Module 1: Architectural Technology
With the rapid development of our built environment to cater to a fast growing global population, coupled with greater demands for high quality spaces with greater efficiency, it is important for designers to innovate and seek the best design solutions to cater to the needs of this global demand. This module aims to strengthen participants’ competency in building and construction technologies and detailing which are key in the project drawing documentation. Participants will also have a deeper understanding on statutory requirements including prevailing local building development guidelines, regulations and integrated online submission processes. Their strength and ability in construction detailing will be reinforced and augmented with essential skills in AutoCAD, 3D Max and BIM. In addition, knowledge in MS Excel is valuable in the practice of Spatial Design to support a comprehensive project management process that involves an inseparable relationship between design quality, time, and costs.
Upon completion of the module, participants would be able to deliver better design solutions that demonstrate greater sensitivity and consideration in construction methods and sustainability, as well as be able to gain confidence in managing projects beyond the design process.
Module 2: Industry and User Studies
A global rise in the affluent consumer market has intensified the demand for good design in luxury goods and the built environment. Consumers are educated, well-read and well-travelled, and often demand high quality design solutions that not just look good, but also highly experiential, memorable and emotional. It is critical for designers to look beyond skin-deep issues of aesthetics or functionality, but more importantly, connect with the emotions and aspirations of all users to deliver designs that delight and inspire, and help businesses succeed. This module provides participants with an understanding on the spatial design industry and a foundation on user experience in spatial design. Participants will be armed with the knowledge of industry trends and demands spanning from real estate and architecture to exhibition and interior design. Participants will be equipped with the critical foundation of understanding user experience, including human needs and desires, anthropometry, emotional connections, memories, psychographic analysis, and general consumer studies.
Upon completion of the module, participants would be able to understand the critical considerations of user experience and apply in their design process that would address user needs and experiences, thus delivering better design solutions.
Module 3: Materials
With the depletion of natural resources and a heightened awareness in green building design, designers are moving towards an environmentally responsible approach for their projects. Innovative and sustainable building materials have been developed over the years to reduce our reliance on conventional building materials. This module aims to strengthen participants’ ability in material appreciation and expose them to the diverse palette of available materials in the industry, their evolution since history, and today’s innovation in material technology. Participants will learn about material production processes, their properties and behaviour, and understand the importance of why designers should consider materials right from the beginning of their projects to achieve responsible, sustainable and effective design solutions.
Upon completion of the module, students would have a strong foundation in conventional architectural materials, as well as an insight on innovative materials and their application.
Module 4: Design Business Strategy and Development
This module aims to give participants an understanding of the design business and the planning of design strategies for their own and clients’ businesses. Using a typical project as the basis, participants will learn crucial business know-how to develop solutions that make business sense to their clients. This may be delivered through lectures, discussions and dialogue sessions with established design entrepreneurs and business owners. Participants will also learn how to manage customer expectations and perceptions that are critical to a successful design business.
Upon completion of the module, participants will be able to develop and manage effective strategies to market and to operate their design business entities.
Module 5: Design Thinking
This module revisits Design Thinking and focuses on people as an elemental and critical component of the design solution. The participants will employ empathy to guide their identification and definition of a problem. They will develop the mindset, methods and tools to apply design thinking, build innovation capabilities and create effective design solutions.
Upon completion of the module, participants will be able to develop design thinking process from insights research to concept prototyping and testing.
