Cursos / 1º Ciclo / Faculty of Architecture and Arts :: Design

DESIGN III - 2025/2026

3º curricular year
Semestralidade: annual
ECTS: 34

Teachers

Leading Teacher: Prof. Doutora Benedita Camacho
Assistant Professor: Prof. Doutora Benedita Camacho

Class type and School hours

Teórico-prática : 12 Horas

Teaching Language

English

Main Aims/Objectives

Mastery of the fundamentals of Global Design;
Consolidation of critical, analytical and systemic thinking;
Anticipation of the future through the transformation and construction of knowledge;
Development of awareness of the professional context and social responsibility.

Specific Aims/Objectives

Identification, analysis and articulation of similarities at national and international level;
Adaptation of functional, aesthetic, dimensional, cultural and sustainable values;
Developing products at a business level by applying the knowledge acquired;
Developing and rigorously presenting 3D projects on a human scale;
Mastering technical drawings, quotations, 3D modelling and rendering;
Adapting and implementing design processes and products autonomously in a real context.

Skills to be acquired

Understanding and applying design as an integrated and transdisciplinary strategy;
Ability to apply analytical, critical and systemic thinking and to use research as a strategic tool for innovation;
Ability to interpret and recreate briefings and to direct and coordinate design processes;
Knowing how to present, justify, sustain and communicate ideas;
Ability to formulate emerging issues with initiative and entrepreneurial spirit.

Teaching Procedures

1. Theoretical/practical classes:
- Presentation and demonstration of content using various resources;
- Comparative and reflective analyses based on reference projects (case studies); Experimentation and practical application of programme content through practical work.
2. Tutorial guidance:
- Monitoring and guidance of students´ work; Use of the Moodle platform for content presentation.

Programme

In the third year of the undergraduate programme in Design, the proposed theme for this year is centred around the challenges included in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs). In this context, the syllabus will be integrated with assessment proposals that include projects, quick exercises, and varied activities that address not only the academic environment but also engage and consider the surrounding society. Key projects include:
Project 1 – Inhabiting the future, urban refuge modules;
Project 2 - Sensory interior design for a specific audience;
Project 3 - Reimagining the park, design for children in space;
Project 4 - Modular design for spaces, focus on university kitchens;
Project 5 - Cultural and identity design, focus: commercial
Project 6 - Design with the community, collaborative solutions for public spaces.
Fundamental Principles:
Principles of inclusive/social design and Human-Centred Design.
Context and Framework:
Geographical and socio-cultural framework;
Economic context and social design.
Development and Planning:
Development of briefings in partnership;
Spatial problem-solving.
Differentiation and Identification:
Differentiation between private and social spaces;
Identification of similar internationally recognised projects.
Ergonomics and Anthropometry:
Understanding principles of ergonomics and anthropometry adapted to the space;
Mastering principles of ergonomics and anthropometry for the space.
Three-dimensionality and Techniques:
Exploring three-dimensionality with a focus on different areas of Design;
Developing three-dimensional projects on a human scale;
Mastering technical drawings, measurements, 3D modelling, and rendering.
Volumes and Structures:
Mastering volumes, structures, openings, and other elements.
Values and Characteristics:
Adapting functional, aesthetic, dimensional, cultural, and ecological values;
Functional, aesthetic, and production characteristics.
Materials and Sustainability:
Expanding the repertoire of materials, techniques, and various production costs;
Upcycling, recycling, reuse, product design with post-industrial waste, local materials.
Aesthetics and Interior Environment:
Physical and psychological factors;
Colours, textiles, lighting, and materials for environments and spaces.
All the aforementioned themes will be developed in parallel with the following resources: critical analysis of examples; project methodologies; technical drawings, measurements, and 3D modelling; planning, techniques, and production; project descriptive reports; and means of realisation/modelling/prototyping.

Evaluation Type

Assessment will be carried out in accordance with the General Assessment Regulations and the Exceptional Continuous Assessment Regime of Lusíada University. In addition to attendance, participation and commitment in class, the continuous assessment criteria will focus mainly on the process, execution, presentation and defence of the six major work design proposals mentioned above and, finally, on the two attendance exams.

Teaching Resources

Moodle.
Supporting texts, compulsory or optional reading.
UL Media Library and Library and others.
Audio-visual material.
Computer with internet.
Study visits and open classes.

Sustainability Objectives

The sustainability objectives of the UC are aligned with CITAD, GI4 Innovation, Design and (Im)material Culture:
STRONG
SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being
SDG 4 – Quality Education
SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities
SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production
MODERATE
SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
SDG 13 - Climate Action
SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

Keywords

Interior design; Exterior design; Environment Design; Social Design; Equipment design; Universal Design; Sustainable Design; Educational Design; partnership design; Speculative design.

Main Bibliography

Complementary Bibliography