Best Interior Design Schools in Europe
Last month, I walked into a tiny café in Stockholm that completely stopped me in my tracks. The way they’d used natural light, the clever storage solutions, even how the colors made you want to linger over your coffee, it was magic. That moment reminded me why I fell in love with interior design in the first place.
If you’re having those same “I wish I could create spaces like this” moments, you’re probably wondering where to start. After spending years in the European design world and helping countless students navigate their options, I can confidently say that Europe offers some of the most exceptional interior design education available anywhere.
Whether you’re drawn to the minimalist elegance of Scandinavian design, the timeless sophistication of Italian interiors, or the innovative approaches emerging from Germany’s design labs, European interior design schools offer unmatched diversity and quality. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about studying interior design in Europe, from top schools to practical details such as costs and career outcomes.
Why Choose Interior Design Schools in Europe?
Europe isn’t just a continent rich in architectural history and design heritage. It’s a living laboratory where centuries-old craftsmanship meets cutting-edge innovation. When you study interior design in Europe, you’re not just learning techniques, you’re absorbing design philosophy that has shaped how we think about living and working spaces.
The diversity here is remarkable. You could spend a semester exploring sustainable design practices in Sweden, dive into luxury residential design in Italy, or focus on commercial space innovation in the Netherlands. European interior design schools have consistently produced graduates who go on to shape global design trends, and there’s a reason for that.
Most European programs emphasize both creative expression and technical precision. You’ll learn to sketch by hand and master the latest 3D modeling software. You’ll study color theory alongside building codes. This balanced approach produces designers who can dream big and execute flawlessly.
Plus, studying in Europe means you’ll graduate with a truly international perspective. Your classmates will come from dozens of countries, bringing different cultural approaches to design. This exposure is invaluable in today’s global design market.
Top Interior Design Schools in Europe: The Complete List
Here’s something I learned the hard way: not all design schools are created equal. After visiting dozens of campuses, speaking with hundreds of students, and witnessing careers unfold, I’ve identified the programs that truly deliver. Let me share what I’ve discovered:
| School & Location | Program Types | What Makes It Special | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal College of Art, London, United Kingdom | MA Interior Design | Pushes creative boundaries, legendary reputation | €31,000All students |
| Politecnico di Milano Milan, Italy | Bachelor (Italian), Master (English) | Heart of design capital, industry connections | €3,900 EU€11,000 non-EU |
| IED School of Design Spain & Italy | Bachelor’s, Master’s | Multi-city experience, real client projects | €18,000-€22,000 |
| Konstfack Stockholm, Sweden | Master’s in Spatial Design | Sustainability focus, research-driven | €5,000-€12,000 |
| Manchester Metropolitan Manchester, United Kingdom | Bachelor’s, Master’s | Design thinking emphasis, entrepreneurship | €9,000-€16,000 |
| L’École de design Nantes, France | Diploma Master’s | Innovation lab approach | €8,000-€15,000 |
| MOME Budapest, Hungary | MA Designer-Maker | Hands-on craft meets digital | €6,000-€8,000 |
Royal College of Art (United Kingdom)
I remember my first visit to RCA’s Kensington campus. Students were literally cutting holes in walls to understand space differently. This place doesn’t mess around with safe projects.
The Royal College of Art pushes you beyond your comfort zone from day one. I’ve watched students arrive thinking they understand design, only to have their assumptions completely shattered (in the best possible way). Recent graduate projects I’ve seen include designing for refugees, spaces that respond to emotions, and furniture that adapts to climate change.
But here’s the reality check: RCA is brutally competitive. They accept maybe 20 students per year for Interior Design, and I’ve seen incredibly talented people get rejected. If you make it in, though, you’re looking at career doors that most designers never even know exist.
Politecnico di Milano (Italy)
Milan during Furniture Fair week is pure magic, and being a student at Politecnico means you’re right in the thick of it. I’ve watched students land internships just by chatting with designers at Salone del Mobile events.
What really gets me excited about this program is how they blend tradition with innovation. You’ll study in workshops where craftspeople have been perfecting techniques for generations, but you’ll also work with the latest 3D printing technologies.
One student I know designed a modular furniture system during her thesis that’s now being manufactured by a major Italian brand. That’s the kind of opportunity that comes from studying in the world’s design capital.
