COLOUR

Module 6

You need to propose three different paint colour schemes for the renovation plan that you completed in Assignment Four.

- Scheme 1 - Monochromatic
- Scheme 2 - Analogous
- Scheme 3 - Achromatic

MONOCHROMATIC

ANALOGOUS

ACHROMATIC

LIGHTING

Module 5

Draw a plan for lighting and other electrical equipment that coincides with the space plan you have already provided.

STUDY

Because this study room can also double up as a family/hangout room, I have incorporated a quad outlet near the west window by the couch. This enables the household occupants to use additional electronic devices (laptops, charge their mobile phones, etc). 

I have also added a double outlet next to the desk for the computer and printer. 

Since my design is based in New Zealand, it can get quite hot in the summer, which is why I've added a ceiling fan to the study room. The ceiling fan is placed in the centre of the room, so the entire study will be cooled down during the hot summer days. 

Aside from the natural light given by the window, the study has two artificial lights. One is a wall light placed by the couch and the other is a floor lamp by the desk. Both the wall and floor light designs save space, which allows more room for occupants in the room.

BATHROOM

The bathroom is equipped with one ceiling light in the middle. I feel like this is adequate enough, because the bathroom is small and it does not need much light.

I have also added a waterproof outlet, for the use of hairdryers, hair straighteners, shavers, etc.

LAUNDRY

The laundry has two ceiling lights, controlled by the two switches by the door. There is a double outlet by the dryer, which is used for both the dryer and the washing machine. In the north east corner of the laundry room, where the ironing board is placed, I have added an outlet with a switch. Not only can it be used for the iron, but it can also be used for a sewing machine, or a portable radio when the client does the laundry.

PANTRY/STORAGE

Both the pantry and storage are equipped with one light each. There are no outlets in these two rooms because they are both too small to need one.

KITCHEN/DINING AREA

The kitchen/dining room is equipped four recessed ceiling lights. Three of the lights are placed in the middle, for the client when she is cooking during the evening. The four light is placed over the empty counter top.

Along with the fourth light, there is also a double outlet, which can be used for the kettle, microwave, or toaster. This outlet is also waterproof.

Next to the oven, there are two outlets, one for the oven/stove and the other for the range hood. The smoke detector is placed right beside the oven. There is also an outlet for the dishwasher, which is placed right next to it.

The dining area has a drop cord light right above the dining table. This creates a generous amount of light, and since the table is relatively small, one light is enough to illuminate the area.

LIVING ROOM/HALLWAY

The hallway has one drop cord light, and the switch is right next to the entrance. 

The living room, like the study, has a ceiling fan. It is placed right above the coffee table, and can be used during the warmer months. 

The living room has one floor lamp next to the couch, and a table lamp near the southern wall. With both these lights turned on, there will be enough light to illuminate the entire living room.

The living area also has two quad outlets. One is situated by the floor lamp. This outlet is used for the lamp, the television, the game system and the DVD player. The other outlet is situated by (and used for) the table lamp. The other three outlets are for any other extra devices the client has/needs.

FINAL NOTES

There is a doorbell outside the door for guests.

SPACE PLANNING

Module 4

The existing floor plan is here. It has a central hallway, a stairway to the upper storey, arches that lead to the dining room on the west wall and the living room on the east wall.

Behind the dining room and to the north is the kitchen and laundry room. Behind the living room in the same direction is the study. There is also an old toilet under the stairs.

Your client has a young family and wants to modernise the house. She loves to cook but doesn’t want to feel isolated in the kitchen. She rarely entertains in a formal setting and she prefers family oriented occasions.

She wants to renovate the house starting from the ground floor and hasn’t decided what style of furniture she wants. The existing furniture is traditional in style. She also wants to technologically update the kitchen and the entertainment systems.

Please start by re-creating the entire ground floor plan. Keep in mind that you will be using this newly designed plan in your future assignments.

