Undergraduate BSc (Hons)

Interior Architecture

School of Science, Engineering and Environment

Attendance

Full-time

Course

Three year

Next enrolment

September 2024

Introduction

In a nutshell

Finding imaginative and sustainable uses for buildings in our space-constrained cities is a key challenge for interior architects and designers. Become part of the solution to this vital urban challenge with our exciting BSc (Hons) Interior Architecture degree.

Working alongside our Architecture and Architectural Engineering students in our dynamic studio environment, you will experience action-learning as you build design principles, understand how to shape better building experiences, appreciate the ergonomics of a space and spot how a building can maximise its potential. 

Guided by international expert tutors, our course will help you to develop career-essential knowledge and skills. Through our enviable location close to buzzing central Manchester, our strong industry links, and our professional studio environment, you'll study architecture in an inspiring, engaging way during your time at Salford.

Not sure about this level of study? We also offer Interior Architecture with a foundation year entry pathway.

Start your study journey

Register for our next Open Day to learn more about studying Interior Architecture, explore our facilities and meet the course team

You will:

  • Explore intelligent design and critically examine how space is occupied and understood, at both individual and group levels
  • Consider a building’s total design, including themes and issues such as heritage, ergonomics, materials, structures and connected systems
  • Collaborate with students from other built environment disciplines as you focus on the 'making of buildings’
  • Build industry connections as you work on live briefs across Greater Manchester and beyond
International

students accepted

This is for you if...

1.

You have a real passion for developing, advancing and shaping the future of the built environment

2.

You want to combine highly imaginative creative design skills with sound technical and management knowledge

3.

You are creative and an original thinker

Course details

All about the course

Architecture student

Course Delivery

Taking a creative approach to building adaptation and reuse, through strategic design, construction and sustainability, our Interior Architecture degree course considers the built environment in a collaborative and imaginative way. With a focus on your future career in industry, we promote action learning and nurture your skillset to reflect workplace trends and contemporary practice.

You’ll focus on architectural spatiality and studio-based activities in your first year, then you will explore how to design according to performance criteria and conceptual frameworks in year two with an optional overseas study visit. Bring it all together by applying all your knowledge in a final interior architecture project to present at our annual degree show.

Learn more about the course modules in the section below.

Group of architecture students

Learning Experience

With our enviable location at the heart of buzzing central Manchester, our expert academic team draws on close industry partnerships with architecture, engineering and construction sectors, to bring you guest lectures, networking opportunities and local architectural projects that will support your knowledge and skill progression. Through live briefs and guest lectures, you’ll graduate excited and inspired, ready to help change our environment for the better.

With our Interior Architecture degree, you will study the Design Representation and Modelling module that will introduce you to both creative and technical concepts and techniques of drawing, modelling, and alternative forms of representations. It will develop your ability to produce 2-D and 3-D architectural models to help you become part of the solution to vital urban challenges.

Based at our green Peel Park campus, we use fascinating action and studio-based learning experiences to ensure you study in an inspiring engaging way. You’ll have the opportunity to tackle live briefs, sketch ideas and make models as you fill your Instagram feed with impressive local architecture. Receive an immersive, rewarding experience at Salford where you can showcase your design skills at our degree show.

Year one

Interior Architecture Design Studio 1A

You will be introduced to architectural design thinking through the understanding of the inter-relationships between people and their immediate environment in place making.

Design Representation and Modelling

You will be introduced to the concept and techniques of drawing, modelling and alternative forms of representations of architectural design. The module will develop your ability to interpret and produce 2-D and 3-D architectural representations (e.g. plans, sections, elevations, axonometric and perspective projections) and models (e.g. analogue, physical and digital).

New

Construction Technology in Architecture 1

This module will introduce you to construction technology and building fabric design by focussing on principles of architectural structures using natural processes as exemplar. It explores what structures and systems mean in architecture and the environment, and introduces principles, including structural equilibrium, and the techniques of assessment of stress and deformation in simple elements. Common materials, assemblies and construction techniques used to achieve safe, environmentally sound tectonic strategies will be explained and exemplified with particular emphasis on the principles, elements and techniques of domestic architecture.

History and Theory of Architecture 1

You will be introduced to the canon of western architectural history and its underlying ideological assumptions. It locates the major practices and sites of western architecture in a wide visual and cultural context and critically examines its relevance to the practicing architect today.

Interior Architecture Design Studio 1B

You will develop your interior and architectural thinking and appreciate the implications of the inter-relationships between people, the environment and place making through the development of a building design of a low to medium level of complexity.

