New Zealand Diploma in Interior Design (Residential)
Architecture
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
A hands-on diploma preparing you for a career in residential interior design, developing both creative and technical design skills covering design principles, materials, business management, and industry experience.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Apply theory and practice to interior design
Demonstrate understanding of core design principles, light, colour, and material selection in residential interiors.
Develop practical design skills
Produce professional interior design work using freehand, manual, and digital drafting and rendering tools.
Understand industry standards and regulations
Interpret and apply building codes, laws, and ergonomic guidelines relevant to residential interiors.
What You're Signing Up For
This programme equips students for the residential interior design industry whether they’re new entrants or working professionals seeking a formal qualification. It covers the theory and practical aspects of interior design, including light and colour, materials and finishes, design principles, ergonomic considerations, business and communication skills, building codes and regulations, freehand and software drafting, and work-integrated learning in industry. Students will also participate in a public exhibition of their work.
Course Content
- Light and colour in interior spaces
- Design principles and concepts
- Materials and finishes for interiors
- Lighting and soft furnishings
- Window treatments
- Ergonomic principles
- New Zealand art and cultural influences on design
- Architectural communication and building codes
- Laws and regulations applicable to residential interiors
- Business management and professional presentation
- Freehand drawing and manual drafting
- Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Photoshop
- Work-integrated learning
- Public exhibition of design work
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 2 including: 10 Numeracy credits at Level 1 or above and 10 Literacy credits at Level 2 or above
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Architecture
Residential Design
Interior Design
Future employment opportunities might be
Interior Designer (Residential)
Design Assistant in interior design practices
Self-employed residential designer