Topic outline

  • Welcome to the course!


    Course overview

    The Researching Space course (10 cr) introduces research-based approaches and methods for analysis and design of space. Emphasis is particularly on user-centred, collaborative and conceptual design as applied to interior space. Teaching comprises lectures and weekly reading and design assignments focusing on topical themes in spatial design studies and practice. Students complete a design project on a study case that combines space and services in the context of living, working, leisure or care. They map the current state and future trends in the topic area and research the user needs, identify a design problem to focus on, generate alternative solution ideas and produce a more detailed design of the most viable concept. Along the way, they learn about and rehearse the utilisation of research-based approaches and methods relevant to spatial designers. The main themes in the course are:

    • Design exploration and foresight
    • Design for experience and behaviour
    • Inclusive design
    • Design for wellbeing

    Practicalities

    • The course starts on Wed 20th April and ends on Fri 27th May, 2022
    • Teaching takes place Wed and Fri between 9:15–15:00 (not always the whole day)
    • The course is organised on site in Väre, Otaniementie 14, rooms Q102 & Q203
    • Total workload of 270 hours means full time study during the period
    • See the schedule for more details (to be updated by course start)
    • We follow the university guidelines for teaching in the pandemic situation - please wear a face mask

    Contact
    Antti Pirinen
    antti.pirinen@aalto.fi