The Visual Language of Design
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID5022 - Explore and Apply Creative Design Methodology to Interior Space
Summary
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.
• Work through ‘The Design Process’, learning how to design a space expressed in a client brief.
Getting Started
Welcome To IDI!
Modules
Videos
Overall Units
Units Covered
Course Contributors
How To Use Our Course
What Do I Need?
Software And Devices
Materials
What Is Interior Design?
Quotes We Love
Philosophy Of Interior Design
The Visual Language Of Design
Understanding Design Theory
The Design Process
Elements Of Interior Design
Space
Line
Shape
Colour
Texture
Light
Pattern
Principles Of Design
Balance
Rhythm
Emphasis
Proportion And Scale
Harmony
The History of Style, Decoration and Architecture
Unit/s covered in this module:
BSBDES305 - Source and Apply Information on the History and Theory of Design
Summary
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.
You will:
• 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.
• Look at the different style of furniture throughout the eras.
• Learn how to create ‘Research Information Folders’, to store the myriad of product available.
The History Of Style, Decoration and Architecture
Architecture Timeline
The History Of Architecture
Neolithic 10000-2000Bc
Mesopotamian 4500-2000Bc
Ancient Egyptian 3000-900Bc
Ancient Greek 1000-100Bc
Roman 1050Bc–500Ad
Byzantine 500-1500
Moorish 700-1500
Gothic 1150–1400
Renaissance 1400-1600
Baroque 1590–1725
Rococo 1700–1790
Industrial Revolution 1760–1820
Neoclassical Styles 1720-1830
Palladianism
Georgian
Greek Revival
Victorian Architecture And Design 1837–1901
Edwardian 1901-1914
Arts And Crafts Movement 1870-1910
Art Nouveau 1890-1914
Modernism 1900-1950
Art Deco 1920-1930
De Stijl Movement 1917-1931
Bauhaus 1919-1933
Postmodernism 1960
Minimalism 1980
Contemporary – Present Day
Sustainability
Work Health And Safety
Design Styles
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID4019 - Research Interior Decoration and Design Influences
Summary
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.
You will:
• Explore some of the most common interior decorating styles, including traditional, country, eclectic and contemporary.
• Develop your knowledge of different structures, common problems and their 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.
• Build your confidence by establishing a framework for completing a project in a professional manner that will ensure a consistent and high-quality result.
• Explore the 2D elements and principles of ‘Visual Art of Communication’. Learn both listening and communication skills to articulate how you will meet the client’s brief.
• Learn how to visually present ideas to your client by creating mood boards.
Speaking The Language Fluently
Trends
Colour Trends
Types Of Interior Design Styles
African
American
Arts And Crafts
Art Nouveau
Art Deco
Bohemian
Coastal
Country
Eclectic
French Provincial
Gothic
Hamptons
Hollywood Glam
Industrial
Japandi
Japanese
Mediterranean
Mid-Century Modern
Minimalism
Modern Australian
Modern Farmhouse
Moroccan
Retro
Rustic
Scandinavian
Shabby Chic
Traditional
Tropical
Urban Chic
Victorian
Wabi-Sabi
Considering The Site
Building An Aesthetic Plan
How To Visually Present Ideas To Your Client
Mood Boards
Space Planning
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID4012 - Decorate Residential Interiors
Summary
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.
You will:
• 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.
• Learn SketchUp for Interior Designers. SketchUp is a modelling program that can be used to create 2D floor plans and 3D models. This SketchUp course is suitable for beginners and includes over 30 video tutorials + downloadable reading material.
