Elements and Principles of Design:

The fundamental elements: space, line, form, light, color, texture, pattern.

The guiding principles: balance, proportion, rhythm, emphasis, harmony, unity.

Applying these elements and principles to create aesthetically pleasing and functional interiors.

Spatial Planning Basics:

Understanding scale and proportion in relation to furniture and room layout.

Creating functional traffic flow and circulation patterns.

Developing basic floor plans and furniture layouts.

Considering ergonomic principles in space planning.

Colour Theory and Application

In-depth Colour Theory:

The colour wheel, colour relationships (complementary, analogous, triadic, etc.).

Understanding colour psychology and its impact on mood and perception.

Exploring warm, cool, and neutral colour palettes.

Creating colour schemes for different rooms and purposes.

Applying Colour in Interiors:

Selecting appropriate paint colours, wallpapers, and other wall treatments.

Using colour effectively in furniture, textiles, and accessories.

Considering the impact of natural and artificial light on colour perception in homes.

Understanding local colour preferences and trends.

Materials and Finishes

Hard Finishes:

Flooring options: tiles (ceramic, porcelain, natural stone), wood (solid, engineered), laminate, vinyl, carpets. Considerations for the climate and lifestyle.

Wall finishes: paint, wallpaper, panelling, plaster, textured finishes.

Countertops: granite, marble, quartz, laminate, wood.

Understanding the properties, applications, and maintenance of various hard finishes available

Soft Furnishings:

Textiles: natural (cotton, linen, wool, silk) and synthetic fibres. Understanding their properties, durability, and suitability for different applications (upholstery, curtains, rugs).

Window treatments: curtains, blinds, shutters. Considering light control, privacy, and aesthetic

Rugs and carpets: different types, materials, and their impact on a space.

Upholstery: fabric selection, durability, and style considerations.

Furniture and Accessories

Furniture Styles and History:

Exploring various furniture styles (e.g., contemporary, traditional, mid-century modern, industrial, African-inspired).

Understanding the historical context and key characteristics of different styles.

Identifying quality furniture construction and materials.

Selecting and Arranging Furniture:

Considering scale, proportion, and function when choosing furniture.

Creating balanced and functional furniture layouts.

Understanding traffic flow and conversational groupings.

Accessories and Styling:

The role of accessories in adding personality and finishing touches.

Selecting and arranging decorative objects, artwork, plants, and lighting.

Creating vignettes and styling surfaces effectively.

Incorporating local crafts and design elements.

Lighting Design

Principles of Lighting:

Understanding different types of light (ambient, task, accent).

The impact of light on mood, functionality, and visual perception.

Light temperature and colour rendering index (CRI).

Lighting Fixtures and Placement:

Exploring various lighting fixtures (ceiling, wall, floor, table lamps).

Planning appropriate lighting placement for different areas of a home.Considering energy efficiency and sustainability in lighting choices

Controlling Light:

Dimmers, switches, and smart lighting systems.

Utilizing natural light effectively through window treatments and room design.

Drafting and Presentation Skills

Basic Technical Drawing:

Learning to create accurate floor plans and elevations.

Understanding standard architectural symbols and conventions.

Using basic drafting tools (manual or digital).

Visual Communication:

Developing concept boards and mood boards to communicate design ideas.

Selecting and presenting samples of materials, finishes, and furniture.

Creating visual presentations for clients.

Verbal Communication and Client Interaction:

Effective communication techniques for understanding client needs and presenting design proposals.

Building rapport and managing client expectations.

Professional etiquette and communication in the business context

Project Management and Business Basics

Project Planning and Execution:

Developing timelines and budgets for interior decorating projects.

Coordinating with suppliers, contractors, and other professionals.

Managing installations and ensuring project completion.

Business Fundamentals for Decorators:

Setting up a small interior decorating business

Pricing services and creating invoices.

Basic marketing and self-promotion strategies.

Understanding legal and financial considerations.