Beyond the Basics Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 1: Beyond the Basics
Unit: Design Studio
Lesson Overview
This lesson bridges the 6th-grade focus on Foundations (systems, plumbing, green building) with the 7th-grade focus on Application (aesthetics and user-centered design). Students will review green building concepts and be introduced to the Design Thinking process.
Learning Goals
Recall 6th-grade sustainable building concepts.
Define the stages of the Design Thinking process.
Distinguish between structural "systems" and aesthetic "choices."
Materials Needed
Lesson 1 Slides
"Design Thinking" Organizer
Chart paper/Markers
Lesson Outline
00-10
Introduction & Bridge
Teacher Script: "Last year, we looked at how buildings work—the plumbing, the insulation, the green technology that keeps them standing and efficient. This year, we’re moving inside. We’re asking: How does a building serve the person living in it? How does it make them feel?"
Review: What makes a building 'green'? (Efficiency, materials).
Transition: Aesthetics affect mental health and functionality.
10-20
Introducing Design Thinking
Walk through the 5 phases: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, Test.
Key Concept: Interior designers don't just pick colors they like. They pick colors that solve a problem for a specific client.
20-45
Activity: The User Interview
Students pair up and use the "Design Thinking Organizer."
Empathize: Ask "What do you like to do in your dream room? How do you want to feel?"Define: Write a specific needs statement.Ideate/Prototype: 3 quick ideas and 1 final sketch.
45-50
Quick Look: Texture Reference
Briefly show the "Texture Visual Guide" swatches (detailed in Lesson 3) as a preview of the "Design Tools" we will use this unit.
Plush
Glass
Grain
Silk
Pro-Tips
6th Grade Connection: Use the term "Vertical Alignment." Explain they are graduating from the bones to the soul of the home.
Design Thinking: Emphasize that Empathy is the most important step. If we don't understand the user, the design fails.
Beyond the Basics Slides Beyond the Basics
7th Grade Interior Design: Day 01
"Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works." — Steve Jobs
The Bridge
6th Grade vs. 7th Grade
6th Grade: Foundations
Structural Systems (HVAC, Plumbing)
Green Building & Sustainability
Blueprints & Logistics
"How does it stand up?"
7th Grade: Application
User-Centered Design (Aesthetics)
Psychology of Space & Color
Comfort & Functionality
"How does it feel to live here?"
The Design Thinking Process
1
Empathize
Understand the user's needs.
2
Define
State the problem clearly.
3
Ideate
Brainstorm many solutions.
4
Prototype
Build a representation.
5
Test
Get feedback & improve.
Activity: The User Interview
Pair up with a partner. You are the designer; they are the client. Your goal is to design their "Dream Chill Space."
Ask These Questions:
• What do you do for fun in this space?
• How do you want to feel when you're there?
• What colors or vibes do you dislike?
Time Limit: 5 Minutes
05:00
Switch roles when the buzzer sounds!
Key Takeaway
Good design starts with Empathy. We don't design for ourselves; we design for the User.
Design Thinking Organizer Design Thinking Process
Activity: User Empathy Interview
Name:
Date:
Phase 1
Empathize: Interview Your Client
Interview your partner about their "Dream Chill Space." Write their answers below.
What activities will you do in this space?
How do you want to feel when you walk in?
Specific colors or items to include/avoid?
Phase 2
Define
Write a "Needs Statement" for your partner.
Phase 3
Ideate
Brainstorm 3 quick ideas to solve their needs.
Phase 4
Prototype: Quick Sketch
Sketch one vision for your client's space based on your interview.
Final Reflection
What was the hardest part of designing for someone else rather than yourself?
Design Studio 7th Grade Unit | Day 01 Organizer
Line Shape Form Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 2: Line, Shape, & Form
Unit: Design Studio
Lesson Overview
Students will learn how the most basic elements of design—Line, Shape, and Form—set the foundational mood of an interior space. By the end of the lesson, students will be able to identify these elements in professional interior photographs and explain how they influence the "vibe" of a room.
Learning Goals
Define and distinguish between Line, Shape, and Form.
Explain emotional responses to different line types.
Identify geometric vs. organic shapes in furniture.
Materials Needed
Lesson 2 Slides
"Mood Board Hunt" Worksheet
Magazines or Digital image library
Lesson Outline
00-10
Warm Up: The Line Challenge
Teacher Script: "Imagine a room with nothing but tall, sharp vertical lines. How do you feel? Design starts with these basic bones."
