Domus Academy Joins Sustainability Dialogue in Dubai

Professors Chiodo and Cardini’s paper centers on Domus Academy’s innovative pedagogical approach to teaching responsibility and sustainability within the design disciplines. Drawing from their experience guiding postgraduate students in branding and communication design, the professors introduced a unique methodology—the Three-and-a-Half Diamond model—which extends the classic Double Diamond design framework. Their model introduces the initial “Doubt” phase, encouraging deep self-reflection and ethical inquiry before students begin the design process.

Their work highlights how design education can shape socially responsible professionals, capable of integrating environmental awareness and ethical decision-making into impactful real-world projects. The presentation also featured the student-led project Flocal, a communication and branding initiative developed within Domus Academy that combines social entrepreneurship, sustainability, and local community engagement.