Paula Montoya
I have been both a lecturer in Architecture and developed my career at my own practice for almost 30 years. This dual nature has given me the opportunity to connect both areas and witness the evolution of the discipline with ever growing challenges. My current interests focus in highly sustainable strategies and heritage restoration and conservation projects.
"I have been teaching at the Master in Interior Design focusing in Design Research Methods: Pre-thesis. It has been one of the most enjoyable experiences of my academic life."
Q&A
What do you enjoy most about teaching in the Master's in Interior Design at IE?
Teaching a subject as broad as interior design brings together many disciplines and fields: design theory, aesthetic and figurative approaches, and industrial and technological design, all of which converge towards a goal of social and economic impact. I would very much emphasise that the most rewarding aspect has been my relationship with the students, given their diversity, their high academic level and their enthusiasm.
How do you connect your professional experience to what happens in the classroom?
When one remains active in the profession, one needs to constantly update procedures, tools and the latest developments in materials and technology. This constant updating is directly reflected in the classroom, where research and innovation must foster new ideas
What skills or qualities do you think are most important for interior designers today?
I believe that what really matters is the ability to ask the right questions in a world undergoing radical change. As designers, we answer those questions through our proposals – addressing issues such as how our designs affect the climate, resource use, aesthetic languages and even political discourse.
What role do experimentation and innovation play in your teaching?
Innovation and experimentation are more essential than ever. From my pedagogical perspective, the approach is clear: to create a learning community where processes are horizontal and progress is achieved by challenging the boundaries of the discipline
How do you see the future of interior design evolving?
I believe that interior design should increasingly work in tandem with Architecture. They are complementary disciplines, not sequential, and have much to offer one another.
Furthermore, Design must foster a new awareness of the use of available resources (particularly if they are not renewable) and of the impact of design on the upcoming climate agenda.
What advice would you give to students who want to make an impact through design?
I believe it is essential for a future designer to lead through experimentation. Curiosity and a desire to refine aesthetic languages and construction methods can also have a significant impact on the material industry.
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE Master in Interior Design?
WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE Master in Interior Design?