Interior Design is a discipline very closely aligned to Architecture. It is not to be confused with interior decoration, which concentrates more on furnishings and fabrics. It is both a highly creative and highly technical area, with applications in both domestic and commercial use.

In the domestic context, interior designers may be involved in kitchen and bathroom design, in design for specialised use – such as for design for the aged. In the commercial context, there is are many applications for interior design – for retail, hospitality and healthcare.

Interior designers will often work as part of a multi-disciplinary team, working alongside architects and others to realise a project. They require to have not only creative ability, but also strong technical skills and knowledge, among other things of ergonomics, lighting, building materials and construction, building regulations and environmental and health and safety issues.

Interior designers will work both with traditional art and designing materials and with computer software packages to realise their ideas and concepts.

There are many opportunities to work as an interior designer, both on a freelance basis or as part of an agency or company. However, unlike working as an interior decorator, you need to be highly qualified and be fully competent in using design software packages – most interior designers will have completed a Degree level qualification before entering the industry.

Interior Design graduates will generally spend much of their early career building on their existing skills, under guidance from more experienced colleagues engaging in specific activities as part of a larger project. There are opportunities to work on a wide range of projects, from small-scale domestic work to large-scale public or commercial developments. Interior designers may be employed on a contracted basis to join a team working on a specific project; working alongside architects and other professionals.  Additionally, they may find employment in one of the many businesses offering design consultancy services. Interior Designers can also move into other fields using their experience and skills in fields such as visual merchandising, lighting design and set design.

Interior designers must keep their skills relevant to changing trends and styles and should attend conferences and relevant events to network and gain extra industry knowledge.

Level 3 Foundation Diploma - Interior Design

BA Hons Interior and Spatial Design

BA Hons Interior and Spatial Design with Marketing