The first module is an introduction to the creative and exciting world of interior design.
You will be introduced to the elements and principles of design that are used to create harmonious and balanced interiors.
• Learn how to observe, evaluate and form opinions of different design styles by analysing interior spaces.
• Develop your ‘designer’s eye’ and understand how to apply the knowledge and create inspirational designs for home and work environments.
Getting Started
Welcome To IDI!
How To Use Our Course
Modules
What Is Interior Design?
Quotes We Love
Philosophy Of Interior Design
The Visual Language Of Design
Understanding Design Theory
Elements Of Interior Design
Space
Line
Shape
Colour
Texture
Light
Pattern
Principles Of Design
Balance
Rhythm
Emphasis
Proportion And Scale
Harmony
This comprehensive module takes you on a fascinating journey, beginning with the origins of decorative finishes seen in cave paintings and ancient dwellings and leads you through the history of design and architecture to the present day.
Full of visual images and information, Module 2 will convey the meanings and messages behind the styles and decorative images you encounter.
• Learn to recognise architectural and decorative details influenced by ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian architecture, Neo-Classicism and more recent design styles.
• Incorporate these ideas into your designs, adding originality and creativity to your work.
• Gain an appreciation of art and design history and how it will continue to be an influence both in the present and the future.
Introduction to History of Style, Decoration and Architecture
What is Design History? Why Learn Design History? About this Design History Classical Ancient Greece (1000–100 BC) Ancient Rome (500 BC–500 AD) Byzantine (500–1500) Moorish (700–1500) Romanesque (800–1200) Gothic (1150–1400) Renaissance (1400–1600) Baroque (1590–1725) Rococo (1715–90) Neoclassical (1714–1850) Palladianism – Britain (1715–1800) Georgian / Colonial – Outside Of Britain (1714–1830) Federal – USA (1780–1830) Greek Revival – Britain (1790–1850), USA (1830–60) Furniture Designers Empire – France (1799–15) Industrial Revolution (1760s–1850s) Victorian (1837–1901) Gothic Revival Italianate Queen Anne Victorian Interiors and Furniture Arts and Crafts Movement (1870–1910) Art Nouveau (1880s–1914) Art Deco French Art Deco (1920–39) American Art Deco (1925–39) Art Deco Around the World Modernism (1917–33) De Stijl (1917–31) Bauhaus (1919–33) Le Corbusier The International Style (1930s–70s) Post-World War II / Mid-Century Modern (1940s–60s) Pop (1960s–70s) Postmodernism (1970s–90s) Minimalism (1990s to Today) Contemporary Sustainable Architecture and Design Sustainability in Design HistoryIn this module, you will learn how to make strategic and conceptual decisions for your design projects based on the desired function, style and mood of the space.
• Explore some of the most common interior decorating styles, including traditional, country, eclectic and contemporary.
• Develop your knowledge of different structures, common problems and solutions so that you can communicate clearly with clients, suppliers and tradespeople.
• Evaluate a site and assess existing structures in order to create a master plan and implement your ideas.
• Discover how to keep informed of trends and how to look for trend inspiration.
• Learn how to visually present ideas to your client by creating a mood board.
The Design Process
Concept Development
Applying The Concept To The Design
Trends
Colour Trends
Types Of Interior Design Styles
African
American Southwestern
Art Deco
Art Nouveau
Arts And Crafts
Belgian Minimalism
Bohemian
British Colonial
Brutalism
Californian Cool
Country
Eclectic
French Provincial
Gothic
Hamptons
Industrial
Japandi
Japanese
Maximalism
Mediterranean
Mid-Century Modern
Minimalism
Modern Australian
Modern Farmhouse
Modern Victorian
Moroccan
Retro
Scandinavian
Shabby Chic
Traditional
Transitional
Tropical
Urban Chic
Wabi-Sabi
Considering The Site
Building An Aesthetic Plan
Visual Communication
Elements Of 2D Visual Communication
Design Principles For 2D Visual Communication
Composition
Analysing A Sample Board Layout
How To Visually Present Ideas To Your Client
Concept Boards
Mood Boards
Sample Boards
Material Boards
Software And Tips For Creating Boards
Now you will discover how to apply the design elements to your spatial planning and design concepts, considering different furniture layouts to suit the intended function of the space.
• Learn how to draw a floor plan, rearrange an existing space and plan a new layout for a renovation project.
• Study the different architectural elements that will be included in your floor plan, such as doors, windows, fireplaces and lighting fixtures.
• Become familiar with the functionality of different rooms and understand the role that furniture plays in the design process.
• Extend this project in subsequent assignments and develop a lighting plan, colour scheme and finishes.
• Build your first professional portfolio as you complete these exercises.
Space Planning And Proportion
Furniture Layouts
The Next Step In Space Planning
Styling An Existing Room
Living Room
Kitchen Design
Bathroom Design
Residential Building Design
Energy Efficiency
Orientation
Parts Of A Residential Building
Floor Plans
What Is A Floor Plan?