Vertical = Strength, formality. Horizontal = Rest, informal. Curved = Playful.
10-25
Shape vs. Form
Shape (2D) vs. Form (3D).
Geometric: Circles, squares (Orderly, modern).Organic: Natural, irregular (Comforting, whimsical).
25-45
Activity: Mood Board Hunt
Detailed Instructions: Students will select two images. Image 1 must show a dominant LINE. Image 2 must show a dominant SHAPE/FORM. For each, they must write a "Mood Analysis" sentence.
Teacher Check: Circulate to ensure students aren't just identifying the object (e.g. "it's a chair"), but the design element (e.g. "it's an organic form").
45-50
Closing: Design Discussion
Ask: "If you wanted to make a tiny doctor's office feel more friendly, would you use more vertical lines or more organic forms? Why?"
Designer's Tip
Encourage students to look at the negative space between lines. Sometimes the lines created by the shadows or the gaps between furniture are just as powerful as the furniture itself!
Line Shape Form Slides Lines & Shapes
The "Bones" of a Room
The Language of Lines
Vertical
Height, strength, and formality. Think of skyscrapers or tall columns.
Horizontal
Rest, calm, and stability. Think of the horizon or a long sofa.
Curved
Softness, playfulness, and organic flow. Think of natural plants.
Shape vs. Form
Shape
2-Dimensional (Length x Width)
The outline of a chair against a wall.
vs.
Form
3-Dimensional (L x W x Depth)
The chair you can actually sit in.
Geometric vs. Organic
Geometric
Man-made, orderly, and precise. Used in modern and industrial styles to show structure.
Organic
Natural, flowy, and irregular. Used to make spaces feel relaxing, soft, and comfortable.
Activity: Mood Board Hunt
Browse the provided images or magazines. Find two specific examples for your worksheet:
1
An image with Strong Dominant Lines (Vertical, Horizontal, or Curved).
2
An image with Geometric or Organic Form .
Goal: Explain how that element makes the room FEEL.
Mood Board Hunt Worksheet Mood Board Hunt
Element Investigation: Line, Shape, & Form
Name:
Instructions: Find two different room images. Analyze how lines and shapes create a specific "vibe." Use clear, legible handwriting.
1 Dominant Line Analysis
Vertical • Horizontal • Curved
Paste Image Here
Identified Line Type:
Where is it seen? (Furniture, wall, etc.):
Mood Analysis (How does it make you feel?):
2 Shape & Form Analysis
Geometric • Organic
Paste Image Here
Geometric or Organic?:
Key Form (Describe the 3D objects):
Mood Analysis (How does it make you feel?):
Pro Designer Tip: Use vertical lines to make small ceilings feel higher, and horizontal lines to make narrow rooms feel wider!
Session 02 Hunt
Texture and Space Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 3: Texture & Space
Unit: Design Studio
Lesson Overview
Students investigate how Texture adds depth and physical comfort to a room, and how Space Planning (the arrangement of objects) determines if a room is functional or frustrating.
Learning Goals
Distinguish between tactile and visual texture.
Identify how textures evoke different moods.
Explain "Circulation" in floor plans.
Materials Needed
Lesson 3 Slides & Lab Guide
Reading: "Tactile Terrain"
Sample swatches (fabric, wood)
Lesson Outline
00-10
Intro: Sensory Design
Script: "A room can be beautiful but uncomfortable. Today we solve that with texture."
10-25
Texture Lab & Reading
Students read "Tactile Terrain." Then, they rotate through 5 stations to identify sample swatches.
Tip: Use diverse swatches like sandpaper, velvet, tile, and wool.
25-45
Space Planning Challenge
Explain that a room is a 3D puzzle. Use the "Space Flow Lab" activity.
Constraint: All walkways must be 3 feet wide (scale grid).Goal: Direct path from entry to key functional zones.
45-50
Conclusion: Check for Flow
Quick check: Where do you put the "White Space" (empty space) in a bedroom? Why?
Differentiation
Visual Learners: Have them draw the "invisible highway" (circulation path) in red on their floor plan before adding furniture.
Texture and Space Slides Texture & Space
Feel and Flow
Two Types of Texture
Tactile
The Physical feeling of a surface. Rough, smooth, soft, or prickly.
"If I touch it, what do I feel?"
