Diploma of Interior Design Course Outline

Module 1 Visual Language of Interior Design

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

Module 2 History of Style, Decoration and Architecture

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 History

Module 3 Design Styles

In 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

Module 4 Space Planning

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

Module 5 Lighting

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

Module 6 Colour

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

Module 7 Interior Finishes

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

Module 8 Decorative Textiles and Fabrics

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

Module 9 Furniture, Art and Accessories

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

Module 10 Working With Clients

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

Module 11 Visual Communication

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

Module 12 Setting Up an Interior Design Business

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

 

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