This module introduces fundamental principles of spatial design, emphasising how to understand and communicate space in both 2D and 3D. Through workshops, seminars, and studio sessions, you will develop key skills in spatial arrangement, technical drawing, and model-making.

You will learn about scale, anthropometrics, space planning, manual drafting, orthographic projection (plan, elevation and sections) and isometric. The module also covers technical drawing standards, enabling effective communication with the wider design community.

This module emphasises three-dimensional exploration through conceptual experimentation. You will be guided to extract ideas from an inspirational starting point and narrative, using an iterative process to explore shape, form, colour, texture, and light intervention. Through sketching and sketch modelling, you will develop a unique interior environment.

Additionally, the module introduces key industry methodologies, including research techniques and essential digital software such as Photoshop visual communication.

This project-based module builds on the interplay of objects, space, and light while introducing a specific purpose and human experience. Through a structured design process, you will explore design opportunities and constraints, examine the relationship between human needs and built environments through scenario planning, and analyse the interaction between the built environment and its surroundings through a comprehensive site analysis.

Topics covered include research for design, breaking down the brief, setting aims and objectives, ideation and concept development, spatial planning, and material considerations. Presentation techniques in both 2D and 3D will be further developed to enhance your design communication skills.

In this collaborative module, you will engage in a commercial interior project, starting with a group concept and progressing to an individual design proposal. Key themes include target audience analysis, branding, sustainability, building regulations, and integrated services, marking the culmination of your first year of study.

You will explore advanced digital tools and software to enhance visual communication while refining material specifications and integrating technology to create a cohesive and well-executed interior design proposal.

This module introduces professional design process models, guiding you in applying appropriate design methods and developing an understanding of a structured approach to design methodologies.

Through a collaborative research project, you will explore the specifics of a commercial interior design brief which is located in an existing local building. By generating multiple design directions through an iterative ideation process, you will refine and develop a well-defined concept proposal, which will be professionally presented at the end of the module.

Additionally, this module will introduce key employability skills to support the possibility of industry placements and work experience opportunities.

Building on your concept proposal from the previous module, this module focuses on refining spatial planning, materiality, and Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) specification. You will experiment with scale, proportion, texture, and light to elevate the spatial experience and create an emotional connection between the interior and its target audience.

In developing an interior design scheme, you will also consider service integration, including lighting, small power, ventilation, and plumbing.

Your presentation techniques, both digital and manual, will be further refined, supporting the development of your unique visual communication style. Employability skills will also be addressed, with a focus on portfolio preparation and interview techniques.

This module integrates research and design processes into a professionally written and visual format, suitable for client or public presentation. You will engage in research methods, including brand analysis, user profiling, benchmarking, and the application of established industry and academic insights. Additionally, you will be encouraged to engage with contemporary industry debates, such as sustainability, gender, and cultural awareness, to inform your design approach.

This module also introduces a fast-paced, short design ‘live project’ that will challenge your problem-solving and decision-making skills. You will be required to select and apply appropriate design methods to effectively communicate your design thinking to a client.

Building on your concept proposal from the previous module, you will present a fully developed interior design project, demonstrating technical specification and spatial planning proficiency while delivering a cohesive and appropriate ‘interior experience.’ This module concludes with a full ‘presentation for exhibition,’ which will communicate the rationale behind your design decisions, the uniqueness of your project, and how users will interact with the space and with each other.

This module further integrates and explores manual and digital design methods for design and design communication and continues to support portfolio development in preparation for placement and employment opportunities.

This module focuses on establishing the feasibility of your self-selected Major Design Project (MDP). Through in-depth research on your project theme, site and building analysis, as well as demographic and stakeholder analysis, you will develop valuable insights to inform the design direction of your project.

Key components include developing a personal design brief, setting strategic aims and objectives, managing research from multiple sources, and structuring conclusions. By the end of this module, you will also demonstrate your understanding of the building and site you are redeveloping through a set of project-ready plans, elevations, and sections.

In response to the insights and conclusions drawn in the previous module, you will demonstrate creativity and technical skill by constructing a concept design framework for your Major Design Project. You will explore ideation, mood board development, zonal planning, and design thinking while refining professional presentation techniques to communicate your concept proposal.

This module also includes responding to an external brief, such as the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) Student Design Awards, industry collaborations or ‘live’ community projects.

You will further develop and refine your Major Design Project within your chosen building, ensuring originality, feasibility, and alignment with your established aims. Key areas of focus will include detailed spatial planning, materiality, FF&E, and the integration of services, while seamlessly incorporating your concept proposal into the design. A professional client presentation will be a crucial component, emphasising advanced visual communication and the ability to respond effectively to feedback.

This module provides the opportunity to showcase your Major Design Project at the university degree show and to industry experts. You will refine your professional brand, enhance your CV, and develop a compelling design portfolio to demonstrate your readiness for interior design practice.