In the weeks leading up to the conference, we will publish shortened abstracts from each speaker:​

Published: 21.02.25

Prof. Vésma Kontere McQuillan

Liminality of Fashion Spaces as a Framework in Research in Interior Architecture/Design

Vésma Kontere McQuillan explores the intersection of fashion and interior architecture, focusing on the spatial design of fashion shows. Her work highlights the transient, dynamic nature of fashion spaces, which blend physical and digital realms and involve diverse contributors. She introduces architectural critique to fashion analysis, emphasizing sustainability and innovation. McQuillan argues that fashion shows, as liminal spaces, offer valuable insights for interior architecture research and development, demonstrating how ephemeral fashion environments can inform and transform the discipline.

Published: 21.02.25

Prof. Chiara Lecce

How interior design comes to be investigated within the Ph.D. in Design Program of the Design Department of the Polytechnic of Milan

This essay explores the significance of interior design within the Ph.D. program at the Polytechnic of Milan's Design Department. It highlights the historical and contemporary relevance of interior design, its integration with the university's design system, and the influence of key figures like Giampiero Bosoni, Andrea Branzi, and Luciano Crespi. The essay also addresses strategic themes such as modularity, technological advancements, and social innovation, emphasizing the role of design in shaping interior spaces.

Published: 21.02.25

Prof. Torsten Hild

Building space – building knowledge

The paper discusses a sustainable approach to interior architecture, emphasizing the integration of theory and practice. It highlights the challenge of conveying tacit knowledge in the field and explores a pedagogy based on John Dewey's "Learning by doing" at HDK Valand Campus Steneby, University of Gothenburg. This method involves a cyclical process of making and reflecting, encouraging students to develop their own knowledge. The document also proposes a design method focusing on project prerequisites, promoting a holistic process and "thinking with our hands," inspired by Juhani Pallasmaa.

Published: 14.02.25

Prof. Dr. Carola Ebert

The Research-Design Nexus. Five Different Roles of Research in Interior Education

In the 21st century, interior architecture/interior design has matured as a discipline with a distinct body of knowledge and wide array of research. This presentation looks at different roles of research in interior education. Discussing examples of research-oriented pedagogy from Berlin International’s interior MA programs, it highlights how research and design can be integrated in reflective design processes and elaborates how MA students explore design research topics in written theses and concurrent design projects. The talk emphasises the importance of research-based interior education in advancing the field and preparing students for future professional practice and PhD programs alike.

Published: 14.02.25

Prof. Graeme Brooker

Substance as Method: Reverse Normative Research

This paper explores the concept that reusing existing buildings is fundamental to interior formation. It proposes that reuse processes redefine research methods by reversing normative processes. Elements found or in-situ are reused to provide answers, with agents critiquing and proposing their recirculation. The paper highlights how these reverse normative methodologies are unique and essential to the subject, shaping disciplinary research and knowledge, especially when reuse is considered a core substance. Key terms include reuse pedagogies, anastylosis, spolia, harvest map, mudlarking, and waste.

Published: 14.02.25

René Pier

Introduction; Research in interior architecture/design

Reflecting on contemporary society, interior architects/designers face the challenge of connecting to strengthen the profession. The Substance conference will showcase BCSP Projects and the University of Antwerp's spider model research on interior architecture regulation. The 2020 Charter of Interior Architecture training, divided into three parts, covers the profession's history, definition, and required skills. The appendix includes a matrix for core study and research aspects to prepare for future challenges.

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