Architecture and interior design

This course is for you if you have a passion for all aspects of building design - from initial ideas through to construction.

Tell us a bit about the course.

It allows you to look at the buildability and functionality of a building you’re designing and how your choices impact these aspects. The course also has a strong focus on live briefs, to give you an understanding of how the process works in the real world.

How did Solent prepare you for your career?

This course is more than just the building design; it covers specification writing, project management, procurement methods as well as the technology of construction. It allowed me to show key skills in many areas required throughout the building process.

Favourite Solent memory?

The end of year show in my third year. This is an event to showcase our work from the final year to friends, family and industry professionals. Having my work looked at and praised by a complete stranger really made the work I had put in over the three years feel important.

What tips would you give to someone wanting a career in this area?

Take advantage of any learning opportunity; meet people in the industry and connect with them -this will open so many doors for your career.

Discover BA (Hons) Architectural Design and Technology 

This course is for you if you love a challenge, paired together with creativity.

How did university prepare you for your career?

University taught me the fundamentals I needed for the workplace and to put the skills I’d learnt into practice. I got to learn about each component that makes up a project from inception to completion, as well as how a business in this industry might operate. The course allowed me to grow in confidence, especially when presenting my ideas to an audience, something that has been crucial in my career progression and personal growth.

Tell us a little about your career story so far.

Before officially graduating, I was offered a six-week placement with Capita Symonds. At the end of the six weeks I was offered a full-time job as an accommodation strategy consultant, this meant moving permanently away from family and friends. Two years later I was approached about a position in London with Mace as a workplace designer, I did this role for two and half years and I feel that’s when it really clicked, I knew that being a workplace designer was what I should be doing in my career, I really enjoyed it. After commuting four hours minimum per day I decided to get a job back in Southampton which is where I am now, at Spaceway South Limited. I have been here a year and have just been promoted to design manager.

Tell us about what you are doing now and what it involves:

I work for a company who specialise in design and build for warehouse, mezzanine and office fit out projects. My role now as design manager is to take a brief from the client and turn it into both a visual concept that the client can understand and the contractor works from. I produce 2D AutoCAD plans, presentations, mood boards and 3D SketchUp models to convey the ideas and proposals. I will then work with our estimators and project managers along the way to ensure a project is delivered on time and within budget.

What tips would you give to someone wanting a career in your industry?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for advice. Asking questions and asking for advice outside of the set classes enabled me to learn so much more, and to be open to experiences where I could gain further knowledge.

Discover BA (Hons) Interior Design