Course Topics
The project is dedicated to the table as a design object and starting point for exploring essential aspects and themes of design in an experimental, process-oriented and creative way. We will initially approach the table as an architectural element, where we encounter it, how it relates to its surroundings, objects and people, how it defines space and how we relate to it. We will explore everyday practices, traditions, rituals, and social rules that develop around tables, and what insights this provides for design. As a place of interaction, we will consider the role of form, proportion, ergonomics, handling, and transformability. As a piece of furniture and a structural component, we will test the interplay of static elements, connections, materials and manufacturing processes.

Teaching format
Module 1: lectures, workshops, discussions, field-work, excursions, personal reviews Module 2: lectures, tutorials, case studies, semester’s project, personal reviews Module 3: lectures, case studies, seminars, workshops

Educational objectives
Knowledge and understanding have acquired their own project methodology in the field of product design, from the phase of planning to the phase of realisation of the project. have acquired the basic practical and theoretical knowledge necessary to realise a project in the field of product design. have acquired the basic knowledge to be able to turn a critical eye to their own work and to deal with contemporary complexity. have acquired the basic knowledge necessary for further Master's studies in all components of project culture as well as in theoretical subjects. Applying knowledge and understanding plan, develop and realise a project in the field of product design. be able to finalize the creation of an accomplished project in the field of product design, thanks to the basic knowledge acquired in the practical, scientific and theoretical fields. recognise the main phenomena of contemporary society, to observe them critically, also from an ethical and social point of view, and to elaborate appropriate solutions at the level of a design proposal/response. make use of the skills acquired during the course of study in the event of continuing studies in a Master's degree programme in the field of product design and to develop them further. Making judgements be able to make independent judgements for the purpose of developing their own design skills and in relation to all those decisions that are necessary to bring a project to completion. be able to make independent judgements, both in the critical evaluation of their own work and in their ability to use the right interpretative tools in those design contexts in which they will work and/or continue their studies, also considering ethical and social aspects. Communication skills present an independently realised project in the field of product design in the form of an installation, orally as well as in writing in a professional manner. to professionally communicate and substantiate one’s own decisions and justify them from a formal and theoretical point of view. communicate and present your own project at a professional level in another language and correctly in a third language in addition to their own language Learning skills have learned a work methodology at a professional level - in the sense of being able to identify, develop and realise solutions to complex problems by applying the knowledge acquired in the practical and theoretical fields - in order to start a professional activity and/or continue their studies with a master's degree program. have developed a creative attitude and learned how to enhance it and develop it according to their own inclinations. have acquired basic knowledge in theoretical and practical subjects as well as a study methodology suitable for continuing studies with a master's degree program.

Assessment
MODULE 1: Presentation of the project: each candidate will present his work through graphic drawings, a physical model, photographs, a synthetic text and a concentrate of his work in a booklet. The design path, the final result and all the materials delivered will be evaluated. The presentation of the project will be public. Materials to be delivered, three days before the examination date: 1. construction drawings 2. model of proportions or functional model (possibly in 1:1 scale) 3. 3-5 photos that highlight the characteristics of the final elaborated design concept. Format: 10cm x 15cm, 72 dpi, RGB, jpg and 300 dpi, CMYK, tif 4. short summary text where the final concept is presented (max 500 characters, doc or rtf) 5. summary of the design development process through images, graphics and notes of relevant observations, models, tests and decision-making that led to the final design. 6. the data need to be concentrated in a booklet in A5 format. The facsimile of the booklet will be delivered and explained to the students one month before the end of the project. NB: The timely delivery of all the materials being examined is essential for admission to the exam itself. MODULE 2: The final assessment will be based on the work conducted throughout the entire semester. The following aspects will be evaluated: 1. The ability to analyse, visualise, and communicate ideas through technical representations (3D models, 2D drawings, rendering techniques, and prototyping). 2. The ability to observe and think analytically, including the capacity to establish a methodical framework and work systematically. 3. The ability to develop functional ideas, including the management of the entire process—from sketch to 3D model to prototype—and an understanding of the logic behind the selection of materials and digital fabrication processes. 4. Motivation and commitment demonstrated during the module and in the atelier. Materials to be delivered: 1. 3D Models 2. 2D drawings 3. Renderings and physical models (prototypes) of the product (design of a table) 4. Presentation (instructions will be delivered by time) MODULE 3: Assessment is based on active participation, critical engagement, and project development. Evaluation considers contributions to discussions and student-led seminars, the quality of research and experimentation during laboratory activities, and the coherence and depth of the final design project. Materials to be delivered: 1. A collection of essays related to the student’s design project, reflecting research, critical analysis, and theoretical references 2. A visual essay documenting the design project, including sketches, diagrams, models, and other visual explorations N.B. ALL THE STUDENTS ATTENDING THE EXAM AS NON-ATTENDING STUDENTS MUST AGREE UPON THE CONTENTS WITH THE TEACHER.

Evaluation criteria
MODULE 1: 1. The quality and clarity of the research 2. the creativity, originality and innovative portion of the design concept 3. demonstration of values, benefits, functional aspects and technical feasibility of the concept 4. the quality and clarity of the design process, of the development and realization of the project such as the professionalism and consistency of the presentation and documentation. 5. personal commitment and initiative demonstrated during the project: participation in events and exercises, as well as timely work, continuity, attention, critical questioning and curiosity demonstrated in the project. MODULE 2: 1. Participation, analytical thinking skills, and delivery punctuality. 2. Ability to express ideas through 3D models / 2D drawings and renderings. 3. Ability of understanding the potentialities of digital fabrication and logics behind 3D modelling for digital fabrication processes and materials. 4. Quality of final submission. MODULE 3: 1. Concept and Research: clarity, coherence, and integration of theory and practice 2. Visual and Design Communication: quality of visual essay, sketches, models, and presentations 3. Participation and Creativity: engagement in seminars, discussions, and experimental design exploration.