Introduction
Step into the world of emerging interior design talent as we proudly present the Final Major Projects of our graduating students. This curated collection celebrates months of research, innovation, and creative exploration, culminating in a diverse range of designs that push boundaries and reflect the future of interior spaces. Each project is the result of a unique vision, tackling real-world challenges with bold ideas, sustainable solutions, and meticulous attention to detail. Whether reimagining public environments, private residences, or commercial spaces, these final-year students have crafted immersive narratives that speak to both function and emotion.
Course Leaders: Heddus Davies & Aimee Ward
Please note: all work completed by our students as part of their studies is exempt from the University’s Welsh Language Standards Compliance Notice.
Camwch i mewn i fyd talent dylunio mewnol sy’n dod i’r amlwg wrth i ni gyflwyno Prosiectau Terfynol ein myfyrwyr fydd yn graddio eleni. Mae’r casgliad yma yn dathlu misoedd o ymchwil, arloesi ac archwilio creadigol, gan arwain at ystod amrywiol o ddyluniadau sy’n gwthio ffiniau ac yn adlewyrchu dyfodol gofodau mewnol. Mae pob prosiect yn ganlyniad gweledigaeth unigryw, gan fynd i’r afael â heriau byd go iawn gyda syniadau beiddgar, atebion cynaliadwy, a sylw arbennig i fanylion y dyluniad. P’un a yw’n ail-ddychmygu amgylcheddau cyhoeddus, cartrefi preifat, neu fannau masnachol, mae’r myfyrwyr blwyddyn olaf hyn wedi creu naratifau sy’n cysylltu â swyddogaeth ac emosiwn.
Arweinwyr y Cwrs: Heddus Davies ac Aimee Ward
Noder: mae’r holl waith wedi ei gwblhau gan ein myfyrwyr fel rhan o’u hastudiaethau wedi’i eithrio o Hysbysiad Cydymffurfio Safonau’r Gymraeg y Brifysgol.
Each exhibitor is identified by a distinct colour, mirrored in the backgrounds behind their images below and their page edge markers
Millie Wilkins
Mia Matthews
Lucy Greenwood
Sian Whistance
Joanne Beale
Saanvi Agarwal
Fabienne Chester
Paul Sendor
Jalal Khan
Millie Wilkins
THE SUN ROOM
Swindon is facing a mental health crisis, with self-harm admissions 80% higher than the national average. The Sun Room will provide a restorative, inclusive space offering workshops, mindfulness sessions, creative therapies, and mental health resources. Inspired by the ‘5 Ways of Well-being’ framework, and delivered in partnership with Lift Psychology Swindon and Swindon Mind, it will support positive mental health habits. As part of the railway village restoration project funded by Historic England, the Sun Room aims to improve community well-being, promote preventive care, foster connections, reduce crises, and raise awareness around mental health.
Scan here for socials and contact details!
MEET THE DESIGNER
Hi, I’m Millie, an interior design student at the University of South Wales. Originally from Shrivenham, a small village near Swindon, I’ve always been passionate about creativity and love pushing myself to think outside the box. My design approach focuses on creating meaningful spaces that enhance well-being, often incorporating nature for harmony and balance.
In 2019, I gained industry experience through work placements at A’Bear & Ball, an architecture firm, and Benchmark Designs Limited, a commercial interior design company. Working with A’Bear & Ball was especially inspiring, as I witnessed the design and execution of an extension to my own home in real time. These experiences solidified my passion for interior design and architecture.
I am proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, InDesign, Photoshop, and the Adobe Creative Suite, and I’m currently learning Unreal Engine 5. My major project, in collaboration with Historic England, focuses on the Engine House in Swindon, addressing a real issue in my area while preserving historical significance.
I’m eager to continue growing creatively and working on projects that positively impact people’s lives.
All visuals produced for the Final Major Project ‘The Sun Room’:
Mezzanine
Communal Zone
Cafe Bar
Paul Sendor
THE CUSTOM INN
The Custom House Inn project reimagines a historic 19th-century building in Cardiff as a cosy, nature-inspired retreat. By blending the building’s rich industrial character with warm, earthy interiors, the design creates a space where guests feel connected to nature while surrounded by timeless architecture.
Scan here for socials and contact details!
MEET THE DESIGNER
I’m Paul, a final-year interior design student with a passion for biophilic design, warm, natural interiors, and modern minimalism. I specialise in creating calming, well-balanced spaces, particularly within residential design. Through my studies and a project with IKEA, I have developed expertise in spatial planning, branding, and user-centred design.