Visual
The Appearance of texture. Wood grain, marble patterns, or printed fabrics.
"Does it look like it has a texture?"
Texture & Mood
🧶
Soft/Nubby
Cozy, Warm, Safe
💎
Smooth/Shiny
Clean, Modern, Cold
🧱
Rough/Brick
Rustic, Strong, Old
✨
Silk/Velvet
Luxury, Elegant, Formal
Space Planning
Circulation Paths
The invisible "roads" people walk to get from one door to another. Never block these with furniture!
Negative Space (White Space)
The empty space in a room. It lets the eye rest and prevents a room from feeling cluttered.
FLOW
Texture Lab Time
1. Read "Tactile Terrain"
Understand how designers use "visual weight" to balance a room.
2. The Lab Guide
Examine the swatches or images. Identify their type and their "vibe."
Tactile Terrain Reading Tactile Terrain
Interior Design Reading Series • Lesson 03
When you walk into a room, your eyes are the first to explore, but your sense of touch is never far behind. Interior designers call this the tactile environment . While color and light provide the first impression, it is texture that truly defines the "comfort level" of a home. Texture in design is divided into two distinct categories: tactile (physical) and visual.
The Physical Touch
Tactile texture refers to the actual, three-dimensional feel of a surface. Imagine the difference between walking barefoot on a plush rug versus a polished concrete floor. The rug provides warmth and a sense of "coziness." The concrete, however, feels cool and communicates a "modern" vibe. Designers use these physical feelings to manipulate how a user behaves. A library might use soft, fabric-covered chairs to encourage long periods of sitting, while a fast-food restaurant might use hard plastic seating to encourage quick turnover.
Tricking the Eye
Visual texture is the illusion of a physical texture. It is the "perceived" surface quality. A wallpaper might look like rough, weathered brick, but feel perfectly smooth to the touch. This is used when a designer wants the aesthetic of a material without the maintenance or weight of the real thing. Visual texture adds visual weight to a room. Heavy textures (like thick wool) draw the eye and make objects seem larger. Light textures (like glass) make objects feel airy.
Space: The Final Frontier
Space planning is the invisible skeleton of design. It is not just about where the sofa goes, but how a human body moves around it. Designers focus on Circulation Paths —the clear walkways needed to move between doors and functional areas. A standard path needs to be at least 32 to 36 inches wide. Beyond movement, designers value Negative Space . Just as a sentence needs spaces between words to be readable, a room needs empty space to be "livable." Without it, the brain feels overwhelmed by sensory input.
Reader Reflections
1. Explain the difference between tactile and visual texture in your own words.
2. Why might a designer choose a visual texture (like marble-print laminate) over the real tactile material?
3. What is a "Circulation Path," and why is it important for functionality?
Texture Lab ID Guide Texture Lab ID Guide
Classification & Mood Analysis
Name:
Sample # Texture Type Physical Quality The "Vibe" / Mood 01 Tactile
Visual
| | |
| 02 |
Tactile
Visual
| | |
| 03 |
Tactile
Visual
| | |
| 04 |
Tactile
Visual
| | |
| 05 |
Tactile
Visual
| | |
Texture Identification Tool
Smooth Reflection, clean lines, cold to touch. (Glass, Metal, Silk)
Rough Deep shadows, irregular surface, warm. (Brick, Reclaimed wood, Burlap)
Plush Soft, rounded, creates comfort. (Velvet, Wool, Shag)
Contrast Challenge
Pick two samples that are opposite. Explain how using them together in one room makes the design better.
Space Flow Activity Space Flow Lab
Circulation & Function Activity
Name:
The Problem
Below is a poorly planned studio apartment. The circulation paths (how you move) are blocked. The user constantly bumps into furniture.
Analyze the "Broken" Plan
ENTRY
SOFA
SINK
TABLE
CLUTTER
Your Mission
Redraft the Flow
Redraw the furniture layout. Ensure a clear 3-foot path (approx 1.5 grid squares) from the Entry to the Sink. Use white space to keep it open.
Standard: 36" Walkways
Session 03: Layout Logic
Color Psychology Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 4: Psychology of Color
Unit: Design Studio
Lesson Overview
This lesson dives into Color Theory as a psychological tool. Students learn how Hue, Value, and Saturation can physically and emotionally change a person's experience in a room.
Learning Goals
Identify Hue, Value, and Saturation.
