Preface
Dr. Sing d’Arcy (Course convenor) The dissertation is a written work of scholarship that deals with the theoretical basis of the student’s proposed Graduation Project - or a topic of their choice. It demonstrates the student’s ability to thoroughly research a topic related to interiors and present a well-reasoned argument in support of a clearly stated hypothesis. Directly complementing the work students will undertake for their Interior Architecture Studio, the process of researching and writing a dissertation assists in developing an informed understanding of projects and their possibilities. The research and writing skills students have developed over the three prior years of their Program, particularly in their Interior Architecture Critical Perspectives Courses, enables them to think creatively yet logically in arguing and presenting their unique points of view in relation to the discipline of interiors and the built environment.
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Sincere thanks to supervisors of 2019
Dr. Sing d’Arcy Dr. Alanya Drummond Dr. Laurence Kimmel Dr. Belinda Dunstan
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Water in Islamic Architecture Interpretation of the utilisation of water as a contemporary design element within Islamic architecture, exclusively through the lens of the Abu Dhabi Louvre by Ateliers Jean Nouvel (c. 2017) -Marium Al Khazaaly In different centuries and in different architectural styles (and thus regions), architects of the central lands of the Muslim world have played on the art and technique of building products, in both religious and secular systems, to convey the dialogue that exists between man, nature and architecture (Salimi & Pilehvarian 2016, p.58). This has been particularly demonstrated through the use of water as an aesthetic and functional design element within the Islamic architecture of the central lands of the Muslim world spanning centuries of evolution and epochs of regional styles (Ettinghausen & Grabar 1987, p. 23). This dissertation will provide a broad
Image reference: Jasmine Al Kuttab via Khaleej Times, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Jean Nouvel
historical and geographical overview of the context of Islamic architecture as a pre-cursor for the development of contemporary forms. In particular, their utilisation of water will be evaluated to draw conclusions on the cultural importance of the material and the manner in which it has been represented in new forms. Furthermore, the Louvre Abu Dhabi will be provided as the pinnacle exemplification of modern Islamic architecture utilising water functionally and aesthetically not physically bound by traditional imagery and motifs. Ultimately, this dissertation hopes to address the manner in which water could be utilised today to attain more environmentally viable methods of passive building design.
The role and impact of interior architecture in a post disaster environment Case study of Shigeru Ban -Troy Chan This dissertation explores the role and impact of interior architecture in relation to the psychology and behaviour of survivors of natural disasters. With disasters occurring frequently in recent years, there is an urgent need to sharpen our understanding of how to appropriately rebuild the damaged communities and assist survivors to restore their daily lives within a short and demanding time-frame. As architects design a physical shelter for the survivors, this dissertation considers the therapeutic value provided by interior architects with regard to the physical and mental wellbeing of the survivors. This dissertation will firstly establish a theoretical framework based on the theories of Abraham Maslow in which human psychological needs are identified. Secondly, this theoretical framework will be applied to the discipline of interior architecture via the theories of Leon Krier
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and specific architectural characteristics that fulfill Maslow’s psychological needs will be identified through dissecting the work of Peter Zumthor, an architect who is well regarded for designing human-centric spaces that are emotionally connected. Lastly, the theoretical framework will be tested within the disaster relief environment by identifying these psychologically-supportive architectural characteristics within the temporary shelters of Shigeru Ban. This dissertation argues the important role and social responsibility of interior architecture in the context of a post disaster environment through the study of Shigeru Ban’s work in the established framework. The aim is to critique the importance of interior as an essential aspect in developing and achieving humancentred design, responding to the needs of a community in a post disaster environment, and to encourage interior architects to reach out and take part in such future projects.
Image reference: Designboom via designboom.com, Emergency Paper Partition System, Shigeru Ban
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Death Redesigned: The Non-Linear Evolution of the Crematorium in Western Europe, from Utilitarian Space to Human-Centred Design -Lara Coleman This dissertation investigates the non-linear evolution of the crematorium typology in western Europe, from a utilitarian space, embedded in modernist ideals to the prominent twenty-first-century approach, embodying human-centred design. A discussion of this evolution will bring to light that the original design of crematoria was a reflection of societal values at the time of inception. However, as a whole the evolution of the crematorium as an architectural typology is one that has not heavily been linked to shifts in the sociocultural, political or economic spirit of society in western Europe. A move towards human-centred crematorium design will be highlighted in this evolution; expressing the ability of this typology to somewhat aid in the processing of grief. A history and overview of cremation will first be explored from its earliest uses in ancient civilisations to its renewal in the late nineteenth century in western Europe; with the modern cremationist movement.