With a strong background in graphic design, I bring a keen eye for aesthetics and detail to my work. I am proficient in Unreal Engine 5, Revit, Enscape, and Photoshop, enabling me to visualise and refine my designs with precision. My goal is to establish my own design company, crafting thoughtful, nature-inspired spaces that enhance well-being and comfort.
All visuals produced for the Final Major Project ‘The Custom Inn’:
COSY NATURAL WARM
Lucy Greenwood
MILL STREET MARKET
Mill Street Market will revitalise a long-abandoned site, transforming it into a vibrant community hub. It will offer spaces for locally run workshops and events, including yoga classes, art exhibitions, and pop-up shops for small businesses. An artisanal café run by local charities will also provide employment opportunities, particularly supporting people with neurodiverse needs. The café aims to foster a spirit of collaboration and creativity, helping to strengthen community ties and support local talent. Mill Street Market will become a centre of creativity, connection, and community pride.
MEET THE DESIGNER
Hi! My name is Lucy. I’m 22 and from Cheshire. I joined USW in 2021 and spent 9 months between 2023 and 2024 on placement with the wonderful team at Momentum Contract Furniture.
Living in Wales for four years has deepened my passion for rugby. I have tried to immerse myself into the Welsh culture while living here, having picked up a few words and phrases. One of the few numbers I know is Pump (five), having spent a lot of time on that platform at Cardiff Queen Street train station travelling to and from Llandaff for the first two years of my degree for the USW Rowing Club.
My passions lie within industry-leading design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and the Adobe Creative Suite. I am excited to apply my technical skills to create detailed floor plans, 3D renderings, and moodboards that bring my ideas to life. I am goal-orientated and always strive to exceed expectations, especially my own!
All visuals produced for the Final Major Project ‘Mill Street Market’:
Front of Cafe
Cafe Seating
Retail Space
Behind Retail Desk
Sian Whistance
THE MAG
The Hereford Museum and Art Gallery is a Grade II listed building with much Venetian Gothic architectural character, such as its quatrefoil window details. This has been taken into consideration with the proposed design being inspired by the naturalist Woolhope Club, Herefordshire’s rural character, and the architectural heritage. The city of Hereford is known for its creativity and so workshop spaces have been included within the design, creating a community destination for education, creativity and wellbeing.
Scan here for socials and contact details!
MEET THE DESIGNER
Hi! My name is Sian, and I am a positive individual with enthusiasm for all things creative and design. I am currently pursuing my passion for interior design, and, with the guidance of the University of South Wales course, I have come to love commercial design and getting to experiment with colours, materials, and textures.
I always love to be on the go and trying new things, whether that be starting my own dog-walking business, going to the gym, or playing in a netball fun league. But nothing beats going for a coffee and trying new cafes, not only for the food and drink but also the interiors!
I cannot wait to see what’s next...
All visuals produced for the Final Major Project ‘The MAG’:
Workshop Visual
Cafe Bar Visual
Flexible Workshop Yoga Space
Gallery Visual
Laptop Cafe Space
Joanne Beale
THE OLD WINE HOUSE
Once a bustling wine merchants in Treorchy, this renovated home is now a serene haven for a health-conscious family. The Old Wine House blends original features, like a double height roof space to the master suite and exposed timber A-frame, with modern wellness principles. Flooded with natural light and fresh air, the home uses non-toxic materials, energy-efficient systems, and includes a landscaped garden for connection with nature. Flexible, open-plan spaces encourage mindful living. It’s a space where history meets harmony - crafted to nurture body, mind, and family life.
MEET THE DESIGNER
Hello, I’m Joanne, a mature student from Newport. As a busy, single mum of two (plus one loveable cockapoo), I know firsthand the importance of creating environments that are both beautiful and practical. I have thoroughly enjoyed my studies at USW and have immersed myself fully in every project, from office, educational, and residential design, understanding the importance of Heritage Impact Statements, research and essay writing to 3D model making and learning new software. I am passionate about transforming spaces to bring fresh, functional, sustainable, and inspiring design to life. With a keen eye for detail and a love for creating harmonious interiors, I strive to blend aesthetics with practicality to craft spaces that truly reflect personalities and lifestyles. My design philosophy is rooted in timeless elegance and midimalism, and I am inspired by historic homes, classical architecture, nature, fashion, and inspiring Interior Designers such as Abigail Ahern, Nate Berkus, and Jeremiah Brent.
Prior to my studies, I ran my own small cleaning business, where I combined my amazing cleaning skills with helping to make clients homes relaxing and beautiful. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for my career within interior design.