IED School of Design and Fashion (Spain and Italy)
IED offers something unique: programs in multiple European cities. You could start in Madrid and finish in Milan, or study in Barcelona while taking workshops in Rome. This multi-city approach gives students an incredibly broad perspective on European design.
Their interior design programs are highly practical, with students working on real client projects from their first year. The school has strong industry partnerships, particularly in hospitality and retail design. Many graduates go on to work for major hotel chains or luxury retail brands.
The teaching approach is hands-on and project-based. You won’t spend years studying theory before touching actual design problems. Instead, you’ll be creating, testing, and refining designs from day one.
Konstfack University of Arts, Crafts and Design (Sweden)
If you’re interested in sustainable design and innovative use of materials, Konstfack in Stockholm should be on your shortlist. Swedish design philosophy emphasizes functionality, sustainability, and human-centered approaches, and these values permeate every aspect of the program.
The school’s Spatial Design program goes beyond traditional interior design to explore how spaces shape human behavior and well-being. Students work with everything from traditional woodworking to cutting-edge digital fabrication techniques.
What’s particularly compelling about Konstfack is its research focus. Students don’t just learn to design beautiful spaces, they investigate how design decisions impact everything from productivity to mental health. This research-driven approach produces designers who can articulate the deeper value of their work.
Manchester Metropolitan University (United Kingdom)
MMU’s interior design program has been quietly building an impressive reputation. What sets them apart is their focus on design thinking and problem-solving methodology. Students learn to approach design challenges systematically, which serves them well in any career path they choose.
The program offers excellent flexibility, with options to specialize in residential, commercial, or exhibition design. The school’s connections to the UK design industry are strong, particularly in Manchester’s growing creative sector.
One standout feature is their emphasis on entrepreneurship. Many graduates go on to start their own design studios rather than joining established firms, and the program provides a solid foundation in business skills alongside design training.
Specialized Programs and Emerging Trends
European interior design schools are leading several important trends that are reshaping the field. Understanding these trends can help you choose a program that aligns with your career goals.
Sustainable and Biophilic Design
Climate change has fundamentally altered how we think about interior spaces. Forward-thinking schools now integrate sustainability into every aspect of their curriculum. This isn’t just about choosing eco-friendly materials anymore, it’s about designing spaces that actively contribute to environmental health.
Programs in Scandinavia, particularly in Sweden and Denmark, are pioneering biophilic design approaches that integrate natural elements into interior spaces. Students learn to design environments that improve air quality, reduce energy consumption, and enhance human connection to nature.
Technology Integration
The rise of smart homes and IoT devices is creating new possibilities for interior designers. Leading European programs are teaching students to design spaces that seamlessly integrate technology without sacrificing aesthetics or human comfort.
Schools in Germany and the Netherlands are particularly strong in this area, offering courses on everything from automated lighting systems to adaptive furniture that responds to user needs.
Cultural Sensitivity and Global Design
As the world becomes more connected, interior designers need to understand how cultural differences impact space usage and aesthetic preferences. European interior design schools, with their diverse student bodies, are ideal places to develop this cultural literacy.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Getting into top European interior design schools requires more than just artistic talent. Here’s what you need to know about the application process.