Parts Of The Floor Plan
Scale
Symbols
Abbreviations
Spatial Planning
This module will enable you to discover the sources and properties of light, types of lighting and how the orientation of a space affects natural lighting.
• Learn how light affects the selection of colours on different surfaces, finishes and fabrics.
• Understand how to communicate your ideas clearly to electricians, builders and suppliers by specifying the correct products suitable for the intended purpose.
• Learn the various types of light bulbs available to interior designers and how to select the right one for a client’s room.
• Turn your creative vision into reality by using natural and artificial lighting to create a stunning effect in your interior design projects.
• Incorporate these ideas into your plan as you continue with the renovation project that started in Module 4.
Lighting
Light And How We See
Colour Properties Of Light
Colour Temperature
Colour Rendering
Natural Light
Evaluating Natural Light Levels
Artificial Light
Sources Of Artificial Light
Site Analysis
Mounting Options
Types Of Light Fittings
Light Levels
How Light Is Measured
Designing With Light
Types Of Artificial Light
Lighting Design
Lighting The Home
The Front Door
Entrance And Hallway
Living Rooms
Kitchen
Dining Room
Bedrooms
Bathrooms
Stairs
Exterior Light Fittings
Electrical, Lighting And Home Technology
The Smart House
Communicating With Your Builder
Lighting And Electrical Plans
Power Outlets
Symbols Used To Create A Reflected Ceiling Plan
Lighting Symbols
This module will introduce you to the power and psychology of colour and how it can be used as a pivotal design tool in your projects.
• Learn about the properties of colour and understand how it can change the mood of a space, alter perceptions and create the intended style. Discover the effect of natural and artificial light on colour and surface textures.
• Use the colour wheel as inspiration and guidance to develop harmonious schemes and gain the confidence to use it effectively. Discover that there are no bad colours, only bad combinations.
• Experience the power of using colour in all aspects of your design projects to trigger different responses, such as vibrant and uplifting or muted and restful.
• Familiarise yourself with paint systems, products and specifications.
• Put together multiple colour schemes to accompany the renovation project from Module 4.
Introduction to Colour
Importance of Colour in Interior Design
Colour and Light
How We Perceive Colour
The Importance of Light in Colour Perception
How Light Affects Colour Perception
Understanding Colour Theory
Colour Mixing Systems
The Human Eye and Colour Perception
The Colour Wheel
Properties of Colour
Hue
Tint
Shade
Tone
Chroma (Intensity)
Colour Temperature
Colour Undertone
How Design Elements Interrelate
Guidelines for Using Colour
Creating Successful Colour Schemes
Incorporating Wallpaper in Design
Colour Psychology & Symbolism
Emotional Effect of Colours
Psychology Behind Specific Colours
Chakra Colours and Their Use in Design
Historical and Cultural Significance of Colour
Colour Symbolism Across Cultures
Colour Harmony Groups
Achromatic
Accented Achromatic
Analogous
Accented Analogous
Clash
Complementary
Split Complementary
Double Split Complementary
Monochromatic
Tetrad
Triadic
Planning Colour Schemes
Flooring and Surfaces
Mastering Colour Communication
Working with Colour Libraries
Paint and Surface Treatments
Exterior Colour
Paint Sheen Types
Wallpaper
Specialty Paint Finishes
Timber Treatments
Visualising Colour Schemes
Trends
Project Preparation
Paint Specification
Project Planning
Painters and Contractors
You will learn how to apply the concepts of three-dimensional design to the reality of a finished space.
• Discover the importance of ensuring quality finishes on the floor, walls and ceiling to create a striking and functional backdrop for furnishings and window treatments.
• Gain the product knowledge required to select and specify cost-effective finishes suitable for the intended end use to create a professional and enduring interior space.
• Find out how to plan and project manage the sequence of floor, wall and ceiling finishes required at different stages of a project.
• Create finish schedules for each room from the renovation project that began in Module 4.
Wall Finishes
Walls
Coatings
Veneers
Cladding
Mirrors
Wainscoting
Flooring Materials
Hard Flooring Surfaces
Natural Stone Products
Manmade Products
Soft Flooring Surfaces
Carpet Construction
Ceilings
Decorative Details
Plaster Details
Windows And Glass
Door Hardware
Kitchen, Bathroom And Laundry Finishes
Benchtops
Natural Stone Options
Solid Surfaces
Composite Stone
Wood Products
Splashbacks And Walls
Cabinets
Acoustics
Upholstered Panels
Environmentally Sustainable Design
Choosing Sustainable Materials
Enhance Indoor Environmental Quality
Minimising Waste
Specifications
Tips For Creating A Successful Design
Specifications For A Design Project
Lighting Schedule
This informative module introduces you to the history, beauty and luxury of decorative textiles and fabrics.
You will be shown how to appreciate the importance of including items with luxurious and aesthetic appeal as essential components in your design, regardless of the available budget.
• Discover the endless possibilities for using fabrics with style and flair to create eye-catching interior spaces. Gain the confidence needed to apply the elements of design and transform spaces by using textiles, fabrics and other decorative accessories.
