Interior Design

The scope of interior designing in Kenya is tremendous – areas of employment include designing for corporate offices, architectural firms, hotels, freelance practice, furniture companies, and even in the development of furnishing and interior elements and construction firms. The main responsibility of an interior designer is to make any given space attractive while making maximum use of space and utility. Notably, the field of interior design is expected to take a hit in the recent years. While the prospects for the self-employed, and those looking to work with existing buildings and other facilities are limited, new constructions and rising demand in real estate are likely to make up for it. There are several career opportunities for those who have done courses in interior designing. A few job profiles include working as furniture designers, exhibition designers, interior architects, product designers, textile designers, and stylists.

Levels

interior design pinup

Basic Level - Artisans

At the basic level of Interior Design, students learn the foundations of creating functional and attractive spaces. They are introduced to color theory, furniture arrangement, lighting, space planning, drawing techniques, and basic computer-aided design. Learners also study materials, textures, and simple décor concepts while developing creativity and problem-solving skills. The course prepares students to understand how interior spaces can improve comfort, beauty, and usability in homes, offices, and commercial environments.
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Intermediate - Certificate

At the intermediate level of Interior Design, students build on basic skills by learning advanced space planning, furniture design, lighting concepts, 3D visualization, and computer-aided design software. They explore residential and commercial interior projects, materials specification, budgeting, and project presentation techniques. Students also develop creativity, technical drawing skills, and an understanding of design trends, sustainability, and client needs to prepare for professional interior design practice.
Arts and design students in studio

Advanced - Diploma

At this level, students focus on professional and specialized design skills for complex residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. They learn advanced 3D visualization, project management, construction detailing, sustainable design, branding, and client consultation. The training also covers portfolio development, entrepreneurship, leadership, and industry standards. Students work on real-world projects that prepare them for professional practice, consultancy, and managing large-scale interior design projects confidently and creatively.
interior design and architecture

 Requirements

Certificate course
we require a KCSE mean grade of D (plain) or D+.
For a Diploma
The minimum requirement is a KCSE C- (minus) or a related certificate qualification. 
Other Requirements
Students should also have creativity, good communication skills, drawing interest, and passion for design and space planning.

Mode of Delivery

  • In-person classes at IKIGAI training studios.
  • Online interactive sessions for remote learners.
  • Blended learning approach combining video tutorials, live practice, and group discussions

Program Goals

Develop creativity, technical skills, and professional knowledge needed to design functional and attractive interior spaces. The program aims to equip students with skills in space planning, color coordination, furniture design, lighting, and computer-aided design. It also prepares learners to understand client needs, apply sustainable design practices, manage projects professionally, and create safe, comfortable, and visually appealing environments for residential, commercial, and public spaces.

   Skills Conveyed

  • Space planning and interior layout skills
  • Creativity and design visualization
  • Computer-aided design (CAD) skills
  • Color coordination and material selection
  • Furniture and lighting design knowledge
  • Communication and client presentation skills
  • Project management and budgeting skills
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities

    Career Opportunities

  • Interior Designer
  • Space Planner
  • Furniture Designer
  • Lighting Designer
  • Exhibition and Set Designer
  • Residential Interior Consultant
  • Commercial Interior Designer
  • 3D Visualization Artist
  • Interior Design Project Manager
  • Décor Consultant
  • Kitchen and Bathroom Designer
  • Retail Store Designer
  • Sustainable Design Consultant
  • Design Entrepreneur or Studio Owner
  • CAD Technician in Interior Design

   Benefits

  • Develops creativity and artistic skills
  • Provides practical and technical design knowledge
  • Opens opportunities for self-employment and entrepreneurship
  • Prepares students for careers in residential and commercial design
  • Enhances problem-solving and space planning abilities
  • Builds communication and client management skills
  • Offers exposure to modern design software and technologies
  • Creates opportunities for networking within the design industry
  • Encourages innovation and sustainable design practices
  • Increases chances of employment in the growing construction and décor industry

Ready to Become an Interior Designer?

Enroll for the Next Interior Design Course Intake at Ikigai College

Start Your Interior Design Career Today

Join Ikigai College and gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in the interior design industry. Our admissions team is ready to help you choose the right course and answer your questions.

FAQs

What does an interior designer actually do?

An interior designer plans and develops indoor spaces to ensure they are practical, comfortable, safe, and visually appealing. Their work may involve space planning, selecting finishes and materials, coordinating colours, designing furniture layouts, and working with clients and other professionals.

What subjects are covered in an Interior Design course?

Interior Design courses typically cover areas such as design principles, technical drawing, space planning, colour theory, furniture and fixtures, materials and finishes, lighting, and computer-aided design. Students also gain practical experience applying these concepts to real design projects.

Can I study Interior Design without being good at drawing?

Yes. While drawing is an important part of communicating design ideas, students can improve their drawing skills through practice and training. Modern interior designers also use digital design and computer-aided design tools to develop and present their concepts.

What will I learn in the Interior Design Course at Ikigai College?

At Ikigai College, our Interior Design Course equips students with practical and creative skills needed in the design industry. You will learn space planning, color theory, furniture design, materials selection, lighting concepts, drafting, and the use of industry-standard design software. The course combines classroom learning with hands-on projects to help you build a professional portfolio. Click here to learn more.

What career opportunities are available after completing the Interior Design Course at Ikigai College?

Graduates of the Interior Design Course at Ikigai College can pursue careers as interior designers, space planners, design consultants, furniture designers, visual merchandisers, or project coordinators. Some graduates also start their own design businesses or work with architecture firms, construction companies, and real estate developers. The course is structured to prepare students for real-world opportunities in the growing design industry. To learn more about career opportunities, click here.

Do I need prior experience to join the Interior Design Course at Ikigai College?

No. The Interior Design Course at Ikigai College is designed for both beginners and aspiring professionals. Whether you are a recent school graduate, a working professional looking to switch careers, or someone passionate about design, our program provides the foundational and advanced skills needed to succeed in the interior design field. To read more on requirements, click here.

Where can I work as an Interior Designer?

Interior designers can work on residential homes, offices, hotels, restaurants, retail shops, schools, and other commercial spaces. They may find opportunities with interior design firms, construction companies, property developers, furniture businesses, or work independently as freelance designers.

What is the difference between Interior Design and Interior Decoration?

Interior design involves a broader process that can include space planning, functionality, materials, lighting, furniture layouts, and technical aspects of a space. Interior decoration focuses more on enhancing the appearance of an existing space through elements such as colours, fabrics, accessories, furniture, and décor.

What makes Interior Design training at Ikigai College a good choice?

Ikigai College of Interior Design provides students with an opportunity to develop practical design knowledge and creative skills relevant to the industry. Learners are exposed to key areas of interior design while developing the confidence and abilities needed to pursue professional opportunities or establish their own design ventures. To learn more, Click Here