This will provide a contextual framework to discuss the rise of the crematorium. Key critiques of the typology will be presented to further understand its architectural evolution. Theories of architectural phenomenology and human-centred design will be discussed in order to construct a theoretical framework for the analysis of contemporary case studies. With a selection of architectural case studies that align with the twenty-firstcentury human-centric crematorium design approach, analysis will be undertaken to further discuss the evolution of crematoria. Through this established framework insight into the ability for architects and designers to traverse the contradiction between machine and emotion will be expressed, in order to highlight the capacity for space, specifically the crematorium, to support mourners from an array of backgrounds.
Image reference: Simone Bossi via archidaily.com, exposed crematorium furnace, KAAH Architecten
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Identity in Architecture -Christian Maurice Dan-Cuthbert The relationship between architecture and an individual or collective identity in turn influences the image of the architecture and the place. This image can be formed through either the structural elements of the architecture itself, or through direct human influence over the architecture, with the effect of shaping identity. This notion of identity in architecture is explored with ‘critical regionalism’ used as the basis for discussion and comparison - ‘critical regionalism’ was formulated in the 1800s and has, for many years, been the primary architectural theory on identity in architecture. Historical and current theories developed to explain, and views on, the relationship between architecture and identity from a range of cultural standpoints are introduced.
Image reference: Design Studio S via archilovers.com, Capsule hotels stacked capsules, Nacasa and Partners
Alexander Tzonis, Liane Lefaivre, and Kenneth Frampton’s theory of ‘critical regionalism’ and the concept of ‘genius loci’ or ‘spirit of a place’ are central to the idea of identity in architecture. Other architects subsequent views and ideas are compared and contrasted to critical regionalism, with particular reference to the views of Herrle and Schmitz. Three case studies from Japan, Iran and Australia are used to describe, analyse and illustrate visual representations of how architectural designs have been implemented in practice, with reference in particular to critical regionalism and the perceived success or otherwise of the designs.
Authenticity in Aboriginal Architectural Representation: a study of ‘Aboriginal’ buildings designed by non-Indigenous architects from 1990-2010 -Natalia Dou The extreme and multifaceted effects of colonialism on both the perceived identity and the desired identity of Aboriginal Australians has only recently begun to be theoretically examined and acknowledged by non-indigenous Australians. In order to metaphysically begin the process of reconciliation and authentic acknowledgment of indigenous populations, it is crucial that today’s Aboriginal Australians are heard and enabled to narrate their own identities and cultures, and be represented authentically in architecture. This dissertation questions what ‘authentic’ Aboriginal representation could be in this post-colonial Australian context through four case studies of projects by two nonindigenous architectural firms, George Burgess Architects and ARM Architects. Both architects work in varying levels of engagement with their Aboriginal clients
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however despite this they both enable their client to narrate their own identity and culture. To conclude each study, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous architectural critiques will be explored to better understand the relationship, and the perceived contrast, between the narrative that the relevant Indigenous community wants to put forward and how it is interpreted within the nonIndigenous architectural society. This dissertation brings to light some of the discourses existing within our contemporary Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian society, The intent of this paper is to theoretically examine how Aboriginal identity may be represented in architecture and the discourses which surround this representation. Abstract
Image reference: (left) ARM Architecture via Armarchitecture. com.au, Barack Building, ARM Architecture (right) Gregory Burgess Architects via bgarch.com.au, Uluru Kata-Tjita Cultural Centre, Gregory Burgess Architects
