FACULTY OF ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN AND FINE ARTS

GAU - Department of Interior Architecture was established in 1994 (under the name of Interior Design) as part of the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture and once the old faculty dissolved the program reestablished as Department of Interior Architecture and became part of the newly established Faculty of Architecture, Design and Fine Arts   in 2009; situated within the main campus of Girne American University. 

With a strong emphasis on cosmocentric design values and professional ethics, the Department of Interior Architecture program has been offering an education based on critical thinking, social responsibility and sustainable design approach. Educational principles of the program follow the general faculty as well as department principles which are based on the belief that the creative process in art and design relies on critical thinking and a broad body of knowledge for direction and inspiration.

The mission of the Department of Interior Architecture (English) is to educate creative, responsible, and innovative designers who possess the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to shape interior environments that enhance the quality of human life. The department is committed to providing a learner-centered education that integrates theory, research, and practice, enabling students to approach design challenges with critical awareness and cultural sensitivity.

Through a curriculum grounded in design excellence, technological competence, and sustainability, the department seeks to cultivate in its students a balance between artistic expression and functional, human-centered design solutions. It emphasizes the development of aesthetic judgment, analytical thinking, and problem-solving abilities that respond to social, environmental, and economic contexts.

Moreover, the department promotes ethical and social responsibility by encouraging students to consider the cultural and ecological implications of their design decisions. It strives to foster lifelong learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional integrity, preparing graduates to become leaders and innovators in the field of interior architecture both locally and globally.

The vision of the Department of Interior Architecture (English) is to become a leading academic unit recognized nationally and internationally for its excellence in interior architecture education, innovative research, and meaningful contributions to society. The department aspires to serve as a center of creativity, critical inquiry, and professional development, setting high standards in design education and advancing the discipline within both academic and professional contexts.

By fostering an environment that values innovation, diversity, and sustainability, the department aims to nurture a new generation of designers who can respond to the complex spatial, cultural, and environmental challenges of the 21st century. It envisions a dynamic educational model that integrates traditional design knowledge with emerging technologies and interdisciplinary collaboration, bridging the gap between academia, industry, and community needs.

Through continuous improvement, international partnerships, and socially responsible design practices, the department seeks to contribute to the sustainable transformation of the built environment and to be recognized as a hub of academic excellence, creativity, and cultural relevance in the field of interior architecture.

1. Creativity and Innovation: The department embraces creativity as the foundation of interior architecture education and practice. It encourages students and faculty to think critically, explore new ideas, and experiment with emerging design methods and technologies. Through studio-based learning and research-driven projects, the department fosters a culture of innovation that challenges conventional boundaries and promotes forward-thinking solutions for contemporary spatial challenges.

2. Sustainability: Committed to environmental stewardship, the department promotes sustainable design principles that prioritize resource efficiency, ecological balance, and human well-being. Students are encouraged to integrate sustainability into every stage of the design process— from material selection to energy performance and user comfort—ensuring that their work contributes to the long-term resilience of the built environment.

3. Cultural Sensitivity: Recognizing the importance of cultural diversity and identity, the department values design as a means of expressing and preserving cultural heritage. It promotes awareness and respect for the social, historical, and geographical contexts in which design takes place. Students are guided to create spaces that respond sensitively to local traditions and global influences, reflecting a deep appreciation for the cultural dimensions of interior architecture.

4. Ethical Responsibility: The department upholds the highest standards of academic integrity and professional ethics. Students and faculty are encouraged to conduct their work with honesty, fairness, and respect for others, acknowledging the designer’s responsibility toward users, clients, and the broader society. Ethical awareness is integrated into the curriculum to ensure that graduates act with accountability and social consciousness in their professional practice.

5. Collaboration and Community: The department believes in the power of collaboration and collective creativity. It fosters teamwork among students, faculty, and professionals while encouraging engagement with local and international communities. Through partnerships, community-based projects, and interdisciplinary initiatives, the department aims to strengthen the connection between academia and society, making design a tool for positive social transformation.

6. Lifelong Learning: Acknowledging that design is an evolving discipline, the department promotes a mindset of continuous learning and self-improvement. It encourages both students and faculty to remain open to new knowledge, technologies, and perspectives throughout their professional lives. This value supports adaptability and resilience in a rapidly changing global context, empowering graduates to remain relevant and innovative in their careers.

GOAL 1: To provide high-quality education that integrates design theory, technology, and practice.

The department aims to deliver a comprehensive education that bridges theoretical knowledge with hands-on design experience. By combining design principles, emerging technologies, and practical applications, the curriculum prepares students to approach complex spatial challenges with confidence and creativity. Continuous curriculum updates, studio-based learning, and technology-integrated coursework ensure that students develop a holistic understanding of the interior architecture discipline.

