At Villa College, we champion an educational model that extends far beyond the traditional classroom, emphasizing the importance of real-world application and industry engagement. In a recent initiative, our Bachelor of Arts in Interior Architecture & Design students were given a valuable opportunity to visit a live construction site, an experience made possible through the generous support of the Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC). This visit provided students with a direct, tangible connection to the professional environment they are preparing to enter, turning theoretical knowledge into practical understanding.
The focus of the site visit was a close examination of a building's finishing stages, a critical phase for any interior architecture professional. Students were able to observe firsthand the real-world application of concepts they have studied extensively. This included seeing how different materials are handled and installed, the precision required for high-quality detailing, and the specific construction techniques used to bring an architectural vision to life. Witnessing this process on an active site offers a level of insight that cannot be replicated through textbooks or lectures, providing a clear picture of how design decisions translate into physical, built reality.
This hands-on exposure is fundamental to developing a well-rounded design professional. It allows students to appreciate the complexities and collaboration required on a construction project and to understand the practical challenges and solutions that arise on-site. By observing the finishing touches, our students gain a deeper respect for the craftsmanship involved and a more pragmatic approach to their own design work, ensuring their future plans are not only creative but also feasible and well-executed.
This initiative is a clear reflection of Villa College's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The visit directly enhances SDG 4, Quality Education, by providing an immersive, practice-based learning experience. Moreover, by giving students insight into the construction of modern buildings, it supports SDG 9, which focuses on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. This understanding, in turn, contributes to SDG 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities, as it equips our future designers with the practical knowledge needed to contribute to the development of safe, resilient, and sustainable urban environments.
Villa College extends its sincere appreciation to the Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation for welcoming our students and for their significant contribution to their educational journey. Partnerships like these are essential in preparing the next generation of designers and architects, and we are grateful to FDC for investing in the future of our students and our industry.