Space Planning And Proportion
Furniture Layouts
The Next Step In Space Planning
Styling An Existing Room
Living Room
Sofa
Armchair
Fireplace
Coffee Table
Tv/Media Unit
Seating Arrangements
Dining Room
Seating Arrangements
Bedrooms
Storage
Hallway
Home Office
Laundry
Kitchen Design
Bathroom Design
Types Of Bathrooms
Location
Design
Residential Building Design
Rules And Regulations
National Construction Code (Ncc)
Building Code Of Australia (Bca)
Australian Standards
Energy Efficiency
Orientation
Parts Of A Residential Building
Wall Components
Roof And Ceiling Styles
Ceiling Height
Windows
Floor Plans
Orthographic View Types
What Is A Floor Plan?
Parts Of The Floor Plan
Scale
Hand Drafting
Drafting Tools
Rulers
Paper
Lettering
Line Types
Dimensions
Dimensioning Rules
Symbols
Spatial Planning
What Is Spatial Planning (Space Planning)?
Lighting
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID4013 - Design Residential Interior Lighting
Summary
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.
You will:
• 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.
• 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.
• Understand energy efficiency and electricity supply to a home.
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
Energy Efficiency
Electricity Supply To The Home
Communicating With Your Builder
Lighting And Electrical Plans
Power Outlets
Symbols Used To Create A Reflected Ceiling Plan
Lighting Symbols
Colour
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID4016 - Design Colour Schemes for Interior and Exterior Spaces
Summary
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.
You will:
• 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.
• Find out how to work with wallpaper, specialty paint finishes and trend forecasting.
Colour
How Design Elements Interrelate
Guidelines For Using Colour
Colour And Light
Colour Psychology And Symbolism
The Emotional Effect Of Colours
Colour Symbolism
Colour Mixing Systems
The Human Eye
Additive Colour Mixing
Subtractive Colour Mixing
The Colour Wheel
Primary Colours
Secondary Colours
Tertiary Colours
Properties Of Colour
Hue
Value
Tint
Shade
Tone
Chroma
Colour Temperature
Colour Undertone
Colour Harmony Groups
Achromatic
Accented Achromatic
Analogous
Accented Analogous
Clash
Complementary
Split Complementary
Double Split Complementary
Monochromatic
Tetrad
Triadic
Creating Successful Colour Schemes
Contrast
Related Colours
Contrasting Colours
Colour And Perception
Planning A Colour Scheme
How To Specify Colour Accurately
Sampling The Colours
Exterior Colour
Types Of Paint
Wallpaper
Specialty Paint Finishes
Painters
How Much Paint Do I Need?
Interior Paint Colour Viewers And Visualisers
Trend Forecasting
Interior Finishes
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID4018 - Research and Recommend Hard Materials and Finishes for Interiors
Summary
You will learn how to apply the concepts of three-dimensional design to the reality of a finished space.
You will:
• 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.
• Discover new emerging hard material and finishes.
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
Decorative Textiles and Fabrics
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID4021 - Design Soft Furnishing Solutions for Interior Spaces
Summary
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.
• Explore fabrics and how to select and apply them to different design styles.
• 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
Curtains
Lining Fabrics
Measuring For Curtains
Specifying Fabrics
Fabric Abbreviations
Furniture, Art and Accessories
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID5028 - Research and Recommend Artwork
Summary
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.
You will:
• 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.
• Learn about Indigenous art and the legal obligations surrounding it.
• You will be instructed on how to correctly frame, position and mount artwork.
Furniture
History, Period & Contemporary Pieces
Upholstered Furniture
The Technical Side Of Upholstered Furniture
Applying The Elements & Principles Of Design
Specifying A New Piece
Art
Sculpture
Screens
Photography
Indigenous Art
Accessories
Area Rugs
Unique Rug Styles
Schedule Of Specifications
Working With Clients
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID5021 - Evaluate Site Structure and Services for Interior Spaces
Summary
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.
You will:
• 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.
• Learn how to conduct a site evaluation.
