JD Institute of Fashion Technology
What Every Interior Designer Should Know About Political Ideology and Furniture Design

Did you know? The famous Oval Office desk used by U.S. Presidents has hidden symbols of authority built into its carvings and dimensions. Or that in old royal courts, visitors weren’t allowed to sit unless the king offered a chair?

Strange—but true. And it proves one thing: Furniture isn’t just for sitting—it sends a message.

In this blog, we’ll explore how interior spaces are quietly shaped by power, politics, and values—and why every interior design student must know how this works. If you’re learning design, like the students of the Interior Design course at JD Institute, this is one area you shouldn’t miss.

Institutional Design: Why Some Rooms Feel “Important”

Ever noticed how schools, courtrooms, and government offices have a certain vibe? That’s institutional design. Everything from the size of a desk to how far apart chairs are placed has meaning.

For example, in parliament buildings, seating is often arranged to show opposition or unity. Even startup offices like WeWork use cozy shared spaces to encourage “equal” work vibes. Meanwhile, in traditional offices, big bosses still sit at tall desks, literally looking down at others.

Why it matters:

If you’re designing for a workplace, school, or even a co-living space, you need to understand how furniture affects power and behavior. It’s more than just decorating—you’re shaping how people interact.

Architecture of Control: How Spaces Guide Behavior

You might not realize it, but some spaces tell you what to do—without saying a word. That’s the idea behind the architecture of control.

Think of malls where you have to walk past every store before reaching the exit. Or offices where managers sit in glass cabins—seen but not easily approached. These layouts control how people move, where they stop, and how they behave.

Apple Stores are a great example. They use long tables and open layouts to invite interaction but also guide you through the space in a planned way.

At JD Institute’s Interior Design course, students learn to create both free-flowing and structured layouts—and see how design can impact emotions and decisions.

Luxury vs. Austerity: Design That Shows Values

Some interiors shout wealth—others whisper humility. This is where luxury vs. austerity design comes in.

Luxury interiors use rich materials—like marble floors, velvet chairs, or gold finishes—to show exclusivity and status. On the other hand, austerity interiors use simple wood, clean lines, and basic colors to show modesty or shared values.

MUJI’s minimalist stores reflect its humble, honest brand. Meanwhile, hotels like Aman Resorts go all out with plush materials to create a luxurious experience.

Understanding this balance is key for interior designers—especially when working for clients with strong brand values or political messaging.

Furniture Psychology: What Chairs and Desks Say About You

Here’s a fun fact: In job interviews, people sitting in hard chairs are more likely to give “tough” answers. That’s furniture psychology in action.

The shape, height, and material of a chair can make someone feel confident, relaxed, nervous—or even small. Desks, couches, lighting—all of it can subtly affect mood and power dynamics.

Glossier’s flagship store, with soft curves and pastel stools, makes visitors feel calm and welcomed. In contrast, tech companies like Basecamp keep things functional and serious, with plain furniture and no extra fluff.

If you’re new to interiors, learning furniture psychology helps you make better choices for both homes and professional spaces.

Every Room Sends a Message—What Will Yours Say?

Before someone says a word in a room, the furniture has already spoken. Whether it’s a velvet throne, a bean bag, or a boardroom desk—each item reflects a decision about power, values, and behavior.

If you want to be a designer who does more than just decorate—one who creates spaces that speak volumes—then this is your moment. The Interior Design course at JD Institute is where you’ll learn to read between the lines—and design beyond the surface.