Learning How to Learn Interior Design

Where did it all start?

Two weeks ago, after reading numerous books and journals, I realized that I would like to work as a consultant, helping organizations navigate their problem-solving processes. While my experience as a self-employed professional has given me insight into certain industry challenges, I am far from familiar with the complexities that larger organizations with many employees face. To bridge this gap, I decided to expand my skills and knowledge by setting a six-month learning plan for myself.

To find the right resources, I turned to ChatGPT, which provided me with a curated list of books, podcasts, workshops, and courses—most of which were either free or available through a library membership at little to no cost. One of the resources that stood out was a Coursera course titled Learning How to Learn. Initially, I assumed the content would be fairly obvious, but I decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did! I quickly realized how much I didn’t know about effective learning techniques.

One of the highlights of the course was its optional interviews, which I found extremely insightful—I highly recommend listening to them! I also loved the way Professor Oakley explains concepts, which led me to purchase some of her books. As expected, they turned out to be just as fascinating. (To me people in the mathematics related field tend to be particularly interesting human being!)

For the final project of this course, we are tasked with helping others learn how to learn in different ways. I thought, Why not write about how to effectively learn interior design on my blog? I hope you find this post helpful—or at the very least, interesting!

The Struggles of Learning Interior Design

Interior design is a vast subject that requires knowledge in multiple areas: color theory, materials, space planning, furniture selection, and aesthetics. One of the biggest challenges is information overload. From memorizing design styles to mastering technical drawings and understanding client needs, it can feel overwhelming. I often found myself struggling to retain information and apply it creatively.

Another challenge is the balance between theory and practice. While reading about design principles is essential, true understanding comes from applying them. But how could I bridge the gap between knowledge and practical application? The answer lay in the learning strategies I discovered in this course.

Spaced Repetition

One of the most effective techniques I learned was spaced repetition. In interior design, there’s a vast amount of information to absorb, from historical movements like Art Deco and Minimalism to technical aspects like lighting and ergonomics. Instead of cramming all this knowledge at once, I began using spaced repetition—reviewing key concepts at increasing intervals over time.

I created digital flashcards for design styles and principles, reviewing them periodically rather than all at once. This technique significantly improved my recall and understanding, allowing me to build a solid foundation of knowledge without feeling overwhelmed.

Sketching and Mind Mapping

Interior design is an inherently visual discipline, so it makes sense to use visual learning strategies. Mind mapping became an essential tool for me. Instead of taking traditional notes, I started creating mind maps that linked different design elements together—color theory, furniture styles, and spatial planning. This helped me see connections between ideas and reinforced my learning.

Sketching was another game-changer. I learned that by drawing key interior layouts and furniture arrangements, I could internalize their details much better than by simply reading about them. These quick sketches acted as memory triggers, making it easier to recall concepts later.

Interleaving

Another powerful strategy I adopted was interleaving, which involves mixing different topics instead of studying them in isolation. Initially, I would focus on one area at a time—lighting design one day, materials the next. However, I found that switching between different topics during a single study session helped me understand how they interacted in real-world applications.

For example, while studying modern interior design, I would simultaneously explore how designers adapt modernist principles to furniture placement and color palettes. This method prevented monotony and deepened my comprehension of how different elements of interior design complement each other.

Overcoming Procrastination

Like many learners, I struggled with procrastination. I would often delay working on projects because they seemed too overwhelming or time-consuming. One technique that helped me regain control was the Pomodoro Technique. By breaking work into focused 25-minute intervals followed by short breaks, I found it easier to maintain concentration and reduce mental fatigue.

This structured approach not only improved my productivity but also made large tasks feel more manageable. Instead of dreading long study sessions, I learned to approach my work in small, consistent bursts, making steady progress without feeling overwhelmed.

The Habit Loop: Cue, Routine, Reward, and Belief

I also discovered the power of habit formation in improving my learning efficiency. The habit loop consists of four key components: cue, routine, reward, and belief. Understanding this cycle helped me build productive study habits.

Cue: I set up a designated study space with minimal distractions, signaling my brain that it was time to focus.
Routine: I incorporated study techniques like mind mapping and interleaving into my daily learning process.
Reward: After completing a session, I rewarded myself with something enjoyable, like a short walk or a cup of tea.
Belief: Most importantly, I shifted my mindset to believe in my ability to improve. Recognizing that learning is a process, not a fixed ability, helped me stay motivated and persistent.

Our beliefs play a crucial role in our learning journey. By fostering a growth mindset, I transformed my approach to interior design from a daunting challenge into an exciting and rewarding experience.

Applying Learning Strategies to Real Projects

The real test of learning is application. As I progressed, I realized that actively engaging with what I learned made a huge difference. Instead of passively watching design tutorials, I started applying concepts by redesigning my own space. I used what I learned about color psychology to rethink my room’s palette and applied the rule of thirds to furniture placement.

Additionally, I began analyzing real-world interiors more critically—visiting hotels, cafés, and showrooms to observe how designers utilized lighting, textures, and space. This hands-on approach reinforced my learning and helped me appreciate the nuances of interior design beyond theory.

Learning How to Learn Transforms Everything

This course taught me that learning isn’t just about absorbing information—it’s about using the right strategies to retain and apply knowledge effectively. By incorporating techniques like spaced repetition, mind mapping, interleaving, and active learning, I’ve been able to explore interior design in a much deeper and more meaningful way.

Learning how to learn is a skill that extends beyond academics. It empowers us to tackle any subject with confidence and curiosity. Whether you’re studying interior design, music, or science, the right strategies can make all the difference. And for me, they have turned my passion for interior design into an exciting and structured learning journey.