Develop a layout which has less emphasis on formal dining, a more functional kitchen and increased space for casual entertaining and family activities.

You can change the rooms around but leave the stairs and exterior walls where they are. You can knock down walls, however please be sure to note that you would always seek the advice of a licensed builder or engineer.

• "Your client has a young family and wants to modernise the house."

Modern interior design are often more spacious as compared to traditional designs, so I have incorporated that idea into this renovation. To create more space, I took away the corridor in the middle of the room, and created an open living room and kitchen/dining area on the east side of the house. The open space allows her children to run around, and there is enough room for her extended family when they visit. 

• "She loves to cook but doesn’t want to feel isolated in the kitchen."

To save space, I chose an L-shape unit, placing it against the wall. Not only does this save space, but it also creates a more open kitchen/dining area, so when the client is preparing meals, she is not isolated. Because of the way the layout is done and because of the window placement, all storage units are in the counters. Additionally, for extra storage for food and/or spices, I have placed a pantry next to the fridge, making it easily accessible to anybody using the kitchen.

The dining room consists of a dining table and six chairs, each with enough space behind for people to manoeuvre around.  

Living Area

A corner sofa was used to separate the dining area from the living area. In the middle of the living area, there is a coffee table with a bouquet of flowers, creating a welcoming ambience to the room. To create more space, the television is a flat screen mounted on the wall, with a shelf below it for any and all entertainment systems.

Study

The study is placed directly across the hall from the living room, and acts as both a study room and a second living area. The study contains a desk (with a computer), another sofa (with a coffee table and another bouquet of flowers), and a bookshelf. The study also has an ensuite, complete with a bath, toilet, sink, vanity cabinet and a window to prevent moulding. 

Laundry

I replaced where the kitchen used to be with the laundry room, equipped with a dryer, washing machine, a sink, and a place for ironing. The laundry also has a sliding door that allows easy access to the outdoors to hang up washing.

Storage

Instead of a toilet under the stairs, I converted it into a storage space for towels, sheets, etc.

DESIGN STYLES

Module 3

A.    Find an image of a cool space. With your knowledge thus far, explain how you can change this space into a warm and intimate environment. Remember your changes don’t need to be drastic, they can be subtle.

B.    Find an image where the windows and doors are, or are not, in harmonious alignment to each other and explain why you feel this way drawing on the elements and principles of design again. This can be an indoor or an outdoor shot.

C.    Find an image of a room with something wonderful about it that you feel isn’t given enough emphasis. Explain how you would emphasize it more. For example, a fireplace.

A way to add warmth to this rather cool space is to add a splash of warm colour (red, yellow, orange). Added colours will bring life to the space.  The floors of the space is made up of wood and marble, both of which create a very cool and sophisticated space — to counteract that, adding a soft carpet in the middle of the room will bring a sense of warmth and welcome to the space.

The space has very precise furniture (both in placement and shape), and another way to add warmth to the space is to add a softer and more enveloping furniture. Warmth can also be added to the room by adding more patterned fabric for the furniture as well as the curtains, walls, and window finishes.

In terms of lighting, there is a gracious amount of natural light through the large windows, and when natural light is unavailable, the light source comes from the lamp in the corner. Adding more soft and incandescent lighting will create a more warming environment.

This modern house design in harmonious in the way that everything is symmetrical and look visually balanced. The two windows on the second level placed side by side mirror the way the way the two garage doors are paralleled on the first level. This creates a sense of balance and harmony throughout the entire aesthetic.

There are no curved edges throughout the design. The edges of the roof meet in a triangle, and the panels on the garage doors and windows are all straight (both horizontal and vertical panels).

The colours also create a harmonious setting. This design has more elements of cooler colours used, but the added splash of orange and brown add some warmth to the building (without these added colours, the design would look very uninviting and cold). 

The ratio between the first and second level of the house is also balanced, with not one being far higher than the other.