New

Construction Technology in Architecture 2

This module builds on your introduction to structure, materials and fabric by introducing you to the challenges for the built environment of the Climate Emergency, and by introducing principles of Environmental Design, Systems and Services. The module will discuss building physics and a building’s fabric, and how its environmental services and systems need to be combined to provide physiological, thermal, visual and acoustic comfort. It will also introduce the need to attend to the physical and psychological health, safety and wellbeing of the occupants and the welfare of those making and maintaining buildings when making design decisions. You will consider how principles of responsive design (both passive and interactive) can be utilised in relation to the principles, elements and techniques of sustainable design of domestic architecture.

Year two

New

Interior Architecture Design Studio 2A

This module will further develop your understanding of, and ability to apply, the principles of interior and architectural design, with specific reference to the re-use and redevelopment of existing buildings.

Principles of Sustainable Built Environments

You will develop a comprehensive recognition and understanding of global and local principles of sustainability in the built environment. You will also develop knowledge and understanding of the relationship between sustainable design and construction processes and their social, environmental and economic impact. This module will also provide you with the necessary knowledge, understanding and skills to engage in the design, procurement, and construction of sustainable built environment.

History and Theory of Architecture 2

You will gain a broad understanding of the history and theory of architecture focused on the examination of the histories of modern architecture.

New

Design Studio 2B: Performance Modelling and Integrated Design

This module comprises the further development and formation of an iterative architectural design methodology. It builds on the integrated Design approach introduced in Design Studio 2A and further develops this via the notion of performative and performance-based design. Through the module you will undertake projects for public use and design buildings of moderate complexity and further your abilities to contribute to the creation of place in urban, peri-urban or rural contexts. In addition, you will also you will gain the skills and ability to deploy digital technologies such as BIM and Computational Design in the development of design alternatives in a further development of your and ability to apply the principles of architectural design, in relationship to the structural, technological and environmental requirements and deepen your understanding of an iterative and integrated building design process.

New

Construction Technology in Architecture 3

This module further develops your understanding of technological innovation in architecture integrating the parallel strands of Structure and Services introduced to you in year 1 through two core themes central to Building Fabric Design: Design for Climate and Sustainability and Design for Human and Life Safety. Through these themes you will develop competencies in more advanced construction techniques, systems and assemblies for non-domestic buildings, and through this you will extend and develop your technical vocabulary and grasp of building physics and building fabric design for more complex building forms in terms of scale, multiple storeys, and for medium as well as long clear spans.

New

Multi-Disciplinary Design Project

The multidisciplinary module allows you to engage in a multidisciplinary practice-based environment and gain an insight into industrial practice. Utilising a real-world scenario you will work collectively to communicate a project solution to a panel of assessors through varying forms of media. This module is supported with a series of industrial guest speakers to offer real-life practices, procedures, technologies and communication techniques.

Year three

New

Interior Architecture Design Studio 3A

You will develop, research and explore an interior architectural proposal in the context of a complex design project. You will apply the necessary skills, competencies and understanding of a selected range of theoretical, technical, cultural, historical and professional issues, and the ability to integrate them into your design proposition. You will expand your design research methods to include (fine) art practices, in particular those which focus on the development of spatial interventions.

Re-creating the City - Re-use and Regeneration

You will explore the theme of regeneration and application of architecture practice in the regeneration of cities and urban environments.

Practice Management and Law

This module aims to prepare you for industry practice by equipping you with a comprehensive understanding of the profession of interior architecture. You will develop an understanding of the role of the interior architect in society. You will learn about the management of the construction industry, the role of the architectural practice and responsibilities of each within the regulatory legal context within which interior architecture operates.

New

Interior Architecture Design Studio 3B

You will apply and test your interior architecture design skills in the context of a complex design project. You will develop the skills, competencies and understanding of a selected range of theoretical, technical, cultural, historical and professional issues, and the ability to integrate them into their designs.

Ideas and Issues in Interior Architecture

The aim of this module is for you to develop your design thinking and appreciate the implications of the inter-relationships between people, the environment and place making through the development of an interior design intervention of a medium to high level of complexity.

Design Research Project

You will learn to write and deliver an extended and coherent study on a design related topic. On completion, you will demonstrate competency in research skills in support of future learning development. This module will help you to develop the skills of reflective practice through engagement with contemporary architecture and urbanism.

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What will I be doing?