Distinguish Warm vs. Cool color psychology.
Design a justified "Mood Palette."
Materials Needed
Lesson 4 Slides
Mood Palette Worksheet
Color pencils/samples
Lesson Outline
00-10
Warm Up: Color Temperature
Script: "A blue room feels 5 degrees cooler than a red one. Color isn't just paint—it's energy."
10-25
Hue, Value, Saturation
Hue: The name. Value: Tints/Shades. Saturation: Intensity.
25-50
Activity: Mood Palette Design
Students select a scenario (Playroom, Bedroom, Office, Nook) and create a 3-color palette. They must explain why their choices solve the client's needs.
Psychological Color Key
Blue: Trust, Calm. Red: Power, Pulse.
Yellow: Logic, Joy. Green: Health, Growth.
Wrap Up: Ask "How would a highly saturated red bedroom affect sleep?"
Color Psychology Slides Psychology of Color
The Power of Hue
The Three Ingredients
Hue
The Name of the color. Red, Blue, Yellow.
Value
The Lightness or Darkness of a color.
Saturation
The Intensity or Brightness of a color.
Temperature
Warm
Advance toward the viewer. Make a room feel cozy, smaller, and higher energy.
Cool
Recede away from the viewer. Make a room feel larger, calm, and quiet.
The Meaning of Color
Red
Excitement, Power, Hunger.
Blue
Peace, Trust, Calm.
Green
Balance, Nature, Freshness.
Yellow
Optimism, Energy, Focus.
Purple
Luxury, Wisdom, Mystery.
Gray
Modern, Clean, Neutral.
Activity: Mood Palette
Choose ONE scenario below and create a 3-color palette that solves the client's goal.
1. The Energetic Gym
Needs: High intensity, pulse-pounding energy, movement.
2. The Sleep Therapy Room
Needs: Extreme calm, trust, slow heart rate.
3. The Creative Studio
Needs: Inspiration, playfulness, unique social vibes.
4. The Math Lab
Needs: Intense focus, logical thinking, low distraction.
JUSTIFY using terms: Hue, Value, Saturation, Warm, or Cool.
Mood Palette Worksheet Mood Palette Designer
Psychological Color Application
Name:
1 Step 1: Choose Your Scenario
A. Energetic Gym
B. Therapy Room
C. Creative Studio
D. Math Lab
My Selected Scenario:
2 Step 2: Create Your Palette
Accent 1
Primary Hue
Accent 2
3 Step 3: Psychological Justification
Why did you choose your primary color? (Mention Value and Temperature)
How do the accent colors support the mood? (Mention Saturation)
Warm = High Pulse
Cool = Low Pulse
Balance and Rhythm Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 5: Balance & Rhythm
Unit: Design Studio
Lesson Overview
Students learn the Principles of Design —the "rules" for arranging Elements. We focus on Balance (Symmetrical vs. Asymmetrical) and Rhythm (Visual Movement).
Learning Goals
Identify Symmetrical vs. Asymmetrical balance.
Define Emphasis (Focal Points).
Explain Rhythm in layout.
Materials Needed
Lesson 5 Slides & Reading
Room Critique Checklist
Professional Room Gallery
Lesson Outline
00-10
Warm Up: The First Glance
Script: "Focal points are like magnets for your eyes. Where does yours go first in this room?"
10-25
Principles: Balance & Rhythm
Script: "Think of balance like a seesaw. If you have a massive leather sofa on one side, you can't just leave the other side empty. You balance it with smaller weights, like a chair and a tall lamp. Rhythm is the beat of the room—it guides your eye from the rug to the pillows."
25-45
The Great Critique
Students work in groups to analyze photos using the Checklist. They must identify the balance type and justification.
45-50
Pacing Tip: The Seesaw Analogy
Always use physical objects for the seesaw analogy. A heavy person (sofa) vs. three toddlers (chairs/decor).
Next Lesson: Scenario Intro & Designing for the User!
Balance and Rhythm Slides Balance & Rhythm
The Rules of Harmony
Symmetrical Balance
Also called Formal Balance . Imagine a line drawn down the middle. Both sides are identical mirrors.
"Creates a sense of order, quiet, and importance."
Asymmetrical Balance
Also called Informal Balance . The "Visual Weight" is equal, but the objects are different. One large item balanced by smaller items.
"Feels more relaxed, modern, and energetic."
