How can an interdisciplinary approach to regenerative design transform creative practice, pedagogy and promote a transition to more sustainable design practices in fashion and interiors?

Ryan, Karen Michelle, Fallouh, Susan and Wilmot, Katie (2023) How can an interdisciplinary approach to regenerative design transform creative practice, pedagogy and promote a transition to more sustainable design practices in fashion and interiors? International Journal of Art & Design Education.

Abstract

The purpose of this research study is to reflect on a co-designed renewal workshop which brings together architecture, interior architecture, fashion and textile undergraduates to produce an interdisciplinary regenerative design project, exploring innovative and experimental design processes and lifecycles. Created to incorporate tutorials; guest speakers; workshops; collaboration and shared practice, the renewal workshop aims to promote regenerative design practice culminating in an exhibition and celebration of the student’s final work. Exploring innovative pedagogy this study addresses the following research question (RQ): How could interdisciplinary co-design and hands-on making impact undergraduates' creativity in implementing regenerative design principles and transforming their approach to design across Fashion and Interiors?We are promoting an interdisciplinary approach to curriculum integration that dissolves the boundaries between the conventional disciplines and organises teaching and learning around the construction of meaning in the context of real-world problems or themes (UNESCO). Regenerative design uses whole systems thinking to create resilient and equitable systems that integrate the needs of society with nature. The successful adoption of regenerative design requires collaborative and interdisciplinary work. In light of the climate emergency, this is urgently needed. Empowering the next generation of designers in the fields of architecture, interior architecture, fashion, and textiles with a regenerative design mindset, tools, and practices is essential for their application in both specialist and non-specialist communities.The workshop forms the basis of the research on which the primary research is founded and aims to test an interdisciplinary design toolkit which can be implemented in professional practice, design education, and other disciplines. This implies testing the main steps, procedures, and required conditions to achieve interdisciplinary integration of practice and is based on previous research: “Fashioning Space: Transforming the Use of Textiles and Their Inherent Properties by Integrating Spatial and Garment Design Practices in Space Design and Fabrication”(Fallouh, 2021).Primary data will be generated via the design outcomes created, and the students’ reflective practice, measuring the stages and processes of an interdisciplinary approach to regenerative design as the project progresses using mixed comparative and autoethnographic methods. We also plan to use observation/participant observation and interviews with the necessary ethical approval and consent.This research is important in connecting academic learning with workplace learning, equating to professional practice. Integrated learning leads to skills development and prompts critical thinking and self-evaluation, essential tools as a professional practitioner in architecture/interiors and fashion and textiles, which contribute to the economy, society, culture, public policy or services, beyond academia. The anticipated research outcomes include a suggested toolkit for integrating regenerative design principles in undergraduate design education within the fields of interiors, fashion and textiles, contributing to transferable practice across design education, demonstrating that interdisciplinary practice is not exhaustive in its subject area reach for influence, views and future impact.

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Contributors

Author: Karen Michelle Ryan

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