements and environmental considerations that influence spatial design decisions.

Unit Content

Know the principles of space planning and the importance of effective space planning in interior design

Definition and scope of space planning

Importance of effective space planning in interior design

Historical evolution of space planning concepts

Principles of Space Planning

Ergonomics and human factors in spatial design

Spatial efficiency and optimisation

Flexibility and adaptability in space layouts

Know the space planning process

The space planning process

Client consultation and brief development

Site analysis and space inventory

Concept development and design iterations

Able to apply ergonomic principles to optimise spatial layouts for residential and commercial spaces.

Ergonomic principles to optimise spatial layouts

Residential space planning: design considerations for residential interiors; functional zoning and circulation in homes; balancing aesthetics and practicality in home layouts

Commercial space planning: workplace strategies and spatial trends; open-plan vs. enclosed office

layouts; planning for collaboration, amenities and user flow

Be able to integrate aesthetic considerations with functional requirements in space planning.

Aesthetic considerations

Functional requirements

Know the regulatory standards and environmental considerations in space planning projects.

Environmental and regulatory considerations in interior design

Building codes and regulations affecting space planning

Sustainability and green building principles

Health, safety and accessibility standards

Be able to utilise digital tools and techniques for design visualisation and presentation.

Space planning tools and techniques

CAD software and digital planning tools

Physical mock-ups, models, and virtual reality

Budgeting and cost estimation in space planning

Recommended Text

Alternative Reading

Ching, F. D. K., & Binggeli, C. (2018). Interior Design Illustrated (4th ed.). Wiley.

Kilmer, R., & Kilmer, W. O. (2021). Construction Drawings and Details for Interiors (3rd ed.). Wiley.

Piotrowski, C. M. (2020). Professional Practice for Interior Designers (6th ed.). Wiley.

Reznikoff, S. C. (2018). Interior Graphic Standards (2nd ed.). Wiley.

Zeisel, J. (2022). Inquiry by Design: Environment/Behavior/Neuroscience in Architecture, Interiors, Landscape, and Planning (2nd ed.). W. W. Norton & Company.

Smith, C. B. (2019). The Fundamentals of Interior Design (3rd ed.). Bloomsbury Visual Arts.