Application Requirements: Your Game Plan
I’ve watched too many talented students miss deadlines or submit weak portfolios. Here’s your roadmap to not making those mistakes:
Portfolio Requirements by School Type
| School Category | Portfolio Size | What They Want to See | Pro Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| UK Universities Royal College of Art, Manchester Metropolitan, University of Kent | 15-20 pieces | Process work documentation, Conceptual sketches, Final design presentations, Design thinking evidence | Show your thinking, not just pretty pictures. Include sketches, iterations, and problem-solving process. |
| Italian Design Schools Politecnico di Milano, IED, Domus Academy | 20-25 pieces | Technical drawing skills, Creative conceptual work, Cultural design awareness, Material understanding | Include some hand-drawn work. Italian schools value traditional craftsmanship alongside digital skills. |
| Scandinavian Programs Konstfack Sweden, Danish Design School, AHO Norway | 10-15 pieces | Sustainability focus, Research methodology, social impact consideration, Environmental awareness | Document your design decisions thoroughly. Show how sustainability and social responsibility inform your work. |
| German Technical Unis SRH University, Bauhaus-Universität, UdK Berlin | 15-20 pieces | Problem-solving approach Systematic methodology Technical precision Logical design process | Show how you work through challenges systematically. German schools value methodical, well-reasoned design approaches. |
Language Requirements Made Simple
| English Test | Score Needed | Reality Check |
|---|---|---|
| IIELTS Academic International English Language Testing System Widely Accepted | 6.5+ overall6.0+ in each section is usually required too | Most European schools’ gold standard. Book test dates early – they fill up quickly in major cities. Consider taking it twice if you’re close to the requirement. |
| TTOEFL iBT Test of English as a Foreign Language Widely Accepted | 90+ total Some schools accept 80+, check individually | American-style test but widely accepted in Europe. Good option if you’re stronger in academic English than conversational. Speaking section can be tricky for some students. |
| Cambridge EnglishC1 Advanced (CAE)Growing Acceptance | C1 Advanced Growing acceptance, especially in UK | Increasingly popular, especially for UK programs. More academic-focused than IELTS. Good choice if you prefer computer-based testing with immediate results. |
| Duolingo English Test Online English Proficiency Test Limited Acceptance | 120+Newer option, not accepted everywhere | Convenient and affordable but verify acceptance first! Great backup option. Takes only 1 hour and results in 48 hours, but it has limited recognition in Europe currently. |
Pro tip from personal experience: If your English score is slightly below requirements, contact admissions directly. Many schools will consider strong portfolios with slightly lower language scores.
Interview Process
Many top schools conduct interviews as part of their admission process. These might be in-person, video calls, or portfolio reviews. Prepare to discuss your creative influences, career goals, and why you’re interested in that particular program.
Be ready to talk about current design trends and challenges facing the interior design industry. Schools want students who are engaged with the field beyond just personal interest.
Cost Breakdown: What You’ll Really Spend
Let’s talk numbers because I get asked about money constantly. I’ve helped students budget for everything from studio supplies to those inevitable late-night pizza runs during project weeks.
Tuition Reality Check
| School Category | Annual Tuition Range | Reality Check |
|---|---|---|
| EUU Public Universities (Politecnico di Milano, Konst Fack, Public French Schools) Best Value | €1,000-€4,000per year | Great value but competitive admission. Often require strong academic records and portfolios. Hidden costs include materials and living expenses in expensive cities. |
| PREU Private Schools (IED, NABA, Domus Academy, Design Schools) Premium Option | €15,000-€25,000per year | Higher cost, often more industry connections. Smaller class sizes, modern facilities, and stronger career services. Good for networking and practical experience. |
| UK Universities: (Royal College of Art, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Kent) Most Expensive | €20,000-€35,000per year | Expensive but strong English-language programs. Excellent global reputation and alumni networks. Post-study work opportunities available for international students. |
| Non-EU at EU Schools, International student fees at European public universities, Middle Ground | €7,000-€15,000per year | Middle ground option. More expensive than EU rates but still reasonable. Good compromise between cost and quality. Some countries offer lower rates for certain nationalities. |
Living Costs (Monthly Reality)
| City Tier & Examples | Monthly Budget | What This Gets You |
|---|---|---|
| €Budget-Friendly (Prague, Budapest, Porto, Krakow, Ljubljana) Most Affordable | €800-€1,200per month | Shared apartment with roommates, cooking at home most days, student lifestyle with occasional treats, public transport, free cultural activities |
| €€Mid-Range (Berlin, Barcelona, Stockholm, Vienna, Milan) Moderate Cost | €1,200-€1,600per month | Better housing options, eating out 2-3 times per week, regular cultural activities, gym membership, occasional weekend trips, comfortable student life |
| €Expensive London (Amsterdam, Zurich, Copenhagen, Paris) High Cost | €1,800-€2,500+per month | Decent housing (studio or good shared flat), normal social life with dining out, entertainment, higher transport costs, access to world-class cultural scene |
The Hidden Costs Nobody Warns You About
Here’s what I wish someone had told me when I was budgeting for design school:
Materials and Software: €500-€1,500 per year
- Portfolio materials, model-making supplies, printing costs
- Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp Pro, specialized software
- That expensive architecture paper you’ll definitely need
Study Trips and Exhibitions: €800-€2,000 per year
- Milan Design Week, Venice Biennale, and other essential events
- Many programs include these, but extra trips add up fast
Portfolio Development: €300-€800
- Professional photography of your work
- Portfolio books, websites, and presentation materials
- Interview travel costs
Scholarship and Funding Opportunities
Don’t let costs discourage you. Many European interior design schools offer scholarships based on merit, financial need, or specific criteria like sustainability focus or entrepreneurial potential.
