Course Overview
Course summary
Our Interior Architecture MA promotes a speculative approach to spatial design that is rooted in theory and the world of ideas. Those ideas, however, are deployed to confront contemporary questions and challenges. This MA course, therefore, is both conceptual and pragmatic; experimental and rigorous. With a special focus on people and place, the course will encourage you to develop a deep sympathy for the needs and aspirations of the users of a space, as well as a sensitivity towards (and response to) physical and social contexts.
Located within the School of Architecture and Cities in central London, you’ll be taught and guided by research-active and industry-experienced staff. Increasingly international, and ever growing, our sought-after Master's course offers you the opportunity to develop your own pathway and focus on a contemporary issue of special importance to you. The course will therefore give you a platform to develop personally and professionally; the outcomes from this approach are rich and diverse, representing the dynamism and diversity of our students, and the freedom and encouragement to embark on design-led adventures here at Westminster.
Our MA programme comprises a set of study modules that can be grouped into three categories: theory, technical substantiation, and design. Through our theory modules, you’ll encounter the ideas which underpin the understanding of place and site, including the notion that design and social practices are forms of cultural production. You’ll develop research and critical thinking skills, including the use of precedent study and design method. We’ll support you to achieve a high degree of technical proficiency in your work, including taking full advantage of our well-equipped workshops and digital craft facilities. You'll then progress to develop your own major project through either a design proposition or a written thesis. Within a critical pedagogical agenda we’ll challenge you to strive for a rich, mature synthesis of your learning, a process aimed to prepare you (academically, professionally and personally) for the challenges of a complex world.
Top reasons to study with us
- Learn from experts – You’ll be taught by experienced designers and research-active staff
- Outstanding facilities – We have exceptional workshop and digital fabrication facilities, enabling you to develop as a designer through traditional and contemporary craft techniques
- London connections – We have strong links with a wide range of London institutions, practices and sites, enabling us to incorporate lectures by visiting speakers and giving you the opportunity to network with industry professionals
Course structure
The following modules are indicative of what you study on this course.
Core modules
This module will present the major developments in Western Architecture from the Enlightenment to present day. It will introduce you to major cultural theories that have influenced architecture, art and design in general. It will also be an introduction to the theory of subjectivity and its relationship to the realm of interiority. The module will help you apply and find appropriate techniques for critical analysis through a series of seminars and workshops.
This module will prepare you for the subsequent Thesis Project module by introducing research methods relevant to interior architecture. Throughout this module you will critically engage with set theory and practice research areas; formulate individual research topics and questions; analyse literature sources; develop a research plan; and generate an individual research proposal for a suitable design-based or text-based thesis project.
This module complements the Retail Design module, for which students will have designed a proposal for an interior environment. In this module you'll be asked to critically reflect on your design proposition to develop and resolve its technical aspects. As a result, you'll produce a drawing package considering the material, environmental and regulatory imperatives of design for interior environments.
This module is committed to the rigorous investigation of a chosen interior environment(s), with particular focus on building typology, designed or otherwise, contemporary or historical and the relationship to/within the architectural setting. The module has been designed to complement the Thesis Project module, and provide a model for a thorough, forensic, in-depth empirical study based on a systematic comparative methodological investigation based on a number of appropriate criteria.
This module specifically deals with the research, development, synthesis, and conclusion of your chosen area of study for your individual thesis project. It is important to note that the thesis project can take a form – depending on the choice of the individual student -- that is design-based or text-based. The course of study for this module will as a consequence depend on the format and the research methods that each student is evolving for their thesis project.
Option modules
This module will help develop your understanding of heritage sites by exploring contemporary issues, mapping techniques, and resources. It encourages appreciation of both tangible and intangible heritage and fosters critical thinking about preservation and interpretation practices. The module explores representations of diverse traditions and cultures through teamwork and reflective practice; and will provide you with the skills and attributes necessary for cross-sector projects in the workplace.
This module will consider in context how design is utilised as an effective and persuasive tool in the contemporary retail environment. Issues of product marketing, branding, promotion and evaluation of public perception and the power of images will be investigated in a range of focussed design projects. You will be taught how to successfully marry cultural trends necessary for the success of any retail environment, with advanced design skills to materialise their conceptual proposition, which leads to a fully developed piece of design on a given site in London.
Course climate action statement
The driving principle of interior architecture is the adaptive re-use of buildings. In order to contribute to a more sustainable future, this course will train you to recycle existing structures and pay close attention to the sustainability of the materials deployed in such re-invention. This goes to the heart of interior architecture - socially and environmentally responsible and site responsive design, with a focus on the needs of people, their communities, and the wider world.
Architecture Tour and Facilities
Watch the video below to find out more about our facilities at the University's Marylebone Campus.