TEACHING

As an Interior Architecture student, you will spend a lot of time in the Architecture studios, where you will develop your knowledge and skills through a blend of theoretical, collaborative and practical methods:

  • Studio projects
  • Projects with other students
  • Lectures
  • Tutorials
  • Directed study
  • One-to-one tutorials (by appointment)
  • Guest lecturers and visits to construction sites, completed buildings etc.

ASSESSMENT

You will be assessed through a combination of exams, projects and coursework:

  • Design projects
  • Essays
  • Case study analysis
  • Precedent studies
  • Design portfolios
  • Examinations

School of Science, Engineering and Environment

Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our degree courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, and industry leaders. 

Driven by industry, and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to become unstoppable in your career. 

Facilities

As an Interior Architecture student, you will learn in our carefully designed architecture studios provide an inspiring environment to develop ideas, work collaboratively and share best practice.

We also have workshops which house high specification equipment, including laser cutters and 3-D printers, to help you bring your ideas and concepts to life.

Industry collaboration and research

When you start this degree with Salford, you are also joining a community making a difference in industry, our local region and in our wider society.

Many of our academics and technicians who support your course also deliver collaborative, interdisciplinary, high-impact work in a range of local and global built environment issues and challenges.

Discover how you are part of something bigger.

Employment and stats

What about after uni?

EMPLOYMENT

This course is designed to help you to develop a range of personal and professional skills which will make you highly employable. These include report writing and presentation skills, IT skills and team work and project management skills.

By successfully completing an interior architecture degree, a wide range of exciting career opportunities will be open to you. Interior Architects are highly valued in many sectors and work widely throughout the creative industries. You may be working within an architectural practice (i.e. Foster and Partners, Benoy, Gensler, MHA Architects, Mason Gillibrand Architects etc.), a retail and experience design agency (i.e. Household, Brinkworth) or within the hospitality, workplace and exhibition design arenas. You may also specialise in lighting design and consultancy (i.e. Arup, Buro Happold).

FURTHER STUDY

We offer specialist postgraduate study options to help you take your architecture career even further. Salford graduates and alumni will also receive a significant fees discount. 

MSc BIM and Digital Built Environments

MSc Real Estate and Property Management

A taste of what you could become

An interior architect

An experiential designer

A retail designer

A workplace consultant

A lighting designer

And more...

Requirements

What you need to know

APPLICANT PROFILE 

This course is ideal for those with an interest in building design who want to combine highly imaginative creative design skills with the sound technical and management knowledge base that is essential for success in today’s design, architecture and construction industries.

In addition to our academic entry requirements, we also look for certain characteristics in each applicant. Having these characteristics will not only help you to fulfil your academic potential, but they are also essential if you want a successful built environment career.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. An IELTS score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5) is proof of this, and we also accept a range of equivalent qualifications.

Read more about our English language requirements, including information about pathways that can help you gain entry on to our degree courses. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take our Pre-Sessional English course to gain entry onto this degree.

ADDITIONAL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

All candidates must submit a portfolio. Letters of verification confirming that the portfolio is your own work must accompany the portfolio. For example, the letter can use school/college headed paper and be signed by your tutor. For mature students, the letter should be written and signed by someone with an industry connection. 

Please read our guidance for portfolio preparation and submission. Your portfolio must be sent to the Admissions Team: admissionsSEE-UG@salford.ac.uk

Standard entry requirements

GCSE

English Language and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent). You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.

UCAS tariff points

112 tariff points.

A Level

112 tariff points.

BTEC National Diploma

DMM

BTEC Higher National Diploma

Please contact Admissions for further information.

Foundation Degree

Please contact Admissions for further information.

Access to HE

112 tariff points.

Scottish Highers

112 tariff points from Higher Level.

Irish Leaving Certificate

112 tariff points from Higher Level.

European Baccalaureate

Please contact Admissions for further information.

International Baccalaureate

30 points.

Other Qualifications

Please contact Admissions for further information.

International students

We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements.

Alternative entry requirements

Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)

We positively welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we receive your application, we'll assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.

There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.

Please contact Admissions for further information.

How much?

Type of study Year Fees
Full-time home 2024/25 £9,250.00per year
Full-time international 2024/25 £17,040.00per year

Additional costs

You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.

International student scholarships

If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships.

Learn more about our latest international scholarships.

Apply now

All set? Let's apply

Enrolment dates

September 2024

UCAS information

Course ID K120

Institution S03