The piece of decoration I would like to emphasise on in this modern design is the piece of art hanging above the couch. Despite having a nice patterned texture, it seems to get lost against the white coloured walls. A suggestion I would give to emphasising the piece would be to add a frame to the panel (the colour of the frame would be a dark grey to match the couch, or a deep purple to match the cushions). 

I would also suggest adding a set of lights above the painting to put more focus on it (much like that in an art gallery). Because of where it is placed, there is no natural light that will shine on the panel, so by adding artificial light, it would create more emphasis and make it more eye catching.

The entire design of the room has a very balanced feeling, and the continuous use of the colour white creates a nice sense of rhythm. 

THE HISTORY OF STYLE, DECORATION, AND ARCHITECTURE

Module 2

Find five images of New Zealand house styles or buildings from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. 

Your main objective is to develop an understanding of the different design periods that have influenced Architecture and Design since the first settlers arrived in New Zealand. You need to identify the historical influences and characteristic features (exterior only) that are evident in these images.

The Sacred Heart Cathedral, Wellington

The cathedral, which finished being built in 1901, is inspired by various styles, though the most notable is Greek and Roman. Greek design is characterised by columns, pediments, and entablatures. This cathedral was commonly known as a Basilica, due to its Palladian architectural style. The Palladian style referred to using a screen of Roman columns at the front of a building or structure.

The Sacred Heart incorporates the use of ionic columns, which are characterised by the pair of volutes at the top. These columns hold the roof over the portico, which is a porch that leads to the entrance of the building. The columns rest on a plinth, and the high pediment that sits on top of the pillars reflects those found on Roman or Greek temples. The entrance to the cathedral also sits under a pediment, and above the doors there are arched windows. Arched windows are common in Palladian style buildings, though most Palladian windows are flanked by two rectangular windows (which are not present in the cathedral).

Even though the cathedral was built in the 20th century, the pitched and symmetrical roof styling takes inspiration from the Georgian Era, a style of architecture that was popular from 1720-1800.

The cathedral is predominantly built from Oamaru limestone, a material that is typically used for ornate mouldings. The foyer entrance is constructed with concrete, and the entire building has a brick facing.

Canterbury Museum, Christchurch

Built in 1882, the Canterbury Museum’s design incorporated many elements from the Gothic Revival architectural style. One of the most commonly identifiable features of the Gothic Revival style is the pointed arch, used for windows, doors., and decorative elements like porches, dormers, or roof gables. This feature can be seen all across the walls of the museum.

The museum was built with Oamaru stone, and has a brick facing.

Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Christchurch

The construction of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament finished in 1905, and adapted the name Christchurch Basilica due to its architectural style. The Christchurch Basilica was inspired by Renaissance architecture, but incorporates Byzantine, Gothic, and Greek designs.

The Byzantine influence is characterised by the domes that sit on top of the building. The domes were supported by pointed pediments, which was common in Greek architecture. Another aspect of Greek architecture that was incorporated into the Christchurch Basilica is the Ionic columns on either side of the building. These columns are identified as Ionic due to the pair of volutes at the top. The columns are held up by a plinth, and at the top of the columns sit a plain frieze. The window styles are inspired by Gothic architecture. There are two different types of windows – one with curved pediments and another with pointed pediments, both of which were quite common during the Gothic Revival, set during the 1800’s.

Most Renaissance buildings were constructed with bricks and faced with stone. The Christchurch Basilica was made predominantly out of stone, with very little wood. Oamaru and Mount Somers stone was used. The corners of the building are emphasised by quoins, which is a feature incorporated in most Renaissance era architecture.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, Christchurch

Built in 2014, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre is inspired by modern architecture. The visitor centre also takes inspiration from Bauhaus architecture, with its simplicity and lack of ornamentation. The simplicity of the design is a trait that's widely used in modern architecture, a vast difference to older architecture. A characteristic of modern architecture is the use of generous light and glass, which can be seen in the Visitor Centre. Glass architecture — and the allowance of natural light — is predominantly used in modern architecture. Modern architecture also emphasises with the open and flowing spaces, which can be seen in the Visitor Centre. The centre is not split into many different rooms, and is instead one long building.

