Guest Lecture - Spatial Quality in Residential Design

 

Study Trip to Paragon Carpet and De'Nation

CONNECTING DESIGN THEORY WITH REAL-WORLD PRACTICE: INTERIOR DESIGN STUDENTS EXPLORE INTERIOR PRODUCTS AND FINISHING MATERIALS

On 21 October 2025, Diploma in Interior Design students went on a field trip to Paragon Carpet Distributor in Balakong and De’Nation Interior Design Showroom in Jalan Klang Lama, where they explored the latest material innovations and gained insight into real-world production processes.

At Paragon Carpet, students gained firsthand exposure to the intricate stages of carpet manufacturing, from yarn preparation and tufting to backing and finishing. They also learned how sustainable practices, quality control, and digital design technologies are integrated into modern production processes.

Next is the visit to De’Nation further expanded students’ perspectives on interior material applications. Through exposure to a wide range of finishes, furnishings, and modern design solutions, students explored diverse interior elements such as wallpaper, curtain systems, and SPC flooring.

Diploma in Interior Design Semester 2 student Lau Yu Kee shared, “The trips to both Paragon Carpet and De’Nation were very insightful as they provided a comprehensive understanding of the production process, from the initial stages to the final outcomes.”

Similarly, Semester 3 student Chloe Lee reflected, “The field trips were very fruitful and provided valuable exposure to various materials and finishes. The visit to the carpet factory allowed us to observe firsthand how cut pile carpets are produced using specialized machinery, deepening our understanding of manufacturing processes. The interactive Q&A session at the end made the learning experience more engaging, and it was encouraging that three of us won prizes.”

Through these field trips, students learned to apply classroom knowledge to real industry practices, understand the importance of sustainable and innovative design, and see how material choices shape the look, feel, and function of a space. Students also strengthened their critical thinking and professional skills, preparing them to succeed as emerging design professionals.

Design Dialogue Recap: Exploring the Design Process with Industry Experts

On 25th June 2025, from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM, the Postgraduate Centre at First City University was filled with energy and inspiration as students gathered for an engaging Design Dialogue session. The event featured two respected professionals in the interior design field: Vienna Chew, Design Director of Millimetre Design, and Syahir Ali, Co-founder of Kort Studio.

Both speakers shared their personal design journeys and emphasized the importance of understanding and following the design process—from concept development and space planning to material selection and final execution. Students had the unique opportunity to gain firsthand insights into how top designers approach real-life projects with creativity, discipline, and strategy. Vienna Chew highlighted the significance of research and client consultation as the foundation of any successful design. She shared how clarity in the initial stages leads to smoother project management and greater client satisfaction. Meanwhile, Syahir Ali spoke about the value of iterative design and how embracing feedback throughout the process results in more thoughtful and refined outcomes The talk not only inspired students but also deepened their appreciation for the structured steps behind every great interior design project. It was a valuable learning experience that bridged classroom knowledge with real-world industry practices.

When Art Meets Science: A Captivating Talk on Iris Van Herpen’s Work

On a vibrant and engaging afternoon at the FCUC SSD Lounge, students gathered for an inspiring and thought-provoking session titled "When Art Meets Science: Iris Van Herpen", presented by Tham Su Qin, Managing Partner of Draf Architectural Media and a respected voice in the fields of design and media. The talk centered on the groundbreaking work of Dutch fashion designer Iris Van Herpen, who has become a global icon for her avant-garde creations that blend fashion, science, technology, and architecture into wearable art. With her deep curiosity and pioneering spirit, Van Herpen has redefined the boundaries of what fashion can be—moving beyond aesthetics to explore form, structure, and transformation through materials and digital innovation.

Su Qin delved into Van Herpen’s unique creative process, illustrating how she collaborates with scientists, engineers, and architects to develop intricate garments using techniques such as 3D printing, laser cutting, algorithmic design, and biomimicry. Her designs often mimic patterns found in nature—like the flow of water, the structure of bones, or the geometry of microscopic organisms—creating pieces that feel both futuristic and organic. The session also highlighted the use of experimental materials, such as magnetic polymers and transparent silks, which challenge conventional notions of fashion and function.

Many students expressed how the session expanded their creative mindset, showing them that the most exciting innovations often happen at the intersection of disciplines. They were inspired not only by Van Herpen’s visionary work but also by her boldness in collaborating across fields, exploring the unknown, and transforming complex ideas into emotionally resonant art. Ultimately, this session was more than an academic talk—it was a call to action. A call to embrace curiosity, challenge conventions, and explore how creativity can be amplified through the lens of science and technology. Students left the room with their imaginations sparked, their perspectives broadened, and their passion for innovation reignited.

Street Sketch Talk & Workshop MAY 2025

On 27 May 2025, the Faculty of Design & Built Environment at First City University College (FCUC) welcomed a distinguished guest—Simone Ridyard, Senior Lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University and founder of Urban Sketchers Manchester. She led an inspiring Street Sketch Talk & Workshop for students of the Bachelor in Interior Architecture and Diploma in Interior Design programmes

Held in Room N5-03, the workshop began with Simone sharing her journey as an architect and illustrator. She emphasized the value of on-location sketching in understanding architectural spaces and urban environments. Students were captivated by her demonstrations of quick pen sketches enhanced with delicate watercolour washes

Participants then ventured outdoors, sketchbooks in hand, to apply the techniques discussed. Guided by Simone, they explored the nuances of perspective, composition, and capturing the essence of urban life through drawing. The session fostered not only technical skills but also a deeper appreciation for the built environment. Simone's visit left a profound impact on the FCUC community. Her passion for urban sketching and dedication to education resonated with students and faculty alike, inspiring a renewed enthusiasm for observational drawing in architectural studies

IAD LECTURE SERIES 2025

On March 5th, 2025, at 2:00 PM, IAD club host a unique and engaging talk titled "Bringing Ideas to Life". This event will feature IDR Jim Lee, Head of Design & Tenancy Fit at Capitaland Investment (Malaysia), who will share his extensive knowledge and experience in the design industry. Whether you're a budding designer, an architecture student, or simply someone interested in the power of design to shape the world around us, this event promises to be an inspiring and informative experience. IAD Club also hosted a second talk on 'Aesthetic Green Living with Top Mix Surface Materials,' presented by our knowledgeable speaker, Mr. Low Chin Loon.

