Work

Developing Visual Literacy in the First-Year Interior Design Studio

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Visual literacy remains a vital component of today’s image-driven design landscape, yet it continues to be an evolving area of focus within interior design education. This paper presents a first-year studio model emphasizing the importance of teaching students to analyze and creatively apply inspiration imagery critically. Students designed a nightclub in South Australia, using curated images examined through formal aesthetics, color theory, Gestalt psychology, sociology, symbolism, and phenomenology. This approach helped students move beyond imitation, fostering deep engagement and innovative, context-sensitive designs. By integrating theory analysis and creation, the studio offers a robust framework for cultivating visual literacy in interior design.

Source: Journal of Interior Design

DOI: 10.1177/10717641251324234

Author: Jack Tooley

Institution: University of South Australia

Language: English

Topic: Architecture, Design, and Social History

Subfield: Conservation

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650