Rhythm
Repeating an element (like color or shape). This makes your eye dance around the space.
Emphasis
Every room needs a Focal Point . It tells the viewer: "Look here first!"
The Great Critique
Use your Critique Checklist to analyze the professional room photos around the classroom.
Key Question:
"If you removed the focal point, would the room still feel balanced?"
Design Rules Reading The Rules of Harmony
Interior Design Reading Series • Lesson 05
You have studied the ingredients: Line, Color, and Texture. But how do you combine them? Designers use the Principles of Design to organize these elements. The two most vital principles for creating a professional feel are Balance and Rhythm.
Finding the Center
Balance is the distribution of visual weight . Think of it like a playground seesaw. If you have a large sofa on one side, that side has a lot of visual weight. To create balance, you must "weight" the other side.
Symmetrical Balance is formal and orderly. If you put two identical lamps on either side of a bed, you have created a mirror image. This makes a room feel grand. Asymmetrical Balance is more informal. You might balance one large cabinet on the left with two smaller paintings and a plant on the right. The "weight" is equal, even though the items are different.
The Eye's Journey
Rhythm is what gives a room its energy. It is the repetition of elements that helps the eye move seamlessly from one part of the room to another. If you use the same shade of green in the pillows, the rug, and a vase, you have created rhythm. The eye "hops" from one green item to the next, connecting the space together.
Stop and Look
Without Emphasis , a room can feel aimless. Emphasis is the focal point. It tells the viewer, "Look here first!" A designer might create emphasis using a bold accent wall, a fireplace, or a massive piece of art.
Design Theory Quiz
1. Describe a room in your own house that uses Symmetrical Balance.
2. Explain how a designer can use Rhythm to unify a very large space.
3. What happens if a room has NO focal point? How would a user feel?
Room Critique Checklist Room Critique Checklist
Analyzing Principles of Design
Team:
Instructions: Your team will evaluate a "Gallery Image." Score each section from 1 to 5 based on how well the principle is applied. Provide evidence from the photo.
Gallery Image ID: _______
1. Balance Score
1
2
3
4
5
Symmetrical
Asymmetrical
Evidence (Describe objects that balance each other):
2. Rhythm Score
1
2
3
4
5
Evidence (What elements or colors repeat?):
3. Focal Point Check
Yes
No
Identify the Focal Point:
Final Verdict
Would this room be comfortable to live in?
Designing for User Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 6: Designing for the User
Unit: Design Studio | Day: 6 of 10
Lesson Overview
Students pivot from theoretical design to practical application. This lesson focuses on The Empathy Phase —analyzing client needs, lifestyle, and constraints to create a design that solves a specific problem.
Learning Goals
Evaluate a client brief for functional needs.
Identify design constraints (space, accessibility).
Synthesize goals into a Design Vision.
Materials
Lesson 6 Slides
"Project Scenarios" Briefs
Empathy Map Organizer
Lesson Outline
00-10
Warm Up: Client Challenges
"Designers don't pick what they like; they pick what the client needs."
10-20
Scenario Intro
Students select their client (A, B, or C). Emphasize accessibility for Scenario B.
20-45
Activity: Empathy Mapping
Identify Needs (Must-haves) and Wants (Desire-haves).
45-50
Modeling the Vision Statement
Teacher Example: "My design will solve Leo's clutter problem by using vertical storage and modular furniture to create an airy, productive workspace."
Professional Insight
Encourage students to "read between the lines." If a client says they are a "Digital Nomad," they value power outlet placement and multi-functional space more than decorative art.
Designing for User Slides Design for the User
Culminating Project Kickoff
The Shift
Lessons 1-5
"I like this color."
"This line looks cool."
Focus: Design Rules
Lessons 6-10
"The client needs comfort."
"The space must be accessible."
Focus: User Empathy
Step 1: Empathy Mapping
Functional Needs
What does the user DO in this room? Work, sleep, play, or host guests?
Emotional Wants
How does the user want to FEEL ? Powerful, safe, inspired, or relaxed?
Real Constraints
What are the LIMITS ? Tiny space, multi-generational users, or specific accessibility needs?
The Briefs
The Tiny House Minimalist
Maximize storage. Use neutral textures and light colors.
The Multi-Gen Suite
Safety for a grandparent. Fun for a grandchild. Accessibility is key.
