The Importance of Design Education for Children

In a world that's constantly evolving with new technologies and ways of thinking, design education stands out as a powerful tool for children's development. It's not just about creating aesthetically pleasing objects; it's about nurturing problem-solving skills, encouraging creative thinking, and understanding the world around us.

Design education offers a unique blend of practical and theoretical learning. It helps children to understand the 'why' and the 'how' behind the objects they use every day. By engaging in design activities, children learn to appreciate the complexity and thought that goes into creating functional and meaningful products. This appreciation can foster a sense of curiosity and wonder, driving them to explore and invent.

Moreover, design education is inherently interdisciplinary. It integrates concepts from science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as art, history, and social studies. This broad approach helps children to see connections between different subjects and apply their knowledge in holistic ways. For instance, learning about materials and their properties in design can enhance their understanding of science, while accurate measuring can bolster their math skills.

Collaboration is another cornerstone of design education. Children often work in teams to brainstorm, plan, and execute their design projects. This collaborative environment encourages them to communicate effectively, share ideas, and respect different perspectives. These are essential life skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

Design also encourages children to think about sustainability and the impact of their creations on the environment. They learn to consider the lifecycle of products and the importance of designing with the future in mind. This early awareness can lead to a generation that values and practices sustainable living.

Furthermore, design education can be incredibly empowering for children. It gives them the opportunity to see their ideas come to life. There's a profound sense of achievement when a child holds a product they've designed and created. This boosts their confidence and reinforces the belief that they can make a difference in the world.

In conclusion, design education is much more than just an artistic endeavor. It's a comprehensive learning experience that equips children with critical thinking, collaboration, and technical skills. It prepares them for a future where they can not only adapt to changes but also drive innovation and progress. As we look towards a future that's increasingly shaped by design, providing children with the tools to understand and contribute to this field is not just beneficial—it's essential.

Interior Decorating vs. Interior Design

One of the questions that I always pose to my students and their parents in the Design Careers course is: "How do you distinguish between an Interior Decorator and an Interior Designer?" The responses that I receive are usually quite humorous and reveal some common misconceptions about the two professions. In this blog, I will explain the main differences and similarities between them, as well as the skills and qualifications required for each one.

Many people confuse the two terms and use them interchangeably. They associate "interior design" with the "room makeover" shows they watch on TV, or the DIY decor projects they find on Pinterest, but what they have in mind is actually interior decorating. Interior design and interior decorating have some similarities, but they are also distinct professions with different roles and responsibilities. So, before we start the next course, I want to clarify the main differences between them. Here is my explanation:

Interior Design vs. Interior Decorating

Many people confuse interior designers and interior decorators, but they are not the same. Interior designers have to be certified by passing a professional exam, while interior decorators can work without any formal training.

Interior design is a discipline that combines art and science to create functional and comfortable spaces for people, taking into account building codes, health and safety standards, and technical and structural limitations. Interior decorating is a craft that involves choosing and arranging decorative elements to enhance the appearance and style of a space. In other words, interior designers can also decorate, but decorators cannot design.

It is important for clients and homeowners to understand the difference between the two professions and what they can offer. Here are some of the main distinctions in the roles and qualifications

• A professional interior designer must complete formal education and certification to practice in the field. Interior decorators do not have such requirements, but they can benefit from taking various courses to improve their skills. Interior decorating can be learned through experience or gradually as one gains more exposure.

• Interior designers must understand their client's behaviour, taste, and preferences to create functional, safe, and beautiful spaces for them. They are comfortable with spatial planning and can help design and renovate interiors—from drawing up the initial floor plans to placing the last decorative accent. Designers don't just enhance the look of a space, but also determine its function. On the other hand, interior decorating involves furnishing space with decorative accessories or furniture. Good decorators are skilled at coming into a room and whipping it into visual shape. For new spaces, they can help clients decide on a style, choose, purchase furniture, and accessorize. They're also often brought in to spruce up an existing space that needs to be updated or redone.

• Interior designers are experts in creating spaces that suit their client's needs, preferences, and lifestyle. They can design and remodel interiors from scratch, or work with existing structures and layouts. They not only make spaces look attractive, but also ensure they are functional and safe. Interior designers are involved in every stage of the project, from drafting the initial floor plans to selecting the final decorative touches. On the other hand, interior decorators focus on furnishing and accessorising spaces with decorative items or furniture. They have a good eye for style, color, and aesthetics, and can transform a room's appearance and mood. They can help clients choose a style, buy furniture, and accessorise for new spaces, or refresh and update old ones.

• Interior designers often work closely with architects and contractors to help achieve the look the client desires, whether that client is designing a residential home, an office, a hotel, or any other interior space. Decorators don't generally work with any contractors or architects, since structural work is usually complete before they come on board. They do, however, work with furniture makers, upholsterers, and other industry professionals. Most often, though, they work directly with homeowners or business managers.
  

So, to summarise: If structural changes are needed (such as removing a wall, moving plumbing or wiring around, or adding new windows or doors), then generally an interior designer is the better choice. Designers can help plan for significant structural changes and help make them happen by working directly with architects and builders. On the other hand, if there are no structural changes needed but you need aesthetic help (choosing wallpaper, paint, and furnishings; picking window treatments, and choosing lighting and accessories) an interior decorator will be more suited to your project. Experienced decorators know what works together and can transform a room to suit a client's style.

Why study Architecture?

Why study architecture? This is a question that many prospective students may ask themselves when considering their career options. Architecture is a discipline that combines creativity, technical skills, social awareness, and environmental responsibility. It is also a profession that offers a variety of opportunities and challenges, as well as the satisfaction of creating spaces that improve the quality of life for people and communities.

In this blog post, I will explore some of the reasons why studying architecture can be a rewarding and fulfilling choice for anyone who is passionate about design, problem-solving, and making a positive impact on the world.

Architecture is a creative field that allows you to express your vision and personality. You will have the chance to design buildings and structures that reflect your style, values, and aspirations. You will also learn from different cultures, histories, and contexts, and incorporate them into your projects. Architecture is not only about aesthetics, but also about functionality, innovation, and sustainability.

• Architecture is a technical field that requires you to master various skills and tools. You will learn how to use software, such as CAD, BIM, and 3D modeling, to create drawings, models, and simulations of your designs. You will also learn how to apply engineering principles, such as structural analysis, materials science, and construction methods, to ensure the safety, durability, and efficiency of your buildings. Architecture is not only about art, but also about science, technology, and mathematics.

• Architecture is a social field that involves working with people and communities. You will collaborate with other architects, engineers, contractors, clients, and stakeholders throughout the design and construction process. You will also communicate your ideas and proposals to different audiences, such as peers, professors, jurors, and public officials. Architecture is not only about individual expression, but also about teamwork, communication, and negotiation.

• Architecture is an environmental field that addresses the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. You will learn how to design buildings and structures that are responsive to the climate, site, and context. You will also learn how to incorporate sustainable practices, such as energy efficiency, renewable resources, waste reduction, and green building standards, into your projects. Architecture is not only about building for today, but also about planning for tomorrow.

These are just some of the reasons why studying architecture can be a great option for anyone who wants to pursue a career that is creative, technical, social, and environmental. Of course, studying architecture also comes with its own difficulties and demands, such as long hours of work, high expectations of quality, constant feedback and criticism, and intense competition. However, if you are willing to face these challenges with dedication, perseverance, and enthusiasm, you will find that architecture is a rewarding and fulfilling profession that can make a difference in the world.