Top Universities to study Interior Architecture in Australia

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Does the idea of decoration, buildings, or reinventing spaces appeal to you? Perhaps you want to be involved in completing the structural design of spaces? Then, Interior Architecture may be your calling! Together, let’s look at our guide to Interior Architecture along with recommended universities to study Interior Architecture in Australia.

What is Interior Architecture?

Interior Architecture is a practice balancing between aesthetics and functionalities of interior spaces. The field of Interior Architecture aims to optimise both new and existing physical internal spaces while also looking closely at the structural elements of a building. These structures include window and door placements, ventilation, heating, electrical, plumbing, as well as interior decoration.

Interior Architects predominantly refurbish existing buildings and adapt spaces into functional rooms with human-centric approaches. An example of an Interior Architecture project is to change an old theatre building into a living complex. Some other responsibilities for an Interior Architect is to collaborate in a team to create a design from scratch and oversee their projects from beginning to end.

Interior Architecture differs from Interior Design where Interior Architecture does not only focus on aesthetics but also heeds with structural aspects and the functionality of a space. Read our article on the differences between Interior Interior and Interior Architecture here.

Types of Interior Architecture

Types of Interior Architecture	Description
Classic Interior Style	A classic style of Interior Architecture enamours a space with aesthetics that are long-lasting and withstands the test of time. Some features of a classic Interior Architecture style are harmonious symmetries, elaborate ornaments, and elegant lines.
Industrial Interior Style	Industrial style of Interior Architecture is rooted in celebrating the industrial revolution. An industrial style incorporates the apparent use of bricks, concrete, repurposed materials, and natural industrial lighting.
Minimalist Interior Style	Minimalist Interior Architecture embraces simplicity and the motto ‘less is more’, rejecting consumerism. The minimalist style utilises attributes such as natural lighting, few furnitures, and usually white backdrops.
Rustic Interior Style	Rustic style of Interior Architecture centres on using raw materials and highlights the use of wood, stone, leaves, and other organic elements. Rustic styles embrace nature where function reigns over appearance.
Ethnic Interior Style	Ethnic Interior Architecture combines design with the influence of unique cultures. It is a way to show cultural identity and heritage where diversity can be celebrated and a story can be told.

Skills required to study Interior Architecture

Creativity

Creativity is essential for thinking up solutions to problems especially in finding ways to repurpose old spaces. Similarly, creative flair is necessary in translating imaginative and innovative designs.

Organised

Planning and budgeting within a set timeline plays a huge part in Interior Architecture. In order to ensure projects go smoothly, organisation skills should be well-honed.

Collaborative

Many times, you’d have to effectively communicate with clients and work in a team when completing design projects. The skill of being collaborative is integral to how well you’ll be able to do these things and in turn, ensure success in completing them.

Lifelong Learner

In Interior Architecture, there are many things you have to keep up with – design trends, updated Architectural approaches, sustainable practices. That’s why, there should be dedication to being a lifelong learner and being resourceful.

Technical Knowledge

Those looking to study Interior Architecture should familiarise themselves with softwares for Computer-Aided Design and 3D Visualisation. For instance, softwares like AutoCAD and SketchUp. Instead of diving in blind, learning an Interior Architecture degree would further sharpen your skills in using these softwares.

Career Options for Interior Architecture Graduate

These are some options for an Interior Architecture graduate. Do note that some professions may require further study after an undergrad in Interior Architecture.

Architect
Interior Designer/Architect
Urban Planner
Lighting Consultant
Restoration Architect
Exhibition Designer
Design Consultant
Property Designer
Project Manager
Production Designer

Salaries for Interior Architecture graduates may vary depending on which roles you decide to pursue. However, in Australia, the average annual salary for an Interior Designer ranges from AU$70,000 to AU$90,000. Otherwise, an Architect makes an average annual salary ranging from AU$85,000 to AU$105,000. These salaries can be different depending on which state you plan to work in.

Interior Architecture degree entry requirements in Australia

Academic Entry

Academic Entry	Minimum Score
STPM	Aggregate of 3
Matriculation	Aggregate of 6 (Best 3 Subjects)
A-Levels	Aggregate of 7 (Best 3 Subjects)
UEC	Aggregate of 2
IB Diploma	26
Australian Matriculation (ATAR)	66
Canadian Pre-University (CPU)	65

Note: Universities may have different requirements. To learn more, get in touch with us!

English Language Entry Requirements

Entry Level	Minimum Score
IELTS	6.0
TOEFL	60
Pearson Test of English (PTE)	50

Note: Universities may have different requirements. To learn more, get in touch with us!

How to be an Architect in Australia?

First, pass an SPM or an equivalent examination which allows you to qualify into a relevant pre-university programme.

Second, pass the pre-university programme and qualify into an undergraduate Architecture or Architecture-related undergraduate degree. The undergraduate programme commonly takes up to 3 or 4 years.

Alternatively, you can complete a Diploma in Architecture or in Interior Design or any related Diploma, taking up from 8 to 18 months. After, you could be granted into the second year of an undergraduate degree programme.

After, enrol into an accredited master’s degree. Sometimes, an institution would allow a direct progression from an undergraduate to a master’s degree. A master’s degree usually has a duration of 2 years.

Next, to officially practise as a Registered Architect in Australia, you should register with the particular state or territory’s Architect Registration Board. Regardless, this step requires you to pass a three-part competency assessment process overseen by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) called the Architectural Practice Examination (APE).

Top Universities to Study Interior Architecture in Australia

1. University of New South Wales

The University of New South Wales, or UNSW, is a notable public higher education learning institution in Australia established in 1949. UNSW is placed in the top 20 of universities worldwide and ranked second among Australian universities, making it an excellent study destination for those interested in studying Interior Architecture.

The University of New South Wales offers a Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours) programme where students will explore the theory and practice of Interior Architecture through an accredited curriculum and placement opportunities. Students will also have access to many supportive student associations along with the option to progress into UNSW’s  Master of Architecture programme to increase employability.

Programme Offered	Bachelor of Interior Architecture (Honours)
Duration	4 Years
Intake	February, September
Indicative Fees (2024)	International Students: AU$205,000