THE ATTITUDE OF INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE EDUCATION TOWARDS DIGITAL DESIGN

With the recent developments in digital technology, the concept of computer aided design is transforming into a concept of computer mediated design. The computer is becoming more intertwined with the design process, becoming a creative device. Even though the research is still fresh on the subject, many examples of digital design applications are proposed by academicians and professionals. These applications can provide creative solutions, in some situations with numerous alternatives, to design problems. However in the interior design field the developments are still in its infancy. But this does not mean that the idea of digital design will not reach to interior design area. Creating and shaping spaces also poses a problem for the interior architecture field, which can benefit from digital design.

Since the digital design process proposes new tools and a new methodology for design, there should be a modification in the design education. The interior architect, who knows several cad drawing and visualization applications, might not be able to survive in the up and coming digital design world. The new knowledge base requires new skills and new forms of thinking. This article elaborates on the subject of the requirements and the possible exploitations of digital design process for the interior architect; and what skills can be provided during the education process to the developing interior architect to prepare him/her for the future of design.