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
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Careers
The broad range of skills taught on the Interior Architecture MA has enabled our graduates to either strengthen or change their career paths. We strive to encourage our students to develop their professional interests while studying with us to allow them to build a portfolio of work that they can then use to find appropriate work in the sector once they graduate. As a result, the course has helped many students to relaunch their careers after graduation. Former graduates of this course practice in a variety of areas of design. These include interior architecture, retail design, exhibition design, set and lighting design, product design, and interior conservation, as well as multidisciplinary and traditional architectural and design practice. Our MA may also form a platform for continuing study with a career in academia or research.
For students who take the course and are interested in further study, we offer suitable applicants the opportunity to study for an MPhil/PhD degree, not only through the traditional research mode, but also through a PhD by design route.
Industry links
We are part of a wide network of architects and designers operating in London and further afield, enabling us to facilitate important links between our academic environment and professional practice.
Develop your own pathway
You’ll have the opportunity to develop your own pathway and focus on a contemporary issue of interest to you.
Employers around the world
The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Industry links
The School of Architecture and Cities is part of a wide network of architects and designers operating in London and further afield, which enables us to facilitate important links between our academic environment and professional practice.
We have strong links with a wide range of London institutions, practices, and sites including:
- Oxo Tower (Coin Street Community Builders)
- Regent Street Cinema
Royal Academy of Arts
Job roles
This course will prepare you for roles such as:
- Designer within an architectural team
- Interior architect/designer
- Researcher
- Specialist designer, eg lighting, furniture, digital, heritage, museums
- Visualiser, architectural representation
Graduate employers
Graduates from this course have found employment at organisations including:
- Gensler
- RFK Architects
- SCG : CDO Creative and Design Office, Bangkok
- The Ivy Collection
Westminster Employability Award
Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.
The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities.
Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.
Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.
Course Leader
David Littlefield
Senior Lecturer
David is an experienced academic, researcher, writer, designer and curator. He has written or made major contributions to more than a dozen books on architecture and cities, and has published widely on his specialist research areas – heritage and notions of place.
He studied at the University of Birmingham, Central St Martins and Chelsea School of Art & Design, and has worked with a wide range of clients including Grosvenor Estates, the V&A and Bath Abbey.
David is a director-trustee of the Interior Educators network, and co-edits the network’s publication IE:Studio.
Interior architecture is a free-thinking, experimental and even radical discipline. Centred on people, it can make a valuable contribution to addressing the many challenges faced by society today.
Course Team
Why study this course?
Outstanding facilities
We have exceptional workshop and state-of-the-art digital fabrication facilities.
Learn from experts
You’ll be taught by experienced designers and research-active staff, and benefit from lectures on specialist topics by visiting speakers.
Central London location
You'll study in the heart of central London, and enjoy the benefits of our strong links with a wide range of London institutions, practices, and sites.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in Architecture, Interior Architecture, Interior Design or a related design discipline. We also consider applicants from recognised international pre-Master’s programmes which include a portfolio element. We may also consider qualifications in other related subject areas, as well as demonstrable practical experience or knowledge of interior architecture, at the appropriate level. Applicants would ideally also be expected to have some relevant experience in interior architecture or design practice.
Applicants will be asked to submit their portfolio in an electronic format once they have made an application.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.
Portfolio guidance
The admissions process includes the submission of a design portfolio which demonstrates an applicant's track record in the following:
- design process (process as the continuous testing of design ideas leading to a logical and robust conclusion, rather than an exercise in shape-making)
- research and critical thinking skills, leading to ideas-based design
- technical proficiency, including awareness of material choices, surfaces and fabrication
- working at a wide range of scales (from a piece of furniture to an urban block)
- architectural representation using a wide range of media including, but not limited to, CAD (such as hand drawing, sketching, model making, diagramming, prototyping, photography, mixed-media and film)
- people-centred design (acknowledging people as physical bodies with ergonomic needs who occupy space)
- a genuine engagement with, and response to, context and place
You’ll be asked to provide a sample of your design work in the form of a digital portfolio, which reflects (as best you can) your engagement with the values and principles described above. Please submit a link to an online gallery (eg dropbox or similar) as part of your application. The portfolio should contain a representative sample of your own work demonstrating creative ability from your academic and professional work if applicable. Previous study and experience, such as photography, film or painting, may also be included. You are encouraged to provide an individual response reflecting your own particular skills and interests. If any work shown is group work, please make this clear and highlight your own personal contribution.
In addition to the digital portfolio, you should create a short video of 4-5 minutes. The video must be uploaded to an open platform (such as Youtube or Vimeo, or another accessible location) and the video link must be included in the portfolio. Please do not submit the raw video file with your application. In the video, you can briefly introduce yourself, though the emphasis should be on describing and explaining the portfolio design work, offering a verbal explanation of the your core design interests and methods. The video must be narrated by you, in your own voice, and in English (no sub-titles). The video may be as straightforward or as creative as you wish, so long as it communicates something of the your "voice" and ambition as a designer.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for applications
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in Architecture, Interior Architecture, Interior Design or a related design discipline. We also consider applicants from recognised international pre-Master’s programmes which include a portfolio element. We may also consider qualifications in other related subject areas, as well as demonstrable practical experience or knowledge of interior architecture, at the appropriate level. Applicants would ideally also be expected to have some relevant experience in interior architecture or design practice.
