Time for Innovation in Education for a Qualified Future in Interior Architecture
In today's interior architecture sector, the rapid evolution of customer expectations and the innovations provided by technology are driving growth, while the scarcity of skilled professionals in the field has become a significant problem. Universities, which graduate hundreds of students each year, are struggling to produce qualified human resources and are unable to meet the needs of the market. This situation negatively impacts the quality standards in the sector and complicates the job search process for graduates.
Interior architecture, as a unique field where technical knowledge and artistic skills are intertwined, requires graduates to be equipped not only with theoretical knowledge but also with practical skills. However, the education provided in universities often does not align with the dynamics of the market, making it difficult for graduates to adapt to the real business world. Studio work, material knowledge, and customer relationship management are among the key skills that students will need in their professional lives. Unfortunately, many universities provide inadequate training in these areas.
At this point, universities bear a significant responsibility. Education should not only be an academic process but also serve as a bridge aimed at producing qualified individuals for the market. It is essential to include industry experts with hands-on experience in educational programs, to provide more support for students in internships and practical applications, and to develop specialized training modules to help graduates integrate more quickly into industry workflows.
Training interior designers who can respond to the needs of the real sector, think creatively, focus on solutions, and master technical skills should be a shared goal of both universities and the industry. Universities should not only impart theoretical knowledge to students but also introduce them to industry realities and equip them with the infrastructure to succeed in the field.
In this context, updating the interior architecture education system will be a significant step towards ensuring that our students enter the sector more prepared. Restructuring interior architecture education with the aim of producing qualified graduates, rather than focusing solely on the number of graduates, will add value both to the sector and to the careers of the new generation of interior architects.
Best regards,
Interior Architect
Volkan ÖZMUK