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The role of computational technology throughout the design process of the Civic Centre typology -Donna Helm A Civic Centre is an all-encompassing name for public buildings or areas, which may be used for a variety of reasons, but are deemed as important central hubs for the community. They play a vital role in human connectivity and establishing relationships between members of a community. The evolution and development of computational technology particularly towards the late 20th century and into the early 21st century; during which there have been rapid advances in technology and increased availability of such to society, has challenged the traditional concept of the Civic Centre typology and the means by which these are designed. This dissertation first establishes a framework based on human connectivity in which gave rise to the significance and purpose of Civic Centres, by exploring the notion of gathering and how that has developed over time to impact design. This dissertation then explores the
rise in computational technology how that has shaped the design process of important community focused structures in relation to stakeholders, designers and users. Finally, these ideas are then evidenced through a case study of a local Civic Centre; the Surry Hills Library and Community Centre that analyses the design practice within the multiple phases of the project, focusing on the needs outlined by the community. This dissertation; highlights the importance of Civic Centres in relation to individuals, groups, and community, analyses the significance of a community focused design within Western society and identifies how and why they have been successful. The concept of success within this paper is measured by community engagement through the lens of human connectivity
Image reference: John Gollings via archdaily.com, Surry Hills Library and Community Centre by FJMT Architects
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Dwellings of Dystopia: A study of post-war western architecture in filmed interiors -Vanessa Huolohan Exploring the interiors of the dwelling typology from 1980s to 2010s western dystopian cinematography, this dissertation investigates the phenomenon of historicism in filmed interiors and in particular, the impact of American post-war architecture. Establishing the individual’s emotional connection to dwelling spaces and how set producers convey that in filmed interiors, this dissertation examines how post-war architecture is integrated into filmed dwellings to epitomise the social anxieties of the era portrayed as well as how interior elements such as thresholds, furnishing and materiality are utilised to convey these concepts. Minimal extant research on the contribution of American dystopian films to the societal perception of the mid-century modern period exists, with some texts placing mid-century modern spaces in film alongside plot lines aiming to communicate debauchery and unease. This dissertation seeks to unpack the existing history of cinematography and dwelling interiors, and in the dystopian genre, how the two integrate to formulate new spaces which communicate an original story, whilst featuring an aspect of familiarity from contemporary societies recent post-war past. Utilising architecture curator Joseph Rosa’s Tearing Down the House: Modern Homes in the Movies
Image reference: Design Studio S via archilovers.com, Capsule hotels stacked capsules, Nacasa and Partners
(2000) theory on representations of architecture in film it becomes a precursor to understanding societies perception of the mid-century modern post-war architecture as the illicit space that is conveyed negatively in cinematography. Three cinematography case studies from the late twentieth century and early twenty-first century will be dissected in relation to the protagonists’ dwelling spaces. The analysis will unpack the relationships between interiority and exteriority, and how these intersecting spaces utilise cultural and embodied symbols from war and post-war periods to communicate the political thematic of the dystopian films, thus communicating an atmosphere of unease. An exploration of the existing commentary on filmed interiors, as well as the effect of collective memory in audience consumption of space, frames the analysis of dwellings in Ridley Scotts Blade Runner, Suzanne Collins’ Hunger Games and Charlie Brookers Black Mirror episode Nosedive. Thus, this dissertation aims to show that dwelling interiors formulated in western dystopian cinematography are in fact predisposed by the architecture which emerged during war and post war periods, in particular the mid- century modern movement; and that cinematography has substantially influenced the way in which society consumes the interiors of these periods and continues to influence contemporary interior architecture. Abstract
The human experience of the Japanese aesthetic of ‘mono no aware’ within Japanese interiors and its exploration within 21st - Century contemporary architecture. -Delwyn Ke
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The expression of the Japanese aesthetic of ‘Mono no aware’ and its significance within the interior of Japanese architecture.
critics, professors and philosophers will be examined and selected to use as secondary sources to inform this dissertation.
