Interior Design for Beginners

No formal qualifications are required.

This course is suitable for beginners and those with a general interest in interior design, homes, architecture or creative design.

A basic ability to draw or an interest in sketching is helpful, but not essential as all skills are taught during the course.

Learners should be willing to take part in practical activities, develop ideas independently and engage in group discussions.

Learners must be aged 19 or over.

After completing this course, learners can:

Progress to further study, including the Interior Design Part 2 course at South Thames College.

Build a stronger portfolio to support applications for college, university or apprenticeships in design-related fields.

Develop personal projects (such as redesigning their own home or small-scale interiors) with greater confidence and understanding of design principles.

Progress to specialist short courses in areas such as CAD, SketchUp, interior styling, lighting design or residential interior design.

Receive guidance from tutors on potential career pathways within interior design, architecture, styling, retail design or related creative industries.

All materials for in-class activities will be provided, but learners are encouraged to bring a sketchbook and basic drawing tools.

You may be asked to complete small research or sketch tasks between sessions to support your design project.

Digital tools are optional as learners can work by hand or use their own laptops/tablets if preferred.

Classes take place at South Thames College in a studio-style classroom environment.

Attendance at all sessions is recommended to complete the final project and receive feedback.

This course is suitable for adults aged 19+ and welcomes learners from all backgrounds. No previous design experience is required.

The course will include 2 modules that are designed to be sequential. There are assignments at the end of each module which will require you to participate in the design experience. The assignments are designed to help you build your first professional portfolio.

Each session includes:

*Practical design workshops

*Short tutor presentations and demonstrations

*Guided project work and one-to-one feedback

*Development of sketchbooks, moodboards and design concepts

This course is informally assessed through practical project work rather than written exams.

Learners will be assessed on:

*Engagement and participation in practical workshops and discussions

*Development of design ideas through sketching, research and moodboards

*Completion of a mini design project based on a client brief or chosen interior space

*Final presentation, where learners explain their design concept using drawings, visuals and materials

*Sketchbook or portfolio work, showing process, inspiration and creative thinking

Feedback is continuous throughout the course, with tutor guidance provided in each session to help learners improve their work and develop confidence.

No formal exams or grades are given — instead, learners receive supportive feedback and a record of achievement.

Through practical workshops and real-life design projects, you will develop the confidence to communicate your ideas using sketches, moodboards, sample materials, and digital tools. You will also explore the history of interiors, learn about sustainability, and how interior design can positively impact the way people live, work and feel in a space.

You will be taught by industry professionals who will guide you step-by-step through the design process - from concept to presentation. No previous experience is required, only a passion for interiors and an interest in how spaces can be transformed.