WHATEVER GOOD THINGS WE BUILD, END UP BUILDING US
WHATEVER GOOD THINGS WE BUILD, END UP BUILDING US
YEAR ONE
This course is specifically designed to introduce the student to all aspects of the skills required as a professional designer, and to engender a working knowledge of the principles and practice of these skills. Illustrated lectures, field trips and hands-on projects provide the basis for studio-orientated design. The course is geared towards the practical application of analytical, technical and creative skills in simulated and real projects.
DESIGN
An introduction to domestic, commercial and retail interior design and its relationship to other building and design disciplines, thereby exploring exercises in space, form, colour, line, texture, scale, balance, and rhythm with emphasis on the organisation of elements in planar and spatial combinations. This course covers the design and manipulation of floor, wall and ceiling planes, as well as the furnishing of spaces. Colour theory, lighting and detailed design form part of the first year course.
TECHNICAL DRAWING
Preparation and execution of drawings consisting of a basic set of architectural drawings; plans, sections, elevations, details , etc.
PRESENTATION DRAWING
Students are taught to professionally render 2 + 3D drawings and perspectives using a variety of presentation materials; pencil, aquarelle, watercolour and coloured markers. This course includes graphic and visual presentation techniques.
COMPUTER SKILLS
An instruction in the skills and techniques needed for both AutoCAD and SketchUp, 2D + 3D drawing and Photoshop.
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION + SITE VISITS
An outline of building methods and elements of domestic architecture in order to empower the student to understand the structural components of a specific building.
TEXTILE/SURFACE DESIGN
Instruction in the techniques of creating patterns; abstract, stylised and realistic and in the art and understanding of digital printing.
THE HISTORY OF INTERIORS + ARCHITECTURE
Beginning with Ancient Egypt and closing with Neo Classism. This subject traces the major movements in architecture, interior and product design, focusing on the analysis of work by significant architects and interior designers.
PRODUCT DESIGN
An exciting part of the design syllabus encompasses the design and execution of 3D functional objects; lights, repurposing/upcycling objects, acrylic utility boxes, etc.
MODEL MAKING
Students are taught basic model-making skills and the use of various materials, which are then applied to the making of concept and working presentation models.
PORTFOLIO PREPERATON
Individual portfolios are reviewed and evaluated by in-house lecturers and industry professionals throughout the year.
INDUSTRY VISITS
Students are accompanied on various outings, the likes of fabric houses, furniture and product showrooms to expose them to the design industry broadly.
YEAR TWO + THREE
These courses are an extension of the first year course, with the transition being made from the broader aspects of interior design to more specific practical projects. In the second year, greater emphasis is placed on the technical component of design. This course also deals with the relationships between the various specialists and professionals involved in the design industry; architects, engineers, interior designers, lighting consultants and specialist contractors, etc. The importance of a healthy client/designer relationship is stressed with the emphasis on programmatic problem solving.
DESIGN
Advanced studio programmes addressing the design of both small and large multi-use spaces, encompassing residential, retail and commercial design. The design emphasis will be placed on the ability to conceptualise, plan, detail, programme, specify and present both academic and client briefed collaborations professionally.
COLLABORATIONS
Students engage in real projects brought to our studios by clients or design professionals.
NATIONAL DESIGN COMPETITIONS
A wide range of national student competitions are worked into our syllabus. These competitions challenge product, interior and architectural solutions. These competitions offer the student(s) the opportunity of mixing with industry leaders as well as being the opportunity of exposure on said social media platforms.
THE HISTORY OF INTERIORS + ARCHITECTURE
Beginning with the Industrial Revolution and closing with African Design. This subject traces the major movements in architecture, interior and product design, focusing on the analysis of work by significant architects and interior designers.
TECHNICAL DRAWING + BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
This subject deals with the market availability and application of building materials. Students complete detailed working drawing packages in order to meet industry requirements and aesthetic criteria as per the given brief. While first year focuses on the understanding of basic building components and structure, second year addresses the ability to make design changes to an existing structure and present this in the form of a project that meets a potential brief/client(s) requirements. This course also addresses the design of detailed components within interior spaces; staircases, wall cladding, etc.
3D MODELLING + RENDERING
Students explore the advantages of advanced 3D modelmaking and master the 3D rendering programmes; Enscape and Revit, which enhances their models into photo realistic professional renders. These modelled renders play a vital role in client presentations, virtual walkthroughs and national student competition entries.
PHOTOGRAPHY
A practical exploration into the basic techniques of digital photography as a tool for the designer.
LAW COURSE
An introduction and course outlining the law of contract and copyright delivered by a practicing attorney.
WORK EXPERIENCE/INDUSTRY INTERNSHIPS
Students are required to job-shadow in design/architectural studios to expose them to various design environments. Specific design studios are selected to meet each students strengths and skill set. This programme builds confidence and sets up potential opportunities for future work, and exposes the student to the world of professional practice.
PORTFOLIO/CV PRESENTATION + CAREER PREPARATION
This course is designed to provide a robust and efficient development of each student’s skill set, which is then applied and showcased in their final printed industry driven portfolios.
A recruitment industry professional delivers a succinct course in the art of CV writing and job preparation within the vibrant interior design/architectural industry. This course prepares the student to enter the working world confidently, armed with a beautiful professional portfolio that is strong in both skill set and graphic presentation.