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Duration

One academic year

Tuition

8:1

Timetable

Course date:

8 September 2026 – 9 July 2027

Tuition Hours

10:00 - 16:00

Monday to Friday

Duration

Two academic years

Tuition

6:1 teaching ratio

Timetable

Course start dates:

1 September 2026

Tuition Hours

Flexible study hours within constraints of course schedule; weekly live meetings

Overview

Develop the creative, technical and professional skills needed for a successful career in interior design, building the confidence to transform spaces with imagination, purpose and precision.

The Inchbald Diploma in Architectural Interior Design provides a rigorous and inspiring foundation for a rewarding career in one of the world's most creative professions.

At the heart of the course is the design studio, where you will explore the relationship between people and space through a diverse range of residential, commercial and hospitality projects. Guided by practising designers and industry professionals, you will develop your understanding of design principles, spatial awareness and the sensory experience of interiors, while building the confidence to generate and communicate original ideas.

Drawing on both historical and contemporary design influences, the course develops your understanding of scale, form, light, texture, colour and materiality. Through a combination of lectures, workshops, tutorials and studio-based learning, you will gain the creative and technical expertise needed to respond to a variety of design challenges with clarity and confidence.

You will learn through a highly personalised and collaborative approach, benefiting from small studio groups, individual tuition and the exchange of ideas that has long been at the heart of the Inchbald learning experience.

Course content

Explore the art and practice of interior design through a rich and immersive programme of studio projects, workshops and professional development.

The Inchbald Diploma offers a rich and immersive education in architectural interior design, enabling you to develop the knowledge, skills and professional confidence required for contemporary practice.

Through a series of residential, commercial and hospitality projects, you will learn how to analyse spaces, develop design concepts and translate ideas into fully resolved interior schemes. Projects vary in scale and complexity, helping you build a diverse portfolio that demonstrates both creativity and technical ability.

You will develop strong visual communication skills through hand drawing, technical drafting, three-dimensional visualisation and computer-aided design (CAD). Alongside these creative skills, you will gain practical knowledge of materials, lighting, construction, joinery, specification, plumbing and professional project delivery.

Lectures and workshops provide theoretical inspiration, historical context and technical understanding, while visiting designers and industry specialists bring valuable professional insight into the studio environment.

A key focus of the course is learning how to communicate design ideas with clarity and professionalism. You will prepare and present concepts from the initial sketch stage through to a final design solution, supported by plans, sections, technical drawings, 3D visuals, mood imagery, materials boards, specifications and verbal presentations.

By the end of the course, you will have developed a substantial portfolio of work and a comprehensive understanding of the creative, technical and professional demands of architectural interior design, preparing you for employment, further study or professional practice.

Who is it aimed at?

The Inchbald Diploma in Architectural Interior Design is ideal for aspiring interior designers seeking a comprehensive and professionally focused education in design. Whether you are looking to begin a new career, build on existing creative experience or develop a stronger understanding of the built environment, the course provides the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the profession. With full-time on-campus and part-time online study routes available, you can choose the learning experience that best suits your personal and professional commitments. Learn from practising designers and industry experts while developing the creative, technical and professional expertise needed to make your mark in the world of interior design. Talk to us today to discover which study route is right for you.

Key info & fees

Full time: On campus

  • Course fees £36,100 (inc VAT)
  • A good command of written and spoken English and basic computer skills are required.
  • Our courses are designed for students from a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds. Whether you are beginning a new career, looking to build on existing creative experience, or seeking to deepen your design knowledge, we welcome applicants with enthusiasm, commitment, and a passion for design. We assess each application individually, considering your experience, portfolio (where appropriate), and potential to succeed on the course, rather than focusing solely on formal academic qualifications.

Part time: Online

  • The Inchbald Online Diploma in Architectural Interior Design is a two year part-time course. Early graduation at year one offer an exit award of the Inchbald Online Diploma in the Principles of Interior Design and Decoration. We encourage all students to progress to year two to build a strong portfolio of work.
  • Students completing both years are awarded the Inchbald Online Diploma in Architectural Interior Design.
  • Students who graduate with the full diploma are invited to exhibit with the in-house students in London.
  • Year one runs from September - July. Year two runs from September - July: in the summer term tutor guidance is offered to prepare for the Inchbald Annual Exhibition, in London
  • 26-27 total Course fees: £17,065.00 (inc VAT) over two years
  • Year one: £10,240.00 (inc VAT)
  • Year two: £6,825.00 (inc VAT)
  • Instalment plans are offered.
  • A good command of written and spoken English and basic computer skills are required.
  • Our courses are designed for students from a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds. Whether you are beginning a new career, looking to build on existing creative experience, or seeking to deepen your design knowledge, we welcome applicants with enthusiasm, commitment, and a passion for design. We assess each application individually, considering your experience, portfolio (where appropriate), and potential to succeed on the course, rather than focusing solely on formal academic qualifications.

Talk to us

Arrange an informal chat to discuss how this course fits with your goals and start your journey with Inchbald.

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