Week 1-4

WEEK 1: Design Futures Unveiling Creativity in Tomorrows World

In the first week of our spatial design class, we were introduced to the main ideas of the module and its importance in today’s world. We learned how spatial design drives innovation, improves user experiences, and tackles challenges to help shape a more sustainable and inclusive future. The lecture also covered how interactive interfaces can be used in spatial design to create engaging virtual environments. This approach opens up new avenues for us as students and designers to explore creativity and enhance experiences through immersive technology. The lecturer also presented examples of future projects, emphasizing the role of technology in connecting people with spaces.

WEEK 2: Introduction to Spatial Design

In our second spatial design class, we explored the basics and key aspects of being a spatial designer, focusing on how people move and interact within both interior and exterior spaces. Our lecturer stressed the importance of empathy in spatial design, highlighting how understanding both people and their environments is crucial. This perspective resonated with me, as I value empathy and aim to use design to make a positive difference.

We also discussed the essential skills we need to develop as designers, which will be valuable in our future careers. These skills include design thinking, understanding human behaviour, environmental psychology, spatial planning, technical proficiency with design software, colour theory, material selection, communication, research, and project management. I believe that mastering these skills will help us transform our empathy into effective and meaningful design solutions that benefit communities and environments.

Next up, we were introduced to the design elements such as point, plane, form and more and we were to tour campus and take pictures of objects we see with said design elements! However, as I could not walk that day and was not on campus due to an injury, I just participated at home!

Then, we also had to practice and do line drawings and trying to do so without using the help of rulers. I honestly enjoyed this as it simply felt like doodling!

WEEK 3: Gestalt Theory

In the third week, we explored Gestalt theory to understand visual perception principles. Although the term was new to me, the lecturer’s slides clarified its purpose. Gestalt psychology explains how we perceive the world through principles like figure and ground, proximity, closure, symmetry, and continuity.

• Figure and ground: Distinguishes an object from its background.
• Proximity: Groups elements placed close together.
• Closure: Fills in missing parts to perceive a complete shape.
• Symmetry: Balances elements, including bilateral, radial, and rotational symmetry.
• Continuity: Guides the eye with smooth lines to group elements and create a cohesive perception.

This study deepened my understanding of design and how Gestalt principles impact the design process. We were also tasked with creating a PowerPoint presentation on an interior or architectural designer, including research, a case study, and analysis of design elements and materials, supplemented with sketches and renderings. I chose to do Jorn Utzon, the architect behind the Sydney Opera House.

WEEK 4: Decoding Spatial Perception

In the fourth week, we revisited Gestalt theory with a focus on spatial perception and composition. We explored the principles of similarity (grouping items by shared characteristics) and simplicity (emphasizing clarity through minimalism).

We also covered compositional principles:

• Contrast: Highlights focal points.
• Repetition: Uses colors, shapes, and objects consistently.
• Scale: Adjusts size to emphasize elements.
• Rhythm: Creates movement and flow.
• Balance: Achieves harmony through colour, texture, and space.
• Hierarchy: Organizes elements to show importance.

For our assignment, we drew 12 boxes to apply these Gestalt principles and demonstrate our understanding.