Meet a Geographer — Working indoors

Belinda Terry

Interior Designer
Edgar Idle Wade Architects

Work Description

The influence of external temperatures, natural light patterns and colours, geographic features and cultural influences should always be understood when planning new community spaces. At EIW the design focus is highly influenced by the geographic location of each building. Some recent work EIW architects have undertaken includes building educational facilities in remote Australian communities, designing state of the art sports, science and learning facilities and designing modern ecclesiastical buildings. The influence of external temperatures, natural light patterns and colours, geographic features and cultural influences should always be understood when planning new community spaces.

Today designers have a responsibility to incorporate sustainable design into our built environment which; is directly influenced by geographic location. Some considerations for sustainable interior design include the inclusion of water sensitive fittings, controlling the penetration of light, heat and air flow to avoid excessive use of air-conditioning. Selecting materials, colours and furniture to complement light and heat levels also aids in creating comfortable interiors which people enjoy using.

Assessing interior fittings for a new project

The best aspects of my job

Rewarding aspects include helping clients achieve their vision for spaces with functions specific to their buildings site, function and desired aesthetic. Spatial design can aid in bringing new ideas to a community, provide places for local events or encourage individual learning and contemplation. Seeing communities (work, educational, local or regional) achieve a positive change in the way they function through designing useful spaces makes being an interior designer satisfying.

Prior studies

YR 12 – Geography
Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture at Curtin University
Currently Studying: Masters in Urban and Regional Planning

My career pathway

… career side steps are possible such as architecture, urban planning, urban design, events and facility management.Upon graduating from university I have worked both in the UK and Australia as an Interior Designer. Interior Designers have the opportunity to diversify in other areas such as product design, furniture design, project management and business ownership. With further study many career side steps are possible such as architecture, urban planning, urban design, events and facility management.

Advice to people considering this type of career

Studying geography is an important grounding for anyone involved in planning and designing public spaces and community facilities. A background in geography creates a greater understanding of how our built environment influences the way people function within a workplace, a building, a region and a city.

People interested in Interior Design should be encouraged to travel to aid in understanding the way geography influences broader subjects such as art, culture, urban planning industry and of course the interior environments we occupy. Interior Design solutions are often a reflection of the natural and urban geography around us.

 

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