IDR Jim Lee is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience transforming conceptual designs into successful, real-world projects. During the talk, he will explain on the process of taking an idea from paper to reality. Jim will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, strategies, and techniques used to overcome obstacles and create designs that not only meet client expectations but also stand the test of time.

Mr Low shared about the importance of understanding innovative surface materials like Top Mix offers numerous advantages for interior designers. Top Mix, known for its durability and versatility, allows designers to create stunning, sustainable, and functional spaces. By incorporating these materials, designers can achieve aesthetically pleasing surfaces that are not only visually appealing but also eco-friendly. The unique properties of Top Mix, such as its ability to blend seamlessly with various design elements, provide endless creative possibilities. For interior designers, knowledge of such innovative materials helps stay ahead of trends, meet clients' growing demand for sustainable solutions, and craft interiors that are both stylish and resilient

At the end of the event, a token of appreciation will be presented to both speakers as a gesture of gratitude for their valuable contributions to the event and to the field of design. It will be a memorable conclusion to an afternoon filled with knowledge and inspiration.

TIMBER JOINERY TALK NOV 2024

On 8th Nov 2024, the Faculty of Design and Built Environment organized a Timber Joinery talk for Diploma in Interior Design and BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design students along with their lecturers. The event took place at the Lecturer Theatre 1 at FCUC.The day began with an inspiring talk by Mr. Zul Fadzly Mohd Salleh, who provided an in-depth explanation about timber joinery beginning from the Tanggam system which is one of the timber joinery that Mr Zul specialized in and widely used in his master’s project, which is the Tanggam Pavilion.

He also shared different types and classifications of Tanggam which students can also make use of in their assignments and also their projects in the future. The Tanggam pavilion is very interesting and inspiring as it helps to convince students not to only rely only on bolts and nuts connection but it is possible to construct a pavilion or temporary structure with just timber joinery without any screws.

As the talk ended, students took part in a Q&A session that allowed them to have a deeper understanding of the topics discussed. All students learn a lot from Mr. Zul as he is very patient in attending to each question voiced out by students. Mr Zul shares a lot of valuable knowledge such as different types of timber and even specifically which timber is suitable for which types of pavilion and supports.

The session ends by having students look at Mr Zul Joinery's sketches, journal, and also joinery prototype. Students learn a lot from the talk as they gain a lot of knowledge that they can utilize directly in their current semester assignments. They also learn different types of timber joinery and know how to use and when to use them according to different situations. Nevertheless, they learn different types of timber and their application as well.

AUG Talk 2023

Another collaboration of academic talks between F-IND and the First City University College. Diploma in Interior Design students had the opportunity to attend this talk shared by Mr. Ed Mun.

It was an honor to have Mr. Ed Mun give us such a great knowledge-sharing session about current issues faced by future designers and how they could impact us.

Mr. Ed Mun shared many aspects and reasons why, as designers, we should say no to free designs. He also shared with us how to explain to clients that design is not free, starting with our scope of work, space planning, design proposal, cost preparations, and material selections. 

All students were very focused during the talk, Mr. Ed Mun also shared that, as professionally trained designers, we spent a few years of studying and also spent on workstations. Furthermore, designers often have a lot of workload and less time to rest while completing a project. Hence, it is very important not to give free consultation fees on design.

 

Token of appreciation were given out by our Dean of  the Faculty of  Design, Built Environment. 

                                                                            Mr. Ed Mun 

                    

 Token of appreciation were given out by the F-IND Organization to our Dean of  the Faculty of  Design, Built Environment. 

        Overall, it was an inspiring talk and a fruitful session. It helps to broaden our design students'                  knowledge and help them to be more prepared for industry.   

World Interior Day 2023/ Eco Bazaar

2023 Lecture Series and Workshop

A 2-hour sharing session / short design workshop by Mr Ian Lam (Designer and Illustrator) from @forthisdesign . The workshop will be focusing in producing quick presentation drawings or illustrations with effective communication to tell!

        

November Talk

 

Award Winning Workplace Design by Hamizah Karim

 

Part of lecture series to support students' learning, Hamizah Karim, Design Director of Ezyoffice Malaysia Group is invited to share her award winning workplace design projects with our IAD students.

Lecture Sharing by Simone R., Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

 

Another collaboration of lecture sharing between First City University College and Manchester Metropolitan University.  The year 2 and 3 students had the opportunity to attend ONLINE live lecture by Simone Ridyard, programme leader for BA (Hons) Interior Design of Machestor School of Art, Manchestor Metropolitan University, United Kingdom. 

Here's the snapshot of the talk:-

What MMU student did? Tips to start with design project.

Some images shared on student concept exploration.

Simone Ridyard and FCUC IAD community

Overall, it's an inspiring talk and good sharing. It helped to widen our students learning experiences, to know what other ID students are experiencing. Design is not just for local but also has vast global opportunity!