The BA (Hons) Interior Design at GSA is a conceptually driven, studio-based program that prepares students to design spatial experiences that are innovative, responsive, and critically engaged. The course emphasizes the transformation of existing buildings and spaces, combining theory and practice with cultural, ethical, and aesthetic considerations.
Key focus areas include:
Conceptual Design Thinking: Emphasis on narrative, spatial atmosphere, and user experience.
Adaptive Reuse: Designing new experiences within existing architectural contexts.
Sustainability: Integration of sustainable design practices and responsible material use.
Human-Centered Design: Deep focus on the social, cultural, and experiential aspects of space.
Technical Skills: Development of skills in drawing, digital representation (CAD, 3D), construction detailing, and visual storytelling.
Year-wise Breakdown of Core Modules
Year 1: Foundations
Introduction to spatial awareness, materiality, and drawing as a communication tool.
Development of conceptual and visual language through exploratory studio projects.
Introduction to histories and theories of design.
Year 2: Intermediate
Engagement with real-world scenarios across various spatial typologies (retail, hospitality, public space).
Further development of digital and physical modelling, technical drawing, and narrative design.
Integrated studies in design theory and contextual understanding.
Year 3: Advanced
Focus on user-centred and ethically responsive design solutions.
Development of individual design identity and advanced technical proficiency.
External projects and potential collaborations with practicing professionals or other institutions.
Opportunity for international exchange.
Year 4: Independent Practice
Self-directed final major project that reflects critical and professional awareness.
Production of a written dissertation.
Final design portfolio and public exhibition as part of GSA Degree Show.
Learning and Assessment Methods
Studio Practice: Core to the program; includes critiques, tutorials, and hands-on model-making.
Lectures & Seminars: Provide contextual, theoretical, and historical understanding of interior design.
Workshops: Focused sessions in materials, lighting, and digital tools (Rhino, Revit, Adobe Suite).
Peer & Staff Reviews: Regular feedback and critique sessions.
Assessment: 100% coursework – includes design projects, portfolios, essays, and verbal presentations.
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025:
Top 10 in the world for Art & Design.
Glasgow School of Art is internationally renowned for its excellence in creative education and research.
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International Exchange: Available in Year 3 through GSA’s global network of partner institutions.
Live Projects: Engagement with external clients and real-world briefs in later years.
Field Trips: Local and international site visits to support design research (e.g., Milan, Berlin).
Degree Show: Public exhibition of final year work, attended by industry professionals.
Collaborations: Opportunities to work across disciplines with architecture, fine art, or design innovation students.
Career Outcomes:
Graduates work in:
Interior and spatial design
Set and production design (TV, film, theatre)
Exhibition and museum design
Retail and hospitality design
Environmental and experiential branding
Notable Employers:
Graduates have gone on to work with:
Foster + Partners
Universal Design Studio
Studioilse
Timorous Beasties
Graven
Imagination
Postgraduate Opportunities:
Progression to Master of European Design (MEDes) or MDes Interior Design at GSA or other top design schools.
GSA also offers a PhD in Design, subject to application and portfolio.
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