The Visual Language of Design
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.
Getting Started
Welcome To IDI!
Modules
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
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
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.
• 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.
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
Design Styles
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.
• Explore some of the most common interior decorating styles, including traditional, country, eclectic and contemporary.
• Develop your knowledge of different structures, common problems and 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.
• Discover how to keep informed of trends and how to look for trend inspiration.
• Learn how to visually present ideas to your client by creating a mood board.
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
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.
• 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.
Space Planning And Proportion
Furniture Layouts
The Next Step In Space Planning
Styling An Existing Room
Living Room
Kitchen Design
Bathroom Design
Residential Building Design
Energy Efficiency
Orientation
Parts Of A Residential Building
Floor Plans
What Is A Floor Plan?
Parts Of The Floor Plan
Symbols
Abbreviations
Spatial Planning
What Is Spatial Planning?
Lighting
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.
• 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.
• Learn the various types of light bulbs available to interior designers and how to select the right one for a client’s room.
• 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.
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
Communicating With Your Builder
Lighting And Electrical Plans
Power Outlets
Symbols Used To Create A Reflected Ceiling Plan
Lighting Symbols
Colour
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.
• 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.
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
Creating Successful Colour Schemes
Colour And Perception
Simultaneous Contrast
Colour Interactions
Planning A Colour Scheme
Flooring
Communicating About Colour
How To Specify Colour Accurately
Sampling The Colours
Exterior Colour
Types Of Paint
Wallpaper
Specialty Paint Finishes
Painters
Colours On Computers
Interior Paint Colour Viewers And Visualisers
Trend Forecasting
Staying Inspired
Interior Finishes
You will learn how to apply the concepts of three-dimensional design to the reality of a finished space.
• 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.
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
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.
• 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
Specifying Fabrics
Fabric Abbreviations
Furniture, Art and Accessories
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.
• 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.
• Create the complete decor scheme for each room from the renovation project in Module 4.
Furniture
History, Period & Contemporary Pieces
Upholstered Furniture
The Technical Side Of Upholstered Furniture
Applying The Elements & Principles Of Design
Specifying A New Piece
Furniture Safety
Art
Sculpture
Screens
Photography
Accessories
Area Rugs
Unique Rug Styles
Working With Clients
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.
• 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.
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
Programs To Help With Your Paperwork
Safety On A Construction Site
Visual Communication
In this module, you will be taught how to document your ideas and designs for clients, contractors and your own reference.
• 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
Drawing Kitchen Elevations
Sections
Additional Drawings
Axonometric Drawings
Rendering
Sketching
The Illusion Of 3D
Types Of Perspective Drawings
How To Draw A One Point Perspective Plan
Materials Board
Layout
Construction
Setting Up an Interior Design Business
If you are considering making design your career, this may be the decisive chapter that is the stepping stone to your future success.
• 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.
Getting Started
Setting Up An Office
Home Office
Hiring Office Space
Designing Your Office
Space Planning
Drawing Your Plan
Consider Branding
Lighting
Technological Requirements
Ergonomic Check List For Your Office
Desk Height
Sit & Stand Desk Options
Desktop Layout
Setting Up Your Business
Business Plan
Business Branding
Business Name And Logo
Website
Business Expenses
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
Skills
Resumes
Cover Letter
Portfolio
How To Make A Portfolio
Finding Work In The Field
Rumby
07 Apr 2021
Great Course!
Absolutely loving and enjoying every module! Every module challenges you to learn and opens your design eye further. It’s amazing...
Marichelle Van Staden
05 Apr 2021
Best course ever!
Best course ever!
Shané Aucamp
31 Mar 2021
The Masterseries course review
The Master series course that IDI has created with the input of Darren Palmer is excellent. I am really enjoying...
Bhavna Naidoo
30 Mar 2021
Amazing IDI... Go for it!
I have just finished half of my course and I am really loving it, I wish I could spend all...
Belinda Kretschmann
28 Mar 2021
5 Star Service
I can really say in the last few months during my 6 Modules, I've received fast and friendly service from...
Zahraa
28 Mar 2021
Would recommend over and over!!
Since beginning the course I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every single aspect of the course, from each module being for informative covering...
Adon Robertson Mbewe
25 Mar 2021
Life after the diploma in interior design.....
9 years ago I completed the diploma in interior design. A whole new world opened up to me. Being an...
Jannique Gildenhuys
23 Mar 2021
If you are looking for an affordable…
If you are looking for an affordable and flexible coarse where you learn a lot, this is the one!
Annatjie du Plessis
22 Mar 2021
Love the Interior Design Institute and…
Love the Interior Design Institute and would recommend it to anyone. Student support and tutors are super helpful. It was...
Anisha Maharaj
20 Mar 2021
I loved every bit of the course
I loved every bit of the course. It has opened a whole new world of design for me. I now...
Ulindi Kok
19 Mar 2021
This is one of the best decisions I…
This is one of the best decisions I have made to advance my career as an interior decorator/designer. The information...
Siyasanga Makie
13 Mar 2021
It’s definitely worth it and doable
It’s definitely worth it and doable. The content is very well presented and the assignments help you to better understand...
Natalie Smith
10 Mar 2021
The Interior Design Institute helped me turn my dream into reality!
The Interior Design Institute provided me with an exceptionally rewarding experience, from comprehensive and very informative study guides to a...
K A
10 Mar 2021
I loved studying through The Interior…
I loved studying through The Interior Design Institute. It is self paced and perfect for anyone. I would really recommend...
Candice Polti
08 Mar 2021
This course is amazing and would highly…
This course is amazing and would highly recommend it to anyone, I have thoroughly enjoyed it which says a lot...