Durban University of Technology Interior Design
Interior Design Department
Tel: 031 373 6504
Fax: 031 373 6505
Location: City Campus
The Department has a proud tradition of educating students for Industry and the high calibre of our students has been recognised both nationally and internationally. An Interior Designer is responsible for the structural planning and aesthetic imaging of corporate, retail, commercial and domestic interiors such as restaurants, shops, exhibition stands, bars, hairdressing salons, offices, hotels, function rooms, private homes, etc.
The professional is involved in the total design of these areas and therefore requires a considerable knowledge of all technical aspects such as lighting, air-xconditioning, plumbing, construction methods, as well as internal finishes and furniture selection. As Interior Design is closely related to the world of changing trends, the designer must also have a knowledge of past, current and future fashions and styles. The designer may also be involved in the design of domestic architecture for which he/she would require a knowledge of planning and of building construction methods. The designer is responsible for producing the design concept and then following through with the working drawings, contract administration and supervision of the installation.
He/she would associate and work closely with architects, quantity surveyors, various consultants, building contractors, shopfitters, subcontractors and a variety of manufacturers and suppliers.
Personal Qualites Required
The Interior Designer must have drawing ability, an awareness of current trends and an eye for detail, but more importantly must have a strong creative imagination and an ability to communicate his/her ideas visually and verbally. All these aspects are covered in subjects throughout the course using the latest technologies including CAD. Interior Design is related to the building industry and the designer would benefit by having an aptitude for the technical aspects.
Entry Requirements
National Diploma Interior Design
Bachelor of Technology Interior Design
National Diploma Interior Design
The Senior Certificate or an equivalent qualification with English Language competency as stipulated in the Departmental handbook. Owing to the large number of applications and limited facilities, students may be accepted on the basis of a portfolio, undergo a personal interview and complete a drawing test and questionnaire.
The portfolio is to consist of a minimum of 10 original drawings NOT copied from photographs, in pencil, pencil crayon or other mediums (e.g. ink, pastels, magic marker) comprising of:
- Architectural details
- Furniture
- Ornaments
- Man made objects
- Mechanical objects
- Natural forms
- Technical Drawings
Drawings should be on paper and should be submitted in a folder (at the interview), with the applicant’s name clearly HAND LETTERED on the front. The applicant’s name should appear on every drawing.