EU programs like Erasmus+ provide funding for study abroad experiences within Europe. Many countries also offer scholarships specifically for international students in creative fields.
Research funding opportunities early and apply broadly. Even partial scholarships can make a significant difference in overall costs.
Career Outcomes: Where Graduates Actually End Up
I love staying in touch with former students, partly because their career paths often surprise me. Here’s what actually happens after graduation:
Starting Salaries by Country (First Job Reality)
| Country | Entry-Level Annual Salary | With 3-5 Years Experience | Senior Level (8+ years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom: Strong creative industry, London, premium Competitive Market | €23,000-€28,000gross annual | €35,000-€45,000gross annual | €50,000-€80,000+gross annual |
| Germany: Strong engineering approach, excellent benefits, High-Paying Market | €28,000-€35,000gross annual | €40,000-€55,000gross annual | €60,000-€90,000+gross annual |
| Italy Design heritage, luxury market focus, Developing Market | €18,000-€25,000gross annual | €28,000-€40,000gross annual | €45,000-€70,000+gross annual |
| Netherlands Innovation focus, excellent work-life balance, High-Paying Market | €30,000-€38,000gross annual | €45,000-€60,000gross annual | €65,000-€95,000+gross annual |
| Sweden Sustainability leader, excellent benefits, High-Paying Market | €32,000-€40,000gross annual | €45,000-€58,000gross annual | €60,000-€85,000+gross annual |
| France Luxury market, strong cultural sector Competitive Market | €25,000-€32,000gross annual | €38,000-€50,000gross annual | €55,000-€80,000+gross annual |
Note: These are gross salaries. Take-home pay varies significantly due to different tax systems.
Career Paths: Beyond Traditional Interior Design
The students who really thrive often end up in roles that didn’t exist 10 years ago:
Traditional Paths:
- Residential interior designer
- Commercial space designer
- Retail and hospitality designer
- Furniture and product designer
Emerging Opportunities:
- Experience designer for events/exhibitions
- Workplace wellness consultant
- Sustainable design specialist
- VR/AR space designer
- Design research and strategy
- Smart home integration specialist
Real Student Success Stories
Emma (RCA graduate, 2019): Started as a junior designer at a London firm, now leads sustainability initiatives for a major hotel chain. Salary jumped from €28,000 to €55,000 in four years.
Marco (Politecnico Milano, 2020): Launched his own studio during the pandemic, specializing in adaptive home workspaces. Now employs six people and works with tech companies across Europe.
Astrid (Konstfack, 2018): Became a design researcher for IKEA, studying how people actually use furniture. Never expected to love the research side, but it combines her design training with social impact.
Student Life Reality Check: What Nobody Tells You
Before you fall in love with those Instagram-perfect study abroad posts, let me share what student life actually looks like:
Housing Options Breakdown
| Housing Type | Monthly Cost Range | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Dorms | €300-€800 | Instant community, utilities included | Limited space, shared facilities |
| Shared Apartments | €400-€1,200 | More space, kitchen access | Roommate compatibility issues |
| Private Studios | €600-€2,000 | Privacy, control over space | Expensive, can be isolating |
| Homestays | €500-€900 | Cultural immersion, meals included | Less independence, house rules |
Cultural Adjustment Timeline
Month 1-2: Everything feels exciting and overwhelming
- Honeymoon period with a new city and culture
- Basic survival mode (finding grocery stores, learning transport)
- Portfolio stress as you adjust to new academic expectations
Months 3-6: Reality hits
- Homesickness peaks around month 4
- Academic workload intensifies
- Language barriers become frustrating
- Friend groups start forming
Month 7+: Finding your groove
- Confident navigating daily life
- Established study routines
- Cultural differences become interesting rather than confusing
- Planning where to travel during breaks
Study Habits That Actually Work
After watching hundreds of students succeed (and struggle), here are the habits that make the difference:
Time Management for Design Students:
- Block scheduling works better than hour-by-hour planning
- Always have a backup project when waiting for materials/feedback
- Schedule regular breaks during all-nighters (your creativity needs them)
- Use phone photography to document the process work constantly
Building Your Professional Network:
- Attend every visiting lecturer talk (even if tired)
- Follow up with industry professionals within 48 hours
- Join local design organizations and attend events
- Actually use LinkedIn (I know, I know, but it works)
Choosing the Right Program for You
With so many excellent options, how do you choose the right interior design school in Europe?
