An adaptive design approach to studio spaces in higher education within the Interior Design and Architectural disciplines

Abstract

This research is focused on dedicated learning spaces within higher education institutions and, more specifically, studio spaces within the disciplines of Interior Design and Architectural education. Conventional design studios in higher education are manifesting a shift due to the steady progress of the internet and information technology. Thus, the educational function of the design studio within the traditional pedagogical structure needs to respond to current social, economic, ecological and technological changes. Consequently, the main research challenge that prompted this study was the search for, and conceptualisation of, a creative and adaptive approach to a more collaborative studio space, so that the integration of the physical studio space and virtual studio might work together to complement each other. The reinvention of the physical studio space could ultimately lead to the design principle of a more structured hotdesking studio, founded on mobile work patterns. Moreover, this research suggests the concept of a nomadic studio as a further development of hot-desking which institutions could adopt. The research follows a qualitative approach which employed Participatory Action Research. In order to analyse the user responses within these spaces, focus group discussions, interviews and participatory observation were carried out at a private higher education institution that has embraced an adaptive and technology-based studio environment. The findings revealed notable needs for adaptation regarding the architecture, interior and furniture elements within the identified spatial typologies of a studio. In particular, tangibility and tacit knowledge were also emphasised by the findings, namely that the immersive nomadic studio which offers students the opportunity to be present in the ‘real world’ while designing for the ‘real world’ makes a positive contribution towards empathic design needs.