The Energetic Gaming Den
Bold colors. Tech management. Soundproofing and mood lighting.
The Cozy Home Library
Warm lighting. Soft textures. Maximum comfort for long reading sessions.
Analyze Your Brief
1
Circle the Aesthetic Wants (style words).
2
Underline the Functional Needs (actions).
3
Write one Vision Statement to guide your design.
Project Scenario Briefs Worksheet Project Scenario Briefs
Client Analysis: Stage 1 Empathy
Name:
Scenario A
The Tiny House Minimalist
The Client: Leo, digital nomad. Works from a 100 sq ft van home.The Goal: Needs to hide work gear at night. Wants an "Airy" feel with no clutter. Focus on efficiency.
Scenario B
The Multi-Gen Suite
The Client: Elena (age 78) and Mateo (age 5). Guest room shared on weekends.The Goal: Safety and lighting for Elena; toy storage for Mateo. Accessibility is top priority.
Scenario C
The Energetic Gaming Den
The Client: Sam, streamer. A high-tech bedroom that serves as a professional studio.The Goal: "Electric" energy. Hide cables, look great on camera, and soundproof the walls.
My Client Choice:
A
B
C
Empathy Map Analysis
Functional Needs (Actions):
Emotional Wants (Vibe):
My Design Vision Statement:
Prompt: "My design will solve ________ by using ________ to create a ________ space."
Empathy & Definition Phase • Studio Unit 01
Space Planning Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 7: Space Planning
Unit: Design Studio
Lesson Overview
Students move into the Ideation and Prototyping phases of Design Thinking. They will draft a 2D floor plan for their chosen scenario, focusing on ergonomics, circulation paths, and the strategic placement of functional "zones."
Learning Goals
Create a scaled 2D floor plan layout.
Apply 3-foot minimum circulation paths for flow.
Group related furniture into "functional zones."
Materials Needed
Lesson 7 Slides
Drafting Grid Worksheet
Rulers/Erasers
Lesson Outline
00-10
Warm Up: Ergonomic Check
Script: "Have you ever tried to open a drawer but had to move a chair out of the way first? That's a space planning failure. Today, we make sure our design doesn't just look good—it actually works."
10-20
Zone Planning
Teach the concept of "Zones." A room shouldn't be a random collection of furniture; it should be grouped by activity.
The Sleep Zone (Bed, nightstand).
The Work Zone (Desk, storage, lighting).
The Storage Zone (Closet, drawers).
20-45
Activity: Drafting the Flow
Students draft their floor plans on the provided grid. Remind them of the "Golden Rule of 3":
3 Feet for main walkways.3 Objects to create a balanced cluster.3 Zones per multi-purpose room.
45-50
Peer Flow-Check
Students swap plans. The partner must trace the "circulation path" from the door to the window without lifting their pencil. If they hit furniture, the plan needs a fix!
Troubleshooting
Students often forget about door swings . Remind them that doors and drawers need space to open. If a bed is right next to a closet door, that closet becomes useless. Have them draw a "swing arc" for every door on their plan.
Space Planning Slides Functional Layouts
Space Planning & Flow
The Power of "Zones"
Rest Zone
Bed, nightstand, soft lighting. Position away from high-traffic doors.
Work Zone
Desk, chair, tech storage. Place near windows for natural light.
Storage Zone
Closets, shelves, cubbies. Easy to reach but out of the main path.
The 3-Foot Rule
Every room has "invisible highways" called Circulation Paths . If these are blocked, the room feels frustrating.
Golden Rules:
• Walkways: 3 feet wide.
• Door Swings: Must be clear!
• Reach: Drawers need 2 feet of space to open.
PLAN THE PATH BEFORE THE FURNITURE
Drafting Like a Pro
1
The Outline
Draw walls and windows first. Don't forget door swing arcs!
2
The Anchor
Place your largest item first (usually the bed). This "anchors" the zones.
3
The Flow
Can you get to the window? Can you reach the storage?
"A good floor plan is a roadmap to comfort."
Draft Your Floor Plan
Use your scenario grid. Remember:
Goal for Today:
Finished Pencil Draft of Your Client's Space
Floor Plan Drafting Grid Worksheet Final Drafting Grid
Scale: 1 Square = 2 Feet
Client:
3-Foot
Clear
Functional
Define Your Zones:
Circulation Check:
Drafting Phase • Studio Unit
Architectural Grid 7.0
Materials and Furnishings Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 8: Materials & Furnishings
Unit: Design Studio | Day: 8 of 10
Lesson Overview
Students complete the aesthetic vision by selecting Surface Materials and Furnishings . The focus is on the interplay between tactile and visual texture to achieve specific client mood goals.
