Design Fundamentals : Geometry & Visualization

About this class

This course, Design Fundamentals: Geometry & Visualization, addresses a common challenge faced by participants: the difficulty in visually representing their work through diagrams and graphical means. It introduces essential design principles through geometry and conceptual thinking, covering topics such as conceptual forms and diagrams, geometry in design with a focus on projects like the Pentactive fabric enclosure, and various graphical presentation techniques, including plans and axonometric drawings. Students will also explore mapping and site analysis to understand spatial relationships and context. Throughout the course, participants will develop skills in visualizing complex ideas, applying geometric principles, creating effective graphical presentations, and conducting site analyses. The interactive nature of the class fosters collaboration and innovation, making it an engaging learning experience. By joining, students will gain a solid foundation in design, enhance their creativity, and be well-prepared for real-world design challenges.

A free online taster will be taking place on September 23, 2025.

Class Outline

Week 1

• Topic: Introduction
  • Introduce conceptual thinking and graphical representation.
• Objective:
  • Understand the importance of conceptual forms & diagrams.
  • Explore basic geometric concepts.
  • Learn fundamental graphical presentation techniques.

Week 2

• Topic: Conceptual Forms and Diagrams
  • Conceptual forms visually represent ideas to communicate design intent.
• Objective:
  • Foster creativity and innovation through visual representation.
  • Develop skills in translating concepts into diagrams.
• Tasks/ Visuals:
  • Create a simple conceptual diagram based on a given theme.
  • Present diagrams to the class for feedback.

Week 3

• Topic: Exploring Geometry in Design
  • Investigate basic geometric shapes and their significance in design.
• Objectives:
  • Understanding geometric shapes and their applications in design.
  • Analyze how geometry influences aesthetics and functionality.
• Tasks/ Visuals:
  • Compile a set of images to investigate various types of geometric forms.
  • Discuss how these shapes enhance design.

Week 4

• Topic: Geometry and Concept Design
  • Define the relationship between geometry and concept design.
• Objectives:
  • Engage with geometry to enhance conceptual design skills.
  • Explore the role of geometry in innovative design thinking.
• Tasks/ Visuals:
  • Develop a geometric-based design project that incorporates conceptual thinking.

Week 5

• Topic: Graphical Presentations
  • Define graphical presentations and their importance in design.
  • Types of drawings (plans, sections, details, and axonometric drawings).
• Objectives:
  • Communicates complex design ideas effectively.
  • Engages audiences and stakeholders.
• Tasks/ Visuals:
  • Guided practice on drawing techniques; students produce initial sketches.
  • Students create a simple plan and section of an existing space or chosen area

Week 6

• Topic: Mapping and Site Analysis
  • Importance of site context and spatial relationships.
• Objectives:
  • Understand site context and its implications for design.
  • Analyze spatial relationships and patterns through mapping.
• Tasks/ Visuals:
  • Conduct a mini-site analysis using mapping techniques.

Week 7

• Topics: Digital Design Tools
  • Introduction to digital design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, Adobe Photoshop, etc).
• Objectives:
  • Gain familiar with digital tools and their applications in design.
  • Learn basic functions and tools in the mentioned software.
• Tasks/ Visuals:
  • Hands-on sessions for students to practice using the software.
  • Create a digital presentation of the sketches and ideas, showcasing the understanding of digital tools.
• Materials: Laptops/PCs with the mentioned software installed.

Week 8

• Topics: Proactive Engagement and Final Presentations
• Objectives:
  • Utilize collaborative exercises to foster teamwork and idea sharing.
  • Encourage peer reviews and constructive discussions.
• Tasks/ Visuals:
  • Students prepare and deliver final presentations of the design projects.
  • Facilitate a class discussion and feedback session to reflect on the learning journey and key takeaways from the course.

Materials needed

Please note: VCUarts Qatar reserves the right to cancel classes that do not meet the minimum enrollment requirements. Any fees already paid will be refunded.

Items to Purchase for This Class

• Laptop
• Drawing Tools: White board, white board markers, sketch book, pencils, technical pens, erasers, and rulers for sketching and diagramming.
• Manual Crafting Supplies: Tracing paper, scissors, cutting blade, cutting matt, cardboard, nails, hammer, thread, white cork, adhesive/super glue
• Digital Tools: Software licenses or subscriptions for design applications. e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, Adobe Photoshop, etc).
  

VCUarts Qatar can provide laptops for participants who do not have their own; however, availability is limited. When registering, kindly indicate if you require one.

Schedule

Start: Tue, 07 Oct, 2025
End: Tue, 25 Nov, 2025
Lessons: 8
Days: Tuesdays
Time: 5:00-7:00pm
Location: VCUarts Qatar Campus
Cost: QAR 850

Instructors