This dissertation will discuss how the expression of the Japanese aesthetic of ‘Mono no aware’ is explored within Japan’s history and its significance through the interior of Japanese architecture with regards to the human experience. This will be explored through the analysis of academic journals and articles focusing on case studies examining Japanese history and the aesthetics, and its role within interior architecture, and presented in the methodology of case studies and survey of research found. These include secondary sources, translated from Japanese to English. Furthermore, due to a limited scope for this dissertation, primary sources will not be included as time does permit this. These sources will be accessed from the University of New South Wales, University of Sydney and University of Technology Sydney and their respective databases, as well as the State Library to ensure reputable academic sources. Writings by architects, architectural
‘Mono no aware’ refers to the human experience of impermanence and the understanding of the transitory nature of things with a sense of beauty and finiteness. Although it has been a concept that has been experienced by humans since existence, the aesthetic and concept of ‘Mono no aware’ was refined during the Heian era of 794-1192 as part of the aristocratic lifestyle within the imperial court. Through literature, art and architecture the aesthetic became ingrained within Japanese culture, tradition and society. Since the Heian era, the aesthetic of ‘Mono no aware’ has continually been explored through architecture and remains as one of the most prominent key aesthetics in contemporary society. This dissertation will explore the significance of ‘Mono no aware’ and its expression within society through Japanese interiors and the human experience.
Image reference: Catherine Winter via Inhabitat, Chapel of Reconciliation, Reitermann & Sassenroth
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Legitimising Indigenous Interior Architecture. The Modernist Paradigm of ‘Form Follows Function’ and its Symbiosis with Pre-Colonial Indigenous Australian Methods of Interiority -Hayley Mallinder This dissertation seeks to validate Indigenous methods of place making through the conception of linkages between the Modernist paradigm of ‘form follows function’ and Indigenous Australian architectural technique. Through comparison of a legitimatised, widely recognised architectural movement and its subsequent spatial principles, the integrity of Indigenous Australian architectural methods is argued to be as developed, considered and established. In Chapter One the historical context of Indigenous land rights establishes a foundation for the analysis of Indigenous spatial principles. The following two chapters provide a theoretical and case study analysis to provide comparison between Indigenous methods of interiority and Modernism. The
primary Indigenous spatial principles that align to the Modernist paradigm apparent prior to colonisation include; the use of simplified form and a rational approach to materiality to promote a sense of order and equity within the interior realms. Through analysis and comparison of the Modernist architectural movement and Indigenous spatial technique, linkages are drawn to contemporary arrangement and key points are identified to further validate Indigenous methods of place-making as interior strategies. This dissertation aims to contribute to the growing academic discourse surrounding Indigenous interior architecture and its validation in contemporary Australia. Abstract
Image reference: Paul Memmott via Goodie and Wurley: The Aboriginal Architecture of Australia, Ngampirr Construction, Paul Memmott
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Phenomenology: Stimulation of Sensorial Design Experience in Contemporary Museum Spaces of the 21st Century -Maral Madanimelak Exploring the design theory concerned with sensorial experience in contemporary architecture, this dissertation investigates the philosophical study of phenomenology, in particular, how sensorial engagement in interior architecture has the ability to stimulate the consciousness of the audience through direct experience in space. The focus of this dissertation is on primordial philosophers Edmund Husserl, Martin Heidegger, and Maurice Merleau-Ponty, to highlight the three key phenomenological principals, and contemporary philosopher Shaun Gallagher, examining what these philosophical approaches have in common to address questions of conscious experience in relation to cognition.
Image reference: Julie Falconer via aladyinlondon.com, Chichu Art Museum, Tadao Ando
As the connection with the language of the body, our bodily senses, have increasingly become isolated and distant as a result of our vision, this dissertation examines some of the prominent design approaches highlighted by architect Juhani Pallasmaa and Steven Holl, exploring the sensory experience, the role of perception in space and the tactile sensations in materiality and light. This dissertation establishes the contextual framework of sensorial design to further explore the experience of contemporary museums spaces, in particular, how they create a memorable and evocative experience for visitors.
Designing for Connection: An exploration of the ways interior architectural can support social sustainability, by helping building community in contemporary urban populations -Rebecca McCarthy SUBJECT OF INVESTIGATION: Social sustainability and Interior Architecture
capacity to create an authentic sense of personal and community identity.
Designing for connection: An exploration of the ways interior architecture can support social sustainability, by helping to build community in contemporary urban populations
Using this framework, the spatial organization and interiors of three contemporary urban community centers are examined. Those developments are: the Utopia Library and Academy for Performing Arts in Aalst, Brussels (2018); the Maryland Heights Community Recreation Center in St Louis, Missouri (2017); and the Markham Library and Community Center in Toronto, Canada (2018).
