Interior Architecture: research and design

MIARD is a nationally accredited course with a focus on practice-based research and spatial strategies in the field of interior architecture. Research is multifaceted and self-directed in the program. Practice-based research at MIARD aims to develop the bodies of knowledge, contextual framework, resources, and methods of a student’s spatial practice, which is learned by doing research. The program identifies research in and through the arts, also known as “artistic research,” which is research by designers and artists that is produced in and through their work and collaborations. The research activity requires a strong sense of curiosity, analysis, and diligence to formulate positions, scrutinize assumptions and cultural systems. 

In the program, students identify their subject matter and methods to formulate a distinct area of study, design, and writing. They critically reflect and analyze issues within their field of practice and across a broader social-cultural, historical, and theoretical context. They make informed decisions about the impact of their work with the work of others and its circulation and reception across broader (professional) communities.

The curriculum is multidisciplinary and integrated. We explore a range of topical themes, methods, tools, and formats to educate students to think creatively about practice and modes of production in the context of architecture, interiors, design, and art amid a theoretical, cultural, and historical framework. Writing, reading, and dialogue are viewed as forms of research. Navigating media and technologies imaginatively as a way to materialize and circulate projects to broader audiences. These creative explorations influence and shape a self-directed methodology. The first year of the course establishes relevant research and design skills that prepare students to work on their Graduation Project in the second year. All classes are taught in English.

Curriculum modules include — Thematic Design Projects, Critical Strategies, Multiple Media, and Graduation Project.

The Graduation Project is a yearlong, self-directed exploration composed of a design project and thesis. By merging practice and theory in a multidisciplinary process, students develop a self-directed, critical viewpoint and construct a unique body of work that confronts existing spatial ideologies and expands notions of space. The thesis encompasses the theoretical framework of the design activity: the methods, contexts, questions, and critical and analytical approach of the student. The design project and thesis influence each other throughout the process, creating reciprocity between the two endeavors. During this time, students achieve a level of maturity and autonomy in their practice and professional network; in parallel, the work embodies its own identity with a distinct methodology that guides and illuminates a student’s voice and its broader socio-cultural impact. The final body of work is the accumulation of the two-year educational and professional trajectory at MIARD.

The final projects are exhibited publicly during our annual graduation exhibition, which is planned with the Piet Zwart Institute and Willem de Kooning Academy graduation events in Rotterdam.

The master's degree we offer:
Master of Arts, M.A

Master Interior Architecture: Research + Design, MIARD program is accredited and reviewed by the NVAO Nederlands-Vlaams Accreditatie Organisatie, the standard academic accreditation council for the Netherlands and the Flemish part of Belgium, and fully subsidized by the Dutch state.

The MIARD graduate embodies a broad definition of practice. They identify professionally in multiple ways, increasingly moving towards blended career paths. Our alumni have established design studios and artistic practices, and some hold design and research leadership positions at respected interior, architecture, and design studios. Others direct their specialization as researchers and cultural producers in arts and culture organizations — or have started media, film, and branding companies. We see graduates who now hold teaching positions or continue their research and professionalization in 3^rd cycle doctoral studies. Our alumni are an important part of our professional community and continue to contribute and enrich the program.

MIARD is recognized as a qualifying Dutch master program for the professional title of interior architect by Architecten Register.

With your degree, you will receive a supplement, a DS-label. With this English document, you can show the value of your degree abroad when applying for other study programmes or when applying for a job.

Visit the archive miard.pzwart.nl in the section menu/public/announcement for alumni news.