Modern architecture involve the use of straight and angled lines, as opposed to older, more traditional, architecture (where curved exteriors were favoured). Angled lines are incorporated in the design through the roof, which is made up of flat surfaces placed at angles to create a design similar to a zigzagged pattern. 

Modern architecture is typically free of clutter and unnecessary elements, which is showcased in the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, as the structure is simple, and there is no added designs and columns. 

Massey University's College Of Creative Arts, Wellington

Massey University's College Of Creative Arts (CoCA), is inspired by modern architecture. Modern architecture takes a very linear approach to its designs and buildings, and this is seen in way the CoCA building is made up of straight lines and angles. There are no curved corners or arched windows — everything about the design is linear, from the angled roof to the window panes. Modern architecture is also characterised by its roof patterns. Unlike the usual traditional triangle based roofs, modern architecture incorporates the use of elongated vaulted ceilings to create an angled roof (a feature prominent in the CoCA building). The CoCA building also has a prominent roof overhang, for both the upper and lower levels.

Windows in modern architecture are often used to bring in natural light, and therefore are featured usually as floor length or bigger panes. The CoCA building is compromised of having an entire wall covered in windows, which not only bring in light, but also creates a more open space for the interior. 

THE VISUAL LANGUAGE OF DESIGN

Module 1

Select three Interior spaces that each conveys a different message, mood or feeling. 
Describe how these moods have been created in each space using the elements and principles of design as they have been discussed so far. 

Design Elements

The high ceiling creates an illusion of airiness, as does the placement of the furniture. The small spaces between the furniture does not give off a feeling of mess and clutter, but rather a feel of coziness and security.

The curved lines are prominent in this design, which creates a softening and graceful effect to the entire room. These curved lines are especially shown in the coffee table stands, the curve of the arm chairs and the rounded chandelier attached to the ceiling.

The colours that are used create a very calming and earthly vibe to the room. The light colours of the walls, curtains and selected furniture brings out the dark colours of the fireplace and cushion covers. The recurring use of browns and beige brings out the blues of the cushions and fireplace.

The walls, fireplace, and ceiling look smooth, and the polished windows and coffee table are sleek. The fabric used for the curtains and couches seem soft to touch, and the rug placed in the middle under the coffee table looks to be both comforting and soft to step on.

The tall windows let in plenty of natural light during the daytime. When night falls, the space is illuminated by the various table lamps placed around the room, as well as the hanging chandelier.

The striped pattern on the cushion covers adds a semblance of playfulness to the otherwise sophisticated look of the design. The striped patterns is a change of pace as compared to the majority of the solid coloured cushion covers placed around the space.

Design Principles

The furniture placement showcases a sense of balance in the design. The three seater sofa facing the fireplace and the two single chairs by the window facing the blue sofa creates an asymmetrical look, with the coffee table and chandelier filling up the space in the middle. The entire balance of the design gives off a vibe of spontaneity. The decoration placed in between the two windows also create a sense of balance.

The emphasis in this space is the fireplace. Its dark paint contrasts with the lighter beige of the walls. The dark colours are also repeated with the cushions on the three seater couch.

The furnitures are all moderately proportioned amongst each other. There is no clear piece of furniture that seems to take up more room than others, and this creates an overall balanced and sophisticated feel to the space. There isn't much negative space on the floor or ceilings.

This space is harmonious in a way that the colours seem to complement each other. The blues and beiges and browns create a sense of calmness and homeliness. The space is visually appealing and looks inviting to guests, and the placement of the furniture creates an ideal place for conversation. 