The purpose of this dissertation is to explore the role of interior architecture in helping contemporary urban communities connect. Looking at sustainability through an anthropocentric lens, it explores the ways the built environment can contribute to socially sustainable community outcomes, by providing the physical structures that support and nurture good civic relations and help build an active, vibrant and diverse cultural life. It recommends a three-part framework of essential characteristics that form the foundations of socially sustainable space: the capacity to create a sense of belonging to place; the capacity to support a sense of connection to the community; and the
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The case study analysis highlights the key design principals applied, ties them back to sociological theory and the established framework, and demonstrates that interior architecture has the capacity to directly affect the quality and nature of our community interactions, helping us build strong, connected and socially sustainable urban communities.
Image reference: Utopia by Utopia Aaist, Utopia Community Centre, KAAN Architecten
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How is Mixed Reality Presented in Film Interiors? -Cathy Nguyen Mixed Reality (MR) has become a rising area of research in technological advancement and with its notable ascension, fiction such as film have already begun to explore the use of MR in interiors. This sets the topic of discussion for this dissertation which examines how MR is presented in film interiors, consequently, leads to understanding the possible future impacts of MR technology in interiors on the elements of design. The initial ground work for this dissertation begins with a literary review on the definition of MR, and discusses technology and its involvement in interiors, film interiors and future interiors. Moving forward, the initial ground work allows theoretical discussions on the elements of interiors such as minimalism, ornamentation, adaptability and, identity and place. These elements are the key themes that are applied in the case study
of the three films, Ghost in the Shell(2017)by Rupert Sanders, Blade Runner2049(2017)by DenisVilleneuve and Passengers (2016) by Morten Tyldum. These films will exemplify the way MR is presented in film interiors using the elements above to reveal its limitation and benefits in interiors and show possible outcomes of MR’s impact on future interiors and it’s users. Through the examination of the three film interiors, the dissertation aims to communicate how Mixed Reality is presented in film using the major themes of minimalism, ornamentation, adaptability and, identity and place. By undergoing this comprehensive discussion and analysis, film interiors can offer knowledge to interior architects and trigger conversation and thoughts on MR technology in the future, if it comes into existence.
Image reference: Image captured by Cathy Nguyen, Ghost in the Shell, Rupert Sanders
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Case study: of the prevalence of adaptive reuse within Sydney’s Heritage Buildings -Jose Siccion This dissertation is aimed at defining adaptive reuse and its application within Sydney. Adaptive reuse and heritage conservation are inextricably linked to each other, as such their popularity within the western world have risen and fallen many times. This is mainly due to events or movements that have influenced the popularity of the two concepts. However, it is only during contemporary age that appeal of the two concepts have continuously risen. This paper seeks to define the history of adaptive reuse and its connection to heritage conservation to supplement the on why adaptive reuse has become so beneficial and popular within Sydney’s urban landscape. The paper will explore the rise of adaptive reuse within the western world until
Image reference: Shannon Verhagen via Australian Geographic, The Queen Victoria Market Building, Governor Macquarie
focusing on Sydney’s history to give context on why adaptive reuse has become prevalent within Sydney’s heritage buildings. It will explore the nuances of adaptive reuse and the many benefits that accompany the approach it will also analyse, the guidelines and rules for adaptive reuse to reach its best outcome within its heritage site. Three case studies will be examined within this dissertation to then further support the benefits and integration of adaptive reuse within Sydney’s heritage buildings. These three case studies would be three different typologies to ensure that many different buildings that have been implemented with adaptive reuse are examined.