Learning Goals
Select materials based on lifestyle/durability.
Explain the power of textural contrast.
Materials
Lesson 8 Slides
Material Selector Board
Lesson Outline
00-10
Warm Up: Durability Logic
"Design isn't just about beauty—it's about survival."
Discuss why a streamer needs soundproofing (Sam) while a grandparent needs non-slip cork or wood floors (Elena). Contrast aesthetics with "wear and tear."
10-25
Surfaces 101: Key Materials
Hardwood: Natural, warm, good for living zones. Needs rug for sound.Polished Concrete: Industrial, cold, waterproof. Good for modern streamers.Velvet/Leather: Velvet adds "Formal Luxury" and traps light. Leather is durable and "Professional/Cool."
25-45
Activity: Material Board Finalization
Students select finishes on their Selector Worksheet. They must identify one Contrast Pair (e.g. brick vs. silk).
Tip: If a student has only smooth materials, their room will look "flat" on camera or in person.
45-50
Teacher Modeling: Making Choices
"Watch as I design for Elena. I'm choosing Matte Porcelain Tile. Why? It's not slippery like polished tile, but it looks clean and modern. I'll pair it with a low-pile wool rug. The wool is soft for Mateo to crawl on, but durable enough forElena's walker. That is a design choice based on empathy."
Materials and Furnishings Slides Materials & Style
Finishing the Vision
The Two Layers
1. Surfaces
The "envelope" of the room. Fixed finishes that don't move.
Hardwood / Tile / Carpet
Paint / Wallpaper / Brick
Built-in Cabinets
2. Furnishings
The objects that move in. Textiles and decorative items.
Sofas / Chairs / Desks
Curtains / Rugs / Pillows
Lamps & Artwork
Durability vs. Aesthetic
Hardness
Can it withstand foot traffic? Is it scratch-resistant?
Example: Tile
Cleanability
Does it stain? Can you wipe it down after a spill?
Example: Leather
Comfort
Does it feel good to sit on? Does it trap heat?
Example: Velvet
Professional Tip: The Mix
Never use only one texture. Professionals use Textural Contrast for depth.
Smooth Glass
+ Rough Wood
= Design Balance
Mood Check:
Does your client want to feel Powerful ? Use heavy, dark, and hard materials.
Want to feel Calm ? Use light, soft, and natural materials.
Finalize Selections
Use the Material Board Worksheet to name your finishes. Every choice needs a "Why."
Justify Every Choice
Material and Finish Selector Worksheet Material & Finish Board
Surface Selections & Justification
Client:
Category Material Name Design Reasoning (Why?) Flooring Wall Finish Main Furniture (Sofa/Bed) Secondary Piece (Desk/Chair) Textiles (Rugs/Curtains)
Textural Contrast Audit
Identify two materials that CONTRAST:
VS
Example: Rough Brick vs. Smooth Glass
How does this pair help the mood?
Visual Sketch: Material Interaction
Quickly sketch a detail where two of your materials meet (e.g. the rug touching the floor, or a pillow on the sofa).
Material Selections • Session 08 • Design Studio Unit
Project Workday Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 9: Project Workday
Unit: Design Studio | Day: 9 of 10
Lesson Overview
This is a Synthesis Workday . Students finalize their floor plan, material board, and presentation script. Provide 1:1 consults to ensure evidence-based justifications.
Learning Goals
Synthesize design elements.
Prepare evidence-based pitch.
Materials
Project Rubric
Pitch Frame Template
Lesson Outline
00-05
Rubric Review
Explain the 3-element rule: mention color, line, and texture in the script.
05-45
Consultation Period
Consult: "Show me how Mateo stays safe in Scenario B. Which zone handles toy storage?"
Consult: "Identify your focal point. Why is it the first thing we see?"
45-50
Justification Script Frame
Teacher Model: "I designed Scenario A for Leo. My goal was to create an airy mood. I achieved this using horizontal lines in the cabinetry and light hardwood flooring for durability."
Cleanup Rule: 100% finished projects stay in portfolios overnight.
