Smart & Sustainable Interior Design
This program equips architects and designers with advanced knowledge of sustainable and smart interior design, integrating eco-friendly materials, IoT technologies, and human-centric concepts.
Program Overview
As urban environments evolve, interior spaces must become smarter, healthier, and more environmentally responsible. This immersive training equips design professionals with the knowledge and tools to implement smart and sustainable interior solutions that align with UAE Vision 2030 and Net Zero by 2050 targets.
The program blends principles of green design, IoT-enabled environments, and human-cantered design thinking to create interiors that serve both people and the planet.
Mode of Delivery
- On-campus or virtual workshops
- Hands-on simulations using VR/AR tools
- Design studio activities with expert mentorship
- UAE/GCC-based case study analysis
Target Audience
This program is tailored for:
- Interior designers and decorators
- Architects and urban planners
- Engineers involved in smart building projects
- Real estate developers and project managers
- Sustainability consultants and design educators
- Government officials working on sustainable cities and regulations
Objectives of the Training Program
By the end of the program, participants will:
- Understand smart interior design principles and sustainable practices
- Identify and apply eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems
- Integrate smart technologies (IoT, automation) into interior environments
- Align design decisions with UAE Net Zero and Vision 2030 targets
- Apply biophilic and human-cantered design for wellbeing
- Use AR/VR tools for interior simulations and planning
- Analyse regional case studies and evaluate compliance strategies
Course Description
This hands-on program empowers participants with future-ready skills in smart and sustainable interior design. It explores eco-materials, intelligent lighting and HVAC systems, biophilic design, LEED/BREEAM standards, and user-centric automation.
Through interactive labs and case studies from UAE developments like Masdar City and The Sustainable City, learners gain a deep understanding of how to design with environmental efficiency, technological integration, and regulatory compliance in mind.
Participants will also experiment with AR/VR tools and 3D visualizations to simulate smart and sustainable environments that enhance user wellbeing, reduce environmental impact, and promote innovation.
Learning Outcomes
Participants will be able to:
1. Design smart interior systems that optimize energy and user experience
2. Choose sustainable materials and finishes based on lifecycle impact
3. Incorporate automation, sensors, and climate control in interiors
4. Utilize immersive tech (VR/AR) to test and present design concepts
5. Implement biophilic and wellness-based design elements
6. Evaluate designs based on LEED, WELL, and local regulations
7. Develop concepts aligned with sustainable development goals (SDGs)
Methodology
1. Interactive lectures with case-based discussions
2. VR/AR simulation labs for smart interior environments
3. Technical demonstrations of smart building systems
4. Group projects focused on UAE/GCC-based scenarios
5. Design charrettes and peer review sessions
6. Expert-led critiques and walkthroughs of sample spaces
Certification
1. Certificate of Completion from the American University in the Emirates (AUE)
2. Attendance certificates are attested by KHDA
3. Optional 2 Continuing Education Credits (CECs)
Regional Relevance
1. Direct alignment with UAE Net Zero 2050 and Vision 2030
2. Based on local regulations, cultural context, and climate needs
3. Supports sustainability goals across hospitality, education, retail, and residential design sectors
Schedule & Topics
| Day | Session Title | Hours | Focus & Learning Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Introduction to Smart & Sustainable Interior Design | 4 hrs |
Principles, global standards, UAE Vision 2030 alignment |
| Day 2 | Eco-Friendly Materials & Circular Design Concepts | 4 hrs |
Sustainable sourcing, lifecycle thinking, circular economy |
| Day 3 | Smart Technologies in Interior Spaces (IoT & Automation) | 4 hrs |
Sensor integration, smart lighting, HVAC automation |
| Day 4 | Biophilic & Human-Centric Design | 4 hrs |
Wellbeing, natural materials, neuroarchitecture principles |
| Day 5 | Case Study Analysis: Masdar City & The Sustainable City | 4 hrs |
Local case studies, benchmarking, urban sustainability |
| Day 6 | VR/AR Simulation Lab: Designing Smart Interiors | 4 hrs |
Virtual prototyping, immersive design visualization |
| Day 7 | Final Project: Sustainable Interior Design Proposal | 4 hrs |
Group presentation, expert critique, feedback session |