All visuals produced for the Final Major Project ‘The Old Wine House’:
West Elevation
Ensuite
Living Room
Kitchen
Study
Fabienne Chester
THE MARKET HALL
The Market Hall is a Grade II listed building with a Victorian gothic style built in 1869 in Clevedon. The building was designed by local architect Hans Price and has many unique features, such as its temple like shape. Clevedon is a Victorian seaside town filled with independent shops, local artists and stunning architecture and interiors. This proposed design opens the hall back up to the public creating a social hub for food and entertainment. The space will be adaptable to allow for different events in the local area, such as the Sunday Market.
MEET THE DESIGNER
Hi, my name is Fabienne, I am a young aspiring interior designer in my 20s. I grew up in the seaside town of Clevedon surrounded by a very creative family, which has been a big part in the growth of my passion for interiors. I have been constantly surrounded by beautiful scenery and gorgeous design, from my parent’s house to the rural hills of southern France, I love to include these beautiful aspects of my life in my work.
Through my final year I have worked alongside a growing restorations and interior design company which has taught me an immense amount and I have been able to apply many of the skills I have learnt at university. I am excited to grow my career and knowledge by pocketing as much experience across all different aspects of design
All visuals produced for the Final Major Project ‘The Market Hall’:
Food Hall
Lounge Bar
Exploded Axo
Saanvi Agarwal
THE MARINE BUILDINGS
The Marine Buildings in Penarth is a notable landmark, reflecting the town’s historic charm and seaside character. Built in the late 19th century, the building was designed to accommodate both residential and commercial needs as Penarth grew as a popular coastal resort. Positioned close to the seafront, the building’s elegant structures capture the essence, with features that celebrate the town’s maritime heritage. Today, I bring back the actual usage of the building with modern features to show-off its history and be sustainable as well.
“Every space tells a story, and I am here to be its storyteller.”
Scan here for socials and contact details!
MEET THE DESIGNER
Hello! I am Saanvi, I am from West Bengal, India. I have always been fascinated by how a space can impact someone’s emotions and interactions. This passion of mine has led me to the world of interior design and here I am, as a 3rd year interior design student excited to enter into the working world and turn my designs into reality someday soon.
Since the 1st year of university, I have majorly worked on commercial design through different academic modules and assignments. Because of this, I am now quite confident and comfortable with commercial design. But I have always had a keen interest in residential and hospitality design as well, which is why in my final major project I choose to create a mixed-use space so that I can play with my strengths and also explore the side of design that interests me.
Some industry standard tools which I learned and used throughout my university years are AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign and some Microsoft tools like PowerPoint, Word and Excel. Finally, as I move towards my graduation, I am eager to apply my knowledge in real world projects, get to work hand in hand with professionals and keep on refining my craft and skills throughout my career.
All visuals produced for the Final Major Project ‘The Marine Buildings’:
SERENE STRUCTURED MODERN
Restaurant
Reception
Bathroom
Mia Matthews
THE BETHANY STUDIO
The Bethany, a historic chapel in Cardiff City Centre, was hidden for decades within the Howells Department Store. Following the store’s closure in the early 2020s, plans emerged to restore and transform the site into a vibrant community hub. The Bethany Studio aims to preserve its architectural heritage while introducing modern functionality and sustainable aesthetics. Designed as an open, accessible social space, it celebrates creativity and provides a central venue for cultural activities, reconnecting Cardiff residents and visitors with its rich history.
MEET THE DESIGNER
Hi, I’m Mia! I’m 21 years old and was born and raised in the vibrant city of Cardiff. I’m a friendly and creative individual with a deep passion for interior design and bringing my creative visions to life. Through my studies at the University of South Wales, I’ve developed a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of design principles and technical skills, enabling me to transform spaces into beautiful and functional environments.
In preparation for my third year, I gained valuable experience as a Junior Designer, working on live projects and learning from experienced designers, developing a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.
I’m passionate about well-being and sustainability in design, often using biophilic and minimalistic elements, as I believe well-designed spaces can greatly impact users’ physical and mental health. While I favour these aesthetics, I’m always eager to design with different styles to honour existing and new spaces.
Outside of design, I enjoy travelling, running, crocheting, reading, and spending time with loved ones, which all contribute to my well-rounded personality.
visuals produced for the Final Major Project ‘The Bethany Studio’:
Event Hall
Stalls & Event Space
Woodworking Workshop
Cafe Bar
Exhibition Space
Jalal Khan
CARDIFF ART HAVEN
The House of Fraser building was once one of the largest and most iconic department stores in Cardiff. Following its closure on 26 March 2023, the building is set to be redeveloped into a vibrant multifunctional space. The new development will feature a café, art gallery, workshop areas, a library, and an open venue space for special events and exhibitions. This transformation will not only breathe new life into a historic site but also offer a wide range of cultural, educational, and social benefits. It will create a dynamic hub where residents and tourists alike can learn about and explore Cardiff’