The Design of Classroom Environment for Interior Design Students

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1) analyze factors influencing design creativity among Interior Design students; 2) design interior classroom environments that foster creative thinking processes; and 3) evaluate this designed classroom environments based on student interior design projects. The research employed a qualitative methodology, focusing on case studies within the Interior Design program, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi. Research tools included: 1. Interviews; 2. Observation; 3. Focus Group Discussions; and 4. Document Analysis. Data collected from these tools were analyzed to understand the target group's needs for design purposes. The research findings indicate: 1. Designing spaces that facilitate creative thinking encompasses: 1) identifying problems related to generating creativity; and 2) developing solutions through a spatial design process. 2. Two classroom environments were designed to enhance creative thinking: 1) an Interior Design Workshop Area; and 2) a Tangible Creativity Space. These designs aim to facilitate the perception of Interior Design students across all four academic years, encouraging them to excel in their course-related design projects. 3. The evaluation of the classroom environments, based on student interior design projects, revealed that the designs profoundly reflect an understanding of space allocation for functionality. This includes convenient access to equipment and appropriate spatial arrangements for usage areas, which effectively promote student learning and collaborative work. Furthermore, the interior designs emphasized aesthetics and beauty through harmonious color schemes and modern materials, creating a relaxing and conducive learning atmosphere for students. Concurrently, the designs supported learning and well-being by optimizing the use of natural and artificial lighting, thereby creating an appropriate interior classroom environment for Interior Design students.