Design Elements

The moderate ceilings and relatively tight spaces between the furniture pieces give this space a compact feeling. There isn't much empty space, but rather than give off a feeling of clutter, it creates a sense of security for guests.

The space is decorated with sharp lines — the horizontal shelves built into the wall creates a restful feeling to the design. The slightly curved legs of the coffee table adds a semblance of gracefulness to the entire design. The overall straight lines creates a masculine feel to the entire space.

The rounded shape of the wooden side table and the bar stools contrasts with the otherwise sharp edges of all the other furniture pieces in the room. 

The design has predominantly dark colours, most noticeably dark browns and navy blues. However, the dark colours are contrasted by the white ceiling and wall furtherest from the entrance.

The room's texture is mostly smooth and hard, with a touch of softness in the rug and couches. The smooth textures of the furniture adds to the secure feeling of the entire design.

Due to the size of the windows, there is not much natural light that enters the room during the daytime. However, because this space is not large, the small windows are perfect for this scenario. When the sun has set, the fireplace in the centre of the room provides a warm glow around the room. The lamp in the corner of the room can also be used for light during the night, leaving the room illuminated.

The motorcycle pattern drawn onto the rug further intensifies the masculinity of the entire design. The patterns visible in this design are mostly square and simple.

Design Principles

A sense of balance is achieved from the shelves in the far wall. The wall is facing the two bar stools and countertop. To create a more balanced look, the single chair and side table should be tilted to face the window. 

With the angle the single chair is at now, it creates a nice flow from one end of the room to the other. The curve of the chair leads our eyes to the fireplace and then to the three-seater sofa by the window.

The emphasis in this design are the two plants in the room (one on top of the coffee table and the other next to the single couch). The bright green leaves contrasts against the dark colours of the rest of the interior, and it makes it the first thing to catch people's eyes.

The furniture pieces are all well-portioned to the size of the space available, with no distinct difference in size. 

The dark colours with a splash of white/light colours create a harmonious design in terms of colour. The placement of furniture and the modest amount of empty space all create a sense of harmony in the design, and also creates a feeling of security.

Design Elements

A sense of airiness is achieved by the high ceilings and the wide space between the furniture.

The shape of the entire design is a balance of rigidness and softness. The rounded edges of the side table, lamps and rattan chair creates a contrast with the sharp edges of the trunk-like coffee table.

The colours used are soft and comforting. The different shades of blues and teals complement the browns of the furniture and the whites of the windows and ceiling. The green furniture also provide a splash of colour. The soft colours create a homely feel to the overall design, and it’s inviting to guests. The excess of white creates a somewhat calming environment, and also gives off a clean and crisp feel to the entire room. The warm colours of the furniture gives a homely feel to the entire design, making it inviting and comfortable.

The texture of the entire design is pleasant and calming.  The wooden texture is repeated through the space, in the side tables and the rattan chair, as well as the floor.

The wide space of the entire design accompanied by many windows let in natural light during the day. When night falls, the lamps provide a gracious amount of light for the right side of the room, while the left side is left without much artificial light. 

Design Principles

The right side of the room is clearly favoured, as shown by most of the furniture being placed towards that side. However, the entire space has a sense of balance because of the furniture placement. While one side is compacted with furniture, the other has a minimalist effect, with a simple hammock, plant and other little bits and pieces of furniture. One side of the design has furniture with solid edges, while the other has a curved hammock, which creates more balance in the entire design, and therefor an overall homely look.

The emphasis in this entire design is the ficus plant in the corner of the room. While it is not placed directly in the centre, the plant is the first thing to catch people’s eye because of its height in comparison to the rest of the furniture and because of the bright green leaves contrasting against the lighter colours of the wall.

With the light colours of the walls contrasting with the dark wooden floors, and the splashes of colour in the otherwise white furniture, it creates a sense of harmony in the entire design. There is nothing that looks out of place, and everything about the design fit in together perfectly.