Interior architecture

What is interior architecture?
Interior architecture focuses on designing and enhancing interior environments, and combines architecture and design to create functional, aesthetically pleasing and sustainable spaces. While traditional architecture deals with designing buildings that enhances experiences through spatial, technological and environmental considerations, interior architecture emphasises the interior spaces and how they interact with the occupants. This discipline is crucial for improving the quality of life, promoting well-being, and addressing environmental challenges through innovative design solutions. At UNSW, our program equips you with the skills to shape the spaces in which we live, work, play and gather together.
Why study interior architecture at UNSW?
You'll study at UNSW's School of Built Environment, ranked #1 in Sydney and #23 globally for architecture & built environment (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025). Our Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours) degree is recognised by the and recognised by the (DIA) and the (IFI).
Studying interior architecture at UNSW combines theoretical and practical learning with real-world experiences through Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and professional placements. You'll benefit from extensive industry partnerships, graduating with the skills and connections needed to tackle future challenges. See our Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours) to find out more.Â
Careers in interior architecture
At UNSW Built Environment, you’ll gain career-ready skills alongside a deep understanding of the environmental, cultural, and historical contexts of interior architecture and design. While interior architecture focuses on the functionalities and structure of spaces, interior design emphasises on the decorative aspects like colours, furniture, and decor to enhance aesthetics – our degrees cover both these fields. As a graduate, you will be ready to meet industry demands for innovative and sustainable interior architecture solutions and pursue careers as:
Interior Architect
Space Planner
Corporate and Bespoke Interior Designer
Design Consultant and more. Â
You’ll gain the confidence and connections to kickstart your career, setting new standards for how we live.
Alumni
"My degree in Interior Architecture provided me with a solid foundation in CAD design and an understanding of how to create compelling narratives through design. These skills have been invaluable in my current role, allowing me to explore and maximise the potential of interior spaces effectively. The ability to tell a story through design is a core element that I continually apply in my work."Â
Cassandra Whatson
Interior Designer and Draftsperson (Studio XOX), Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours)
Our facilities
UNSW School of Built Environment is equipped with the latest, industry-aligned tools and technologies. Architecture students will get familiar with the software and techniques they’ll be expected to know when they enter the workforce.
Design Futures Lab
°Õ³ó±ðÌý is a workshop and community space for students and researchers to learn through making. Architecture students can experiment through hands-on interactions and work collaboratively with researchers, staff and fellow students to explore and create innovative design solutions. The lab features .
The Livability Lab
The Livability Lab investigates the design of the built environment for those who are often excluded from design decisions. The lab boasts an 18-camera 3D motion capture system, handheld 3D scanner, pressure mats and an array of anthropometric measurement equipment to assess ergonomics, biomechanics and useability.
Studio spaces
Students can bring their ideas to life in purpose-built, natural light-filled architecture studio spaces. Studios are located within the Anita B. Lawrence Centre (formerly the Red Centre) and Squarehouse. This is where students can come to explore their creativity individually and collaborate with others.
Study
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Transform interiors into experiences. Through inspired design and thoughtful execution, your interior architecture journey unfolds here.
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The four-year, fulltime degree includes an embedded honours and leads to professional qualifications in interior architecture. Upon completion, you will be ready to effectively respond to the multi-disciplinary, global demands inherent in the reshaping of our future interiorscapes with your ethical, collaborative and creative skillset.
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The Master of Architecture provides professional education in the practice and theory of knowledge in techniques in architectural design, as well as related technical and academic knowledge.
You can choose from four distinct specialised streams:
- High-Performance Technology
- Housing
- Urban Conditions
- Social Agency
Your chosen stream will be recognised on your degree certificate. Or, you can choose design studios and courses from across all four streams to broaden your knowledge.