The Future of Design Begins Here

It was so refreshing and recharging when having conversations about the future of interior design, human-centric design, ecological & environmental stewardship, and technological transformations at the 2025 Interior Design Educators Council (IDEC) Annual Conference in Chicago, in March 2025. It was an absolute pleasure to give two presentations about my research in healthcare design and my scholarship in teaching and learning. Having this opportunity to present my healthcare design research project, which is supported by the Purdue University Senior Summer Faculty Research Grant, is a real treat.

Thank you so much to everyone who attended my presentations and their enthusiastic responses. My talks addressed the following topics:

·        Examining the Impact of Nursing Unit Interior Layout on Human Behavior

·        An Analysis of Two Glass Houses: How Natural Environment Shapes Design

Additionally, it was a great tour at the Merchandise Mart to walk through all the showrooms, which is a true delight for interior designers.

The interior design discipline is evolving due to the integration of technology, human-centered design, sustainability and green design, and an interdisciplinary approach. It is time to rethink design education, and the future of design begins here.