The design concept by Jaremy on display during the exhibition at a mall in Batu Kawan.
DESIGNING an interior involves creating a holistic design that is both visually appealing and sustainable.
At “Beyond the Door: The Unseen Realms” exhibition, diploma in Interior Design and Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Interior Architecture students from UOW Malaysia KDU Batu Kawan Campus showcased these concepts.
Forty-five students submitted their final-year projects for public display.
The exhibition served as a platform where future designers could present their vision through immersive, thought-provoking interior spaces that explored psychological, cultural and spatial narratives, said the project’s marketing publicity leader Jaremy Aaron Dass.
“Through a comprehensive design process, the designs were based on aspects such as concept development, practical functionality, site relevance, sustainable strategies, technical accuracy and user-centric experience,” he said.
By exhibiting at a shopping centre in Batu Kawan, Penang, the students’ work gained better exposure, connecting it with the public beyond the academic setting, he added.
“A public venue provides students with a real-world platform to showcase their work to potential employers, industry professionals and everyday users, allowing for diverse feedback and greater visibility.
“Public response was encouraging and visitors were genuinely curious about the projects and often asked students about the rationale behind their design decisions, the materials used and the problems their designs aimed to solve.
“Common questions revolved around sustainability, practical application and inspiration sources.
“Many were impressed by the creativity and professionalism displayed.
“Some even offered suggestions or shared how the projects related to their own experiences,” Jaremy said.
Through drawings, models and 3D visualisations, the students were also expected to demonstrate their ability to translate research and narrative into spatial experience.
Shima Balqis Amanullah, 21, showed her concept of a safe, healing interior for Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO) to support survivors of domestic abuse.
“It is more than a shelter, it’s a space for empowerment, emotional recovery and rediscovery.
“The design uses warm materials, thoughtful zoning and handcrafted elements to create a comforting environment that reflects WAO’s mission.
“Each space encourages healing, self-expression and growth in a supportive setting,” she said.
S. Yuhasri, 21, who designed a tech hub dubbed the CyberXperience Centre, said it was based on a modern yet minimalistic approach.
“This is a training hub for new tech employees.
“Inspired by the keyboard keystroke, the design emphasises clarity, focus and seamless user navigation.
“Each space is tailored to support immersive cybersecurity learning while encouraging digital resilience.
“The layout flows intuitively to reflect on the rhythm of keystrokes that are functional, clean and purpose-driven, while the environment promotes focus, innovation and practical skill-building to prepare users for real-world cybersecurity challenges,” she said.
Jaremy, 22, came up with a cafe-cum-office concept aimed at boosting productivity and reducing stress at work.
“My design of Pau Pau Café & Office transforms everyday space into a calm and engaging environment that supports well-being and productivity.
“Designed to ease stress and encourage creativity, it offers a seamless blend of comfort, function and modern aesthetics.
“Inspired by Foodpanda’s innovative and user-focused approach, the space invites users to recharge, connect and find balance in their daily routines.”
Although the exhibition has ended, the works are still on display at level three of the UOW campus in Persiaran Cassia Barat, Batu Kawan.
Bukit Tambun assemblyman Goh Choon Aik, who was among the visitors, commended the efforts of students.
“I hope organisations like Penang Women’s Development Corporation and Penang Youth Development Corporation, both of which focus on empowerment and social development, will look into the concepts presented by the students,” he said.