Project Workday Slides Studio Workday
The Final Polish
Project Deliverables
Floor Plan
Scaled 2D drawing with labels and path.
Material Board
Documented choices for floor, walls, and furniture.
Justification
The "Why" script for your presentation.
40 Minutes
Teachers will be circulating for 3-minute professional design consultations.
Self-Evaluation Checklist
Functional Zones are clear and labeled.
Walkways are at least 3 feet (1.5 squares).
Textural Contrast is used and justified.
Focal Point (Emphasis) is identified.
Presentation Tip:
"Use your hands to point to the circulation path on your floor plan while you talk. It helps the client visualize the space!"
The Pitch Frame
"I designed a [Space] for [Client] using [Element] to create a [Mood]. My biggest challenge was [Constraint], which I solved by..."
HUE FLOW ZONE FEEL
Tomorrow: Gallery Walk
Set up your "Design Station" before you leave today.
Floor Plan
Material List
Script
The studio is now closed. Clean up your materials!
Project Synthesis Rubric Worksheet Project Synthesis & Pitch
Final Assessment & Script Draft
Criterion Expert (5) Proficient (3) Emerging (1) Space Flow Layout perfectly scaled. 3ft paths are clear. Mostly scaled. Some narrow paths. Unscaled or cluttered. Paths blocked. Materials Strong contrast. Choice matches client brief. Matches brief. Some texture use. Doesn't match brief. Texture is flat. Psychology Hue/Value/Sat create the intended mood. Generally matches mood. Some terms used. Color doesn't support goal.
Presentation Pitch Frame
Pitch Structure:
Intro: Hello, I am __________ and I designed a __________ for __________.Goal: My main vision was to create a __________ mood for the client.Evidence: I achieved this by using __________ (Line type) and __________ (Color Choice).Function: To ensure durability/safety, I selected __________ as the flooring.Focal Point: The first thing you see is the __________ because __________.
Project Assessment • Final Pitch Draft • Studio 01
Presentations and Critique Teacher Guide Teacher Guide
Lesson 10: Presentations
Unit: Design Studio | Day: 10 of 10
Lesson Overview
The unit culminates in a Gallery Walk where students defend their solutions. Peers act as "Senior Partners," providing evidence-based critique. Focus on Test and Reflect stages.
Learning Goals
Defend choices with evidence.
Provide criteria-based feedback.
Reflect on the design process.
Materials
Gallery Walk Slides
Critique Feedback Forms
Lesson Outline
00-05
Warm Up: Professional Critique
"In a professional studio, we don't say 'I like it.' We say 'I see that you used...' Today we are professionals."
05-35
Gallery Walk Rotation
Split class into Group A (Presenters) and Group B (Visitors). Swap halfway.
Presenters: Deliver 2-minute pitch to anyone visiting.Visitors: Use Critique Form for 2 different stations.
35-50
Studio Reflection & Closing
Read feedback. Ask: "Design is a loop. What is the one thing you'd fix based on your partner's comment?"
"Design is never done, it's just due. Great work, designers!"
Facilitation
Use the "I See / I Wonder" method. "I see you used high saturation red. I wonder if that might keep the client awake too late?"
Presentations and Critique Slides The Design Showcase
Unit Project Gallery Walk
Professional Critique
Don't Say:
"I like it."
"It's pretty."
"It's bad."
Do Say:
"I see you used __________ to..."
"I wonder if __________ would help..."
"How does __________ serve the user?"
The Procedure
A
Presenters
Stand by your station. Deliver your 2-minute pitch to visitors.
B
Visitors
Review the designs. Ask questions. Complete 2 Critique Forms.
15 Minutes
Then We Swap!
What to Look For:
Can you "walk" through their floor plan easily?
Do the colors match the client's emotional goals?
Are there interesting textural contrasts?
Congratulations!
"Every room is a story. You've learned how to write them."
Peer Design Review Form Worksheet Peer Design Review
Criteria-Based Feedback Form
Reviewer:
Design Review #1
Designer:
Scenario:
I SEE: (What elements or zones did they use?)
I WONDER: (One question or suggestion for improvement)
Design Review #2
Designer:
Scenario:
I SEE: (What elements or zones did they use?)
I WONDER: (One question or suggestion for improvement)
Final Studio Reflection
Read your feedback. What is ONE thing you would change about your design if you had more time?
Peer Review Session • Studio Showcase • Unit 01