Consider Your Career Goals
Are you drawn to luxury residential design, sustainable commercial spaces, or cutting-edge experimental work? Different schools have different strengths. Research faculty portfolios and recent graduate projects to understand each program’s focus.
Think About Learning Style
Some programs are highly structured with clear progression through technical skills. Others are more open-ended, expecting students to define their own learning journey. Consider which approach suits your personality and educational background.
Evaluate Location Benefits
Each European city offers unique advantages. Milan provides unparalleled access to furniture and fashion design. Stockholm leads in sustainability and social design. London offers incredible diversity and global connections.
Think about language learning opportunities, climate preferences, and cultural interests alongside educational factors.
Research Faculty and Facilities
Look beyond program descriptions to understand who will be teaching you and what resources you’ll have access to. The best programs have faculty who are active in professional practice and research.
Check whether schools have fabrication facilities, material libraries, and partnerships with local design firms. These resources can significantly impact your educational experience.
Your Action Plan: Making This Happen
Okay, enough theory. Let’s get practical about turning this dream into reality. I’ve created this timeline based on watching successful students navigate the process:
18-Month Action Timeline
Timeline Priority Tasks: Why This Matters
18 months before the Research programs, start portfolio foundation. Good programs fill up fast, portfolios take time
15 months before taking language tests, request transcripts. Bureaucracy always takes longer than expected
12 months before submitting applications, prepare for interviews. Early applications often have better acceptance rates
9 months before: Receive decisions, choose a program, and start the visa process. Visa processing varies wildly by country
6 months before: Secure housing, arrange finances, and connect with future classmates. Good student housing goes quickly
3 months before: Book flights, sort health insurance, and plan arrival logistics. Last-minute flights are expensive
1 month before: Pack smart, download local apps, confirm everything twice. You’ll forget something, but make it something small.
Portfolio Building Strategy
This is where I see most students either shine or struggle. Your portfolio tells a story about how you think:
Foundation Projects (Start Now):
- Room redesign project (your own space works fine)
- Material exploration (photograph textures, test combinations)
- Sketching practice (buildings, furniture, spaces you love)
- Color and mood studies
Advanced Projects (6+ months out):
- Complete space design with technical drawings
- 3D modeling and visualization work
- Sustainable design challenge
- Cultural space analysis (museums, cafés, public spaces)
Funding Strategy Checklist
Apply for Everything:
- University-specific scholarships (often less competitive)
- Government scholarships from your home country
- EU programs like Erasmus+ (if eligible)
- Private foundation grants
- Employer sponsorship (if you’re working)
Creative Funding Ideas:
- Part-time remote work (if visa allows)
- Freelance design projects
- Teaching your native language
- Photography/social media work for local businesses
Your Next Steps Start Right Now
Don’t let this article become another bookmark you forget about. Pick one school from this list and spend 30 minutes on its website today. Not tomorrow, not next week, today.
Email a current student through LinkedIn. Most are happy to share their experience over a video call.
Start taking photos of spaces that inspire you. Not for Instagram, but for understanding what draws your eye and why.
Begin sketching again, even if you’re rusty. Your hand needs to remember how to translate ideas into visual form.
Most importantly, trust yourself. You wouldn’t be reading this if you didn’t have that spark of curiosity about creating beautiful, functional spaces. Europe’s interior design schools are waiting for students who bring passion, dedication, and fresh perspectives.
Your future self is going to love the courage you show today. And honestly? The design world needs what you have to offer.
Ready to take the leap? Start with one application. One portfolio project. One conversation with an advisor. The perfect space is out there waiting for you to design it, but first, you need to design the path to get there.
The studios of Milan, the innovation labs of Stockholm, the historic ateliers of Paris, they’re all waiting for you to show up and start creating.
What are you going to design first?
Have questions about specific programs or need help with your application strategy? The European design community is incredibly welcoming to newcomers who show genuine passion and commitment. Start your research today, and remember, every successful designer started exactly where you are right now.