Fashion and the Show: The Role of Ephemeral Interiors on the Runway -Stephanie Severin This dissertation investigates the role of ephemeral interiors on the runway. Furthermore, it seeks to explore and prove that the power of transformative space design is imperative to the success of the fashion world in their pursuit of creating aesthetic merit and reflecting the ever-changing nature of fashion. An initial contextualisation of the purpose of the runway fashion show in relation to the luxury fashion brand and how the runway has evolved from its origins to the current contemporary form will form the basis for the dissertation. Through historical overview, the evolution of the fashion show is linked to the success of the contemporary luxury fashion brand and relates the show itself to the foundation of luxury fashion. The transition towards ephemeral interiors on the runway will be highlighted in this evolution; demonstrating the ability of runway ephemerae to enhance the success of the
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show, and in turn, the luxury brand. A broad theoretical framework will be established to support forthcoming analysis. Through an exploration of the fashion shows’ emergence as a theatrical production due to the development of ephemeral interior architecture, the notion of fashion as a form of entertainment is instituted. This discussion will determine the fundamental role of ephemeral interiors within the realm of the fashion show. Through the analysis of three contemporary case studies, that act as evidence to the theoretical framework foundations presented in the previous sections of this dissertation, the power of transformative spatial design is brought to light and presented as being intrinsically linked to the success of the runway show.
Image reference: Mirror filled Pavilion for Dior Spring Summer 2018 Fashion Show by Bureau Betak, Bureau Betak
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Adaptive Reuse: The Inextricable Link Between Sustainability and Heritage Preservation – with a focus on Sydney public interiors -Rebecca Waldron The process of adaptive reuse seeks to utilise existing buildings and sympathetically give them a new purpose or function. It is a way of acknowledging the past whilst catering for the future. Places that lose relevance expose themselves to neglect and decay so the idea of marrying existing structures with innovative, contemporary architecture ensures their pertinence within society. The Heritage Act was introduced in NSW in 1977 to create guidelines and limitations on additions to heritage listed structures. This legislation ensures Australia’s shared history is not lost. The built environment is detrimental in eliciting memories and recalling our past and architects and designers today are imperative in protecting that. This dissertation seeks to explore the
possible benefits of adaptive re-use through three key criteria of sustainable design; environmental, social and economic. It explores the combination of sustainable design and heritage preservation. Two contemporary examples of Sydney public interiors will be used as case studies to explore the potential benefits of adaptive re-use, The Mint by FJMT Architects and Carriageworks by TZG Architects. The analysis will be undertaken through an exploration of publication and imagery on the topic. Through this analysis, this dissertation aims to prove that existing and contemporary architecture can co-exist simultaneously, ensuring its relevance today and hereafter whilst greatly benefiting society through its sustainable design practices. Abstract
Image reference: Michael Nicholson via Heritage Council Victoria, Carriageworks Sydney, Tonkin Zulaikha Greer
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The impact of contemporary technologies in sensory space: does integrating technology have the potential to enrich our experience of civic interiors? -Breanna Wallace Exploring the impact of contemporary technologies on multi-sensory space this dissertation explores its current involvement in ocularcentric experiences as well as its potential to impact on our other senses. It argues that incorporating current and future technology into our designs has the potential to heighten our spatial experience if careful consideration is taken to ensure that technology is incorporated into the spatial design rather than as a feature added as an afterthought which has the potential to leave visitors with an unpleasant experience.
Image reference: TEAMLAB via teamlab.art, The Mori Buildings’ Borderless Digital Art, TEAMLAB
Through three chapters the dissertation will attempt to argue that incorporating future technology into our designs has the potential to heighten our spatial experience if careful consideration is taken to ensure that technology is incorporated into the spatial design rather than as a feature added as an afterthought which has the potential to leave visitors with an unpleasant experience.
Pinterest and Place: Contemporary Interior Design in the age of Pinterest -Peter Zaknic This dissertation seeks to explore connections between Pinterest and the design of contemporary interiors. It will analyse the changing nature of design influence with the introduction and popularity of the participatory-web-based platform, exploring its role as a popular visual communication tool within the global interior design community. Establishing a theoretical framework, it will explore the formulation of trends driven by the users of the site, highlighting the open nature
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of the platform used globally by professionals and amateurs alike. The dissertation will attempt to make connections between top Pinterest trends and the interior schemes of contemporary Australian interiors. In doing so, it will question the traditional hierarchy of design influence which Pinterest has come to redefine
Image reference: Francois Halard via Yellowtrace, Maison de Verre, Pierre Chareau & Beernard Bijvoet