Interior environments are rendered visible through light and shadow. Luminaires used to illuminate these spaces possess specific characteristics that contribute significantly to the totality of interior experience. This course examines how these design variables, including color, tone, material, scale, form, and gesture, establish the perceived identity of the luminous object and how its physical presence and luminous output impact the greater interior environment. We will actively use Design Thinking methodologies to interrogate design propositions and explore Circular Economies to better understand the long-term impacts of our design decisions. Our research expands beyond an object-focus to include Environmental Psychology, which offers an understanding of how and why humans respond to specific spatial conditions. Students will work empirically, conducting full-scale maquettes that use selected light sources and materials to explore form in relation to a specific interior condition. The final project will be the fabrication of a full-scale working prototype that is designed in response to a self-written brief. Knowledge of the Making Center, tool use, and fabrication processes is beneficial but not required. Similarly, there are no prerequisites for lighting or electrical systems.

Interior environments are rendered visible through light and shadow. Luminaires used to illuminate these spaces possess specific characteristics that contribute significantly to the totality of interior experience. This course examines how these design variables, including color, tone, material, scale, form, and gesture, establish the perceived identity of the luminous object and how its physical presence and luminous output impact the greater interior environment. We will actively use Design Thinking methodologies to interrogate design propositions and explore Circular Economies to better understand the long-term impacts of our design decisions. Our research expands beyond an object-focus to include Environmental Psychology, which offers an understanding of how and why humans respond to specific spatial conditions. Students will work empirically, conducting full-scale maquettes that use selected light sources and materials to explore form in relation to a specific interior condition. The final project will be the fabrication of a full-scale working prototype that is designed in response to a self-written brief. Knowledge of the Making Center, tool use, and fabrication processes is beneficial but not required. Similarly, there are no prerequisites for lighting or electrical systems.