Applicants will be asked to submit their portfolio in an electronic format once they have made an application.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.
Portfolio guidance
The admissions process includes the submission of a design portfolio which demonstrates an applicant's track record in the following:
- design process (process as the continuous testing of design ideas leading to a logical and robust conclusion, rather than an exercise in shape-making)
- research and critical thinking skills, leading to ideas-based design
- technical proficiency, including awareness of material choices, surfaces and fabrication
- working at a wide range of scales (from a piece of furniture to an urban block)
- architectural representation using a wide range of media including, but not limited to, CAD (such as hand drawing, sketching, model making, diagramming, prototyping, photography, mixed-media and film)
- people-centred design (acknowledging people as physical bodies with ergonomic needs who occupy space)
- a genuine engagement with, and response to, context and place
You’ll be asked to provide a sample of your design work in the form of a digital portfolio, which reflects (as best you can) your engagement with the values and principles described above. Please submit a link to an online gallery (eg dropbox or similar) as part of your application. The portfolio should contain a representative sample of your own work demonstrating creative ability from your academic and professional work if applicable. Previous study and experience, such as photography, film or painting, may also be included. You are encouraged to provide an individual response reflecting your own particular skills and interests. If any work shown is group work, please make this clear and highlight your own personal contribution.
In addition to the digital portfolio, you should create a short video of 4-5 minutes. The video must be uploaded to an open platform (such as Youtube or Vimeo, or another accessible location) and the video link must be included in the portfolio. Please do not submit the raw video file with your application. In the video, you can briefly introduce yourself, though the emphasis should be on describing and explaining the portfolio design work, offering a verbal explanation of the your core design interests and methods. The video must be narrated by you, in your own voice, and in English (no sub-titles). The video may be as straightforward or as creative as you wish, so long as it communicates something of the your "voice" and ambition as a designer.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for applications
More information
What our students say
Pallav Kapoor
Interior Architecture MA - 2023
The opportunities to work on real-world projects, engage with guest speakers, and connect with practising professionals exceeded my expectations. This hands-on approach enriched my learning and prepared me for the realities of the professional world. The involvement of the course leader and other tutors has been inspiring.
Gunjan Khemka
Interior Architecture MA - 2023
The University of Westminster offers fantastic cutting-edge facilities. As a student, you can interact with accomplished lecturers, engage in hands-on workshops at the state-of-the-art Fabrication Lab, and benefit from the vibrant atmosphere of Central London - a city filled with diverse cultural experiences and abundant opportunities.
Dinemis Balkaroglu
Interior Architecture MA - 2023
Seeing how many fellow alumni you would meet in professional settings shows that the University of Westminster produces well-rounded graduates who are very good at their jobs.
MORE 2023 Degree Show
MORE is an annual exhibition of our postgraduate students' thesis projects. It showcases students’ talent, creativity, and strategic work. You can see the latest online collection at MORE 2023.
Image: student work by Shada Elmagri
Student work
Our end of year catalogue documents the results of a wide range of thesis projects that our students have developed. Have a look through the OPEN 2021 catalogue on ISSUU.com to see their work.
Students have also won an extraordinary number of international awards, including RIBA Presidents Medals, confirming our reputation as one of the world's leading centres for architectural education.
Learn new skills
Volunteer and gain new skills
We offer a number of different volunteering opportunities for you to learn new skills, create connections, and make a difference in the community.
Develop your entrepreneurial skills
Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your start-up projects.
Get extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £9,700 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,500 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
Facilities
Find out more about facilities at the School of Architecture and Cities.
Architecture studios
Our architecture studios provide unrivalled facilities for study and collaborative learning.
Architecture studios
Our architecture studios provide unrivalled facilities for study and collaborative learning.
Architecture studios
Our architecture studios provide unrivalled facilities for study and collaborative learning.
Fabrication Laboratory
The Fabrication Laboratory allows students to explore the exciting field of digital fabrication.
Fabrication Laboratory
Equipment includes ABS and plaster 3D printing, CNC knife cutting, large-scale CNC routing, CNC metal milling and robot fabrication.
Fabrication Laboratory
Work created in the Fabrication Laboratory.
Marylebone Library
Marylebone Library has a range of books and other resources on Architecture and Interiors.
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you’ll be taught
Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you’ll be assessed
Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into two broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
- Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2023/24
Research groups
Our research achieves real-world impact and we are proud to claim a rich and diverse profile of high-quality research and knowledge exchange in a wide range of disciplines.
Find out more about our research groups related to this course:
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course location
In the heart of London, our Marylebone Campus is home to the Westminster Business School and our Architecture, Planning and Tourism courses. Specialist workshops, dedicated digital and architecture studios, and our extensive Marylebone Library offer students everything they need for academic success.
Marylebone Campus is opposite Baker Street tube station and within easy walking distance of Regent's Park and Marylebone High Street.
For more details, visit our Marylebone Campus page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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