GOAL 2: To promote interdisciplinary learning and research across design-related fields.

Recognizing that interior architecture intersects with numerous disciplines—such as architecture, industrial design, environmental psychology, and urban design—the department encourages collaboration across academic and professional fields. Interdisciplinary projects, workshops, and joint research initiatives help students and faculty broaden their perspectives and develop comprehensive design solutions that respond to the diverse needs of contemporary society.

GOAL 3: To equip students with the analytical, creative, and technical skills necessary for professional success.

The department strives to cultivate well-rounded designers capable of critical analysis, conceptual thinking, and technical proficiency. Through structured coursework, studio practice, and exposure to real-world case studies, students develop strong design communication skills, digital competencies, and problem-solving abilities. This integrated skill set prepares graduates to enter the global design profession with competence, adaptability, and innovation.

GOAL 4: To contribute to academic research and design innovation in interior architecture.

As an academic unit, the department is committed to advancing knowledge in the field of interior architecture through research, experimentation, and scholarly dissemination. Faculty and students are encouraged to engage in research that explores design theories, materials, sustainability, and human-centered approaches. By fostering a research culture, the department aims to become a reference point for innovative and evidence-based design education.

GOAL 5: To strengthen partnerships with industry and the community for real-world learning opportunities.

The department seeks to build strong relationships with professional organizations, governmental bodies, and private sector partners. These collaborations provide students with opportunities for internships, workshops, and community-based projects, enhancing their practical experience and professional readiness. Through such partnerships, the department contributes to the social and cultural development of the community while maintaining a strong connection between academia and practice.

GOAL 6: To continuously enhance the quality assurance processes and academic standards within the department.

The department is dedicated to maintaining and improving academic excellence through systematic evaluation, feedback, and quality assurance mechanisms. Regular curriculum reviews, student assessments, and accreditation processes ensure that teaching and learning outcomes align with institutional, national, and international standards. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the department ensures that its programs remain relevant, competitive, and responsive to the evolving needs of the design profession.

The Department of Interior Architecture (English) operates under the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Fine Arts. It is administered by a Department Chair, supported by Administrative Staff. The department’s structure ensures the effective coordination of academic, research, and administrative functions.

The organizational scheme typically includes:

Head of Department

Academic Staff (Professors, Associate Professors, Assistant Professors, Lecturers)

Research Assistants and Technical Staff

Administrative Assistant

Regular departmental meetings, curriculum committees, and quality assurance reviews are conducted to ensure transparency and collaborative decision-making.

LO1-  Create comprehensive interior architectural designs within different scales.

LO2-  Generate effective communication through different media.

LO3-  Interpret the knowledge of histories and theories of Interior architecture.

LO4-  Relate to different methods and researches in the field of interior architecture.

LO5-  Design building technologies and structures in interior   architecture.

LO6-  Compile projects according to professional codes and principles.

LO7-  Combine environmental aspects and sustainability within the design process.

LO8-  Organize the space within the planning process.

1. Program Aims, Learning Outcomes, and Curriculum Coherence

The Department of Interior Architecture (English) has clearly defined program aims and learning outcomes that are aligned with national and international standards in interior architecture education. The curriculum demonstrates strong coherence between learning outcomes, course content, and assessment methods, particularly through studio-based courses that integrate design theory, technical knowledge, and spatial practice.

2. Teaching and Learning Processes

The department adopts a student-centered and practice-oriented educational approach, emphasizing active learning, studio experimentation, and project-based assessment. Design studios are supported by courses in materials, construction, lighting, ergonomics, and digital representation, enabling students to translate conceptual ideas into feasible interior design solutions.

3. Academic Staff Qualifications and Professional Engagement

Academic staff members possess appropriate academic qualifications and professional experience in interior architecture and related design disciplines. Faculty are actively engaged in professional practice, academic research, exhibitions, and conferences, which strengthens the connection between education, current industry practices, and scholarly development.

4. Sustainability, Ethics, and Human-Centered Design

A key strength of the department is its emphasis on human-centered, ethical, and sustainable interior design. Sustainability principles—such as material efficiency, environmental comfort, and adaptive reuse—are embedded in studio projects and theoretical courses, supporting YÖKAK criteria related to social responsibility, ethics, and environmental awareness.

5. Stakeholder Engagement and Professional Integration

The department maintains active engagement with professional bodies, industry representatives, and external stakeholders, including design offices and professional chambers. Guest lectures, workshops, juries, and collaborative activities enhance students’ professional readiness and awareness of sector expectations.