• Learn about the technical properties of fabrics and their suitability for different end uses. Understand the functional and aesthetic properties required for bed linen, rugs and decorative textiles.
• Create fabric selections for each room from the renovation project that began in Module 4.
A Brief History Of Textiles
Textile Science
Fabrics
Decorative Textiles
Patterns And Prints
A Guide To Mixing Patterns
Choosing Fabrics For Interior Design
Fabric Compositions
Upholstery-Weight Fabrics
Curtain-Weight Fabrics
Eco-Friendly And Organic Fabrics
Window Furnishings
Specifying Fabrics
Fabric Abbreviations
The pinnacle of great design is working with beautiful objects, furniture and art. With reference to Module 2 and the history of interior design, you will learn how furniture styles have been developed over the years for specific uses and applications.
• Apply your knowledge of design elements to the reality of placing beautiful objects into perfectly planned and well thought out spaces.
• Experience the sense of achievement when your space planning and elevations come to life.
• Showcase your creative potential with coordinated, harmonious interiors.
• Create the complete decor scheme for each room from the renovation project in Module 4.
Furniture
History, Period & Contemporary Pieces
Upholstered Furniture
The Technical Side Of Upholstered Furniture
Applying The Elements & Principles Of Design
Specifying A New Piece
Furniture Safety
Art
Sculpture
Screens
Photography
Accessories
Area Rugs
Unique Rug Styles
This module teaches you the work practices of professional designers. You will be shown the vital procedures and thought processes that bring a design to completion in the real world.
• Learn how to support your creative knowledge with the practical application that ensures success from the start of a project through to completion.
• Ensure that your proposals and management skills will bring work in on schedule and budget for any design project, whether for yourself or for a client.
• Gain the confidence needed to work professionally in the design industry.
The Home Is Where The Heart Is
Reasons For Using An Interior Designer
Building Relationships With Clients
Fee Structures
Talking About Money
Furniture Directory
Pricing Guideline
Paperwork
File Organisation
Quotations
Agreements
Useful Programs
The Design Process
How To Approach A Design Project
Phase 1 - Discover
Phase 2 - Plan
Phase 3 - Implement
In this module, you will be taught how to document your ideas and designs for clients, contractors and your own reference.
• Learn how to easily create a three-dimensional drawing from floor plans to help visualise the space and make more informed design choices.
• Find out how these drawings can help you win business and then manage the design process.
• Support your documentation with a clear set of drawings to ensure your ideas are interpreted correctly.
• Experience the pleasure of seeing your design concepts spring to life as projects are completed.
• Get creative and prepare a materials board with real samples for a kitchen fit out.
Communicating Accurately
Things to Consider
The Design Brief
Drawing: Its Relationship to Your Work
Imagining Colour
Developing a Concept
Essential Drafting Tools
Drawing Tools
Paper and Pads
Pencils and Erasers
Markers and Pens
Colour Pencils
Wax-Based Colour Pencils
Additional Tools
Digital Tools (Optional)
Paper Selection for Interior Designers
Joinery
Custom-Made Joinery Drawings
Joinery Construction
Cabinetry Materials
Fittings and Accessories
Furniture Hardware
Specifications
Joinery Working Drawings
Joinery Design Checklist
Design and Specification
Cabinetry Design
Maximising Storage
Cabinetry Sizes
Wardrobe Specifications
Orthographic Drawings
Interior Elevations
Drawing an Interior Elevation
Sections
Additional Drawings
Axonometric Drawings
Technical Drawing
Detailing Specifications
Symbols
Title Block
Types of Symbols
Adding Details
Dimensions
Rendering
Sketching
Perspective Drawings
One-Point Perspective
Two-Point Perspective
Glossary
How to Draw One-Point Perspectives
How to Visually Present Ideas to Your Client
Material Boards
Layout
Construction
If you are considering making design your career, this may be the decisive chapter that is the stepping stone to your future success.
• See yourself in the context of the design industry.
• Take professional advice from outstanding business consultants who work with creative, respected and successful interior designers.
• Benefit from this valuable information regarding business development, business practice and market positioning.
• Learn how to put together a professional portfolio and receive an insight on setting up your own website and social media networks.
Getting Started
Setting Up An Office
Home Office
Hiring Office Space
Designing Your Office
Space Planning
Drawing Your Plan
Consider Branding
Lighting
Technological Requirements
Ergonomic Check List For Your Office
Desk Height
Sit & Stand Desk Options
Desktop Layout
Setting Up Your Business
Business Plan
Business Branding
Business Name And Logo
Website
Business Expenses
Finding Clients
Word Of Mouth
Social Media
Website
Trade Discounts
Email Marketing
Direct Mail
Press Advertising
The Headline
Getting The Tone Right
Public Relations
Interior Design Career Paths
What You Need When Applying For Work
Skills
Resumes
Cover Letter
Portfolio
How To Make A Portfolio
Finding Work In The Field