Inside Kenya’s Best Interior Design College: Ikigai College

What’s it really like to study interior design in Kenya in 2025? Is it just about drawing room layouts and choosing colour palettes—or is there more?

Let’s take you on a journey inside Ikigai College of Interior Design, one of the best interior design schools in Kenya. Whether you’re an aspiring designer looking for interior design courses in Nairobi, or a working professional seeking to pivot into the built environment, here’s what your life could look like at the top interior design college in Kenya.

Morning: Sketchpads, Coffee, and Concept Boards

Classes at Ikigai College begin in creative studios where sunlight floods open-plan classrooms and students gather around design boards. You’ll likely start your day with a session on Design Principles and Space Planning—a foundational course taught by professionals who’ve worked on office towers in Westlands, boutique hotels in Naivasha, and luxury homes in Karen.

Instructors don’t just lecture; they coach. You’re encouraged to develop your own voice as a designer while learning how to balance function and form. Every student is paired with a mentor, and critiques are framed as collaborations—not evaluations.

Midday: Software Labs and Industry Tools

After a short café break , students head to the digital lab. Here, you’ll work with the latest versions of AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite—the must-know tools of any modern interior designer.

Even beginners are guided step-by-step, with short workshops designed to help you create floor plans, 3D renderings, and mood boards. These sessions are hands-on, project-based, and designed to simulate real-life studio work.

Ikigai College isn’t just offering software training—it’s offering job readiness.

Afternoon: Guest Talks, Group Projects & Design Crits

In the afternoons, students might join a live webinar with an international designer, attend a material sampling workshop hosted by local suppliers, or present group projects on retail space concepts.

The focus is always on real-world learning:

You’ll visit construction sites.
Collaborate on commercial and residential mock projects.
Get feedback from architects, lighting experts, and sustainability consultants.

By the end of each term, you’re not just submitting assignments—you’re building a professional portfolio that you can use to apply for internships or pitch to clients.

Student Voices: What Ikigai College Means to Us

“When I joined, I had no design background. Now, I’m interning with a firm in Westlands and working on actual restaurant interiors. Ikigai helped me believe I could do this.” – Njeri, Diploma Student

“What surprised me most? The community. You’re not just a student—you’re part of a tribe of creatives.” – Brian, Certificate Graduate

These testimonials reflect what rankings can’t always show: Ikigai College offers an unmatched experience in interior design education in Kenya.

Why Ikigai College Stands Out (And Stays Ahead)

Here’s what sets Ikigai apart from other interior design colleges in Kenya:

Industry-Focused Curriculum: Courses are updated annually with input from practicing designers and architects.

Creative + Technical Balance: Learn design theory and software side-by-side so you graduate ready to work.

Practical Learning: Site visits, client briefs, and live projects simulate the working world of design.

Career Support: From internship placements to portfolio clinics and alumni networking, Ikigai prepares you for the professional world.

Flexible Study Options: Whether you want a full-time interior design diploma course or a short, skill-specific certificate in interior design, there’s a path for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What qualifications do I need to join an interior design course in Kenya?
To enroll in an interior design course in Kenya, most colleges—including Ikigai College of Interior Design—require a KCSE certificate or an equivalent qualification. While having a strong background in art or design is beneficial, it’s not mandatory. At Ikigai College, we welcome students from all academic backgrounds who have a passion for creativity and spatial design. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a professional seeking to upskill, our interior design courses are structured to accommodate learners at different stages of their careers.

2. How long does it take to complete an interior design course in Nairobi?
The duration of an interior design course in Nairobi varies depending on the level and structure of the program. At Ikigai College of Interior Design, our diploma programs typically take two years to complete for full-time students. We also offer flexible part-time and short-term options, allowing working professionals and career changers to study at their own pace. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive diploma or a short interior design course for beginners, we have tailored solutions to meet your schedule and learning goals.

3. Are online interior design courses available in Kenya?
Yes, online interior design courses are available in Kenya, and Ikigai College offers flexible learning options that include both online and blended formats. Our online interior design courses are designed for learners who need flexibility due to work, family, or distance. You will access expert-led video lessons, downloadable resources, virtual studio sessions, and personalized tutor support. These courses are ideal for beginners, enthusiasts, or professionals looking to deepen their design knowledge from anywhere in Kenya or abroad.

4. What career opportunities are available after completing an interior design course?
Graduates of interior design courses in Kenya have a wide range of career paths to explore. These include working as an interior designer for residential, commercial, or hospitality projects, becoming a freelance designer, project manager, furniture or lighting designer, or specializing in sustainable and eco-friendly interiors. At Ikigai College, we prepare students not just with design theory, but also with practical skills, business knowledge, and a professional portfolio—equipping you to work in top design firms or start your own interior design consultancy.

5. What makes Ikigai College the best interior design school in Kenya?
Ikigai College of Interior Design is widely recognized as the best interior design school in Kenya because of our strong commitment to design excellence, industry-relevant curriculum, and focus on real-world application. We offer cutting-edge learning environments, experienced mentors from the design industry, and access to state-of-the-art tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit. Our students also benefit from career mentorship, internships, and regular networking opportunities with professionals and companies in Nairobi’s vibrant design and construction sectors. Whether you want to learn interior design for professional growth or creative fulfillment, Ikigai College provides the highest quality training in the region.

Ready to Join the Best Interior Design College in Kenya?

Whether you’re searching for a short-term interior design course, a diploma, or a space that fosters creativity and career growth, Ikigai College of Interior Design has everything you need.

Applications for 2025 are now open.

Visit www.ikigaicollege.ac.ke to explore courses, view portfolios, and take the first step toward your dream career.

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Inside Kenya’s Best Interior Design College: Ikigai College