BA (Hons) Interiors

Interpret space and enhance the way we live today using colour, layout, acoustics, lighting, furniture and fabrics. Interior designers plan responding to the ‘identity’ of the given space, as well as taking on-board demands of physical wellbeing, and performance needs of the space in question. This three year course covers a complex mix of technical design skills (CAD), combined with a contemporary approach, learning how to create a story evoking both style and mood in the main areas of contemporary lifestyle interiors: residential, commercial, retail, public spaces, and exhibition design. Participants discover how to interpret and ‘read’ a space, combining technical aspects in construction with contemporary design elements, fundamental for the successful management and development of design proposals.

They research and evaluate past and current trends, and brand identity, responding to their own individual style combined with industry needs, project briefs, brand image strategies, or specific client requests.

The history and evolution of interior design takes a look at the discipline as an art form and as a science in its ability to ‘transform’ space. Throughout the course focus is on interiors specific to the world of luxury where participants research and analyse the importance of brand identity, planning for retail spaces such as flagship stores, showrooms, trade fairs and exhibition spaces. ‘Real world’ experience in project development is achieved through collaborations with companies on industry projects, taking an idea from concept through to final presentation, as well as ‘signing-off’ the space upon completion. Covering different segments of the market participants receive professional feedback and guidance from the company throughout the project.

A final graduation showcase event gives the opportunity to further network and engage with industry professionals. They are encouraged to experiment with contemporary design, and consider new approaches in the industry that are evolving today, including influences in sound, scent, tactile features, ‘well-being’ design, sustainability and innovative new materials. Being able to develop, design, and present forward-thinking solutions for interior design projects, with a strong aesthetic awareness, opens up diverse career opportunities in contemporary architectural and interior design practices, and interior divisions in the fashion, luxury and creative industries.

This course forms the base of all three-year interior design study pathways. With interior design as the core subject, participants select from different pathways to specialise in a chosen area of interest, responding to individual creative flair and passion.

This course is also available as a BA (Hons) four-year course (including Sandwich Year Placement).