The Home Is Where The Heart Is
Reasons For Using An Interior Designer
Building Relationships With Clients
How To Approach A Design Project
Analysis Phase
Your First Meeting
Questions To Ask
Setting Project Priority
Site Evaluation
Talking About Money
Concept Phase
Your Second Meeting
Visual Design Tools
Priorities For The Second Meeting
Final Design
Implementation Phase
Source And Specification
Schedule Of Work
Order Of Tasks
Project Cost
Your Fee Structure
Paperwork For The Interior Designer
Quotations
Agreements
Interior Design Agreement
Visual Communication
Unit/s covered in this module:
MSFID4014 - Produce Digital Models and Documentation for Interior Design Projects
Summary
In this module, you will be taught how to document your ideas and designs for clients, contractors and your own reference.
You will:
• 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
Drawing Equipment
Orthographic Drawings
Interior Elevations
Sections
Additional Drawings
Axonometric Drawings
Rendering
Sketching
The Illusion Of 3D
Types Of Perspective Drawings
How To Draw A One Point Perspective Plan
Setting Up an Interior Design Business
Unit/s covered in this module:
BSBDES403 - Develop and Extend Design Skills and Practice
Summary
If you are considering making design your career, this may be the decisive chapter that is the stepping stone to your future success.
You will:
• 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.
• Put what you have learnt throughout the course into practise by designing an office space for your new business.
Getting Started
Setting Up An Office
Home Office
Hiring Office Space
Designing Your Office
Space Planning (Spatial Planning)
Drawing Your Plan
Consider Branding
Lighting
Technological Requirements
Colour
Furniture
Setting Up Your Business
Business Plan
Business Branding
Business Name And Logo
Website
Business Expenses And Tax
Business Expenses
Tax
Finding Clients
Word Of Mouth
Social Media
Website
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
Resumes
Cover Letter
Portfolio
How To Make A Portfolio
Finding Work In The Field
Sarah Silva
25/02/2021
Inspiring course
I’ve found the course to be really interesting and I have learned a lot. The tutors are very helpful and...
Zaileen Shah
25/02/2021
A 5-star online course
Extremely in-depth and course content is relevant to the industry. It’s lots of fun but requires commitment and discipline to...
Aleksandra Brankovic
23/02/2021
IDI, Is The Way To Go
If you are interested in the field of Interior Design, the courses provided by The Interior Design Institute, is the...
Megan
23/02/2021
So happy I completed this course with IDI
I very much enjoyed the course as it had great content, was very interesting and informative. The feedback from my...
Safa Siddiq
23/02/2021
Right Choice
This course has given me these great 6 months. I felt challenged, accomplished, and well-taught. My personal tutor has been...
Yvonne Daisley
22/02/2021
IDI is an amazing course!
IDI is an amazing course!! It walks you through all the aspects of everything interior design! I love the Facebook...
Tominika Ahio
22/02/2021
Full time Mama approved
I began this course months back and am loving the versatility of it. Being a busy full time mother of...
Chloe Cerchiara
22/02/2021
Love it!
Love it! Can’t fault the course and can’t wait to graduate.
Dimitra Formosa
21/02/2021
Great course content, highly recommend
I thoroughly enjoyed the course as it has great content, it is very interesting and informative. The feedback was useful...
Mary
20/02/2021
A clever design of a clever design course
This course was brilliantly designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of Interior Design. It covered a wide range of...
Talia
17/02/2021
Don’t fix what isn’t broke
I loved every minute of this course! Very informative, tutors are full of wisdom, support is quick and efficient and...
Taylor
14/02/2021
I'm so glad I took the step to enrol!
I recently completed the Interior Design course and I can honestly say that I am so glad that I took...
Tiana Tannous
14/02/2021
The Interior Design Institute is a…
The Interior Design Institute is a great online course. It is easy to understand and follow providing useful information to...
Jacquie H
11/02/2021
Very comprehensive and practical…
Very comprehensive and practical course. Materials are terrific and I have learned heaps from completing the assignments.
Oksana Netyksha
09/02/2021
Review
Dear IDI Team, I would like to THANK YOU all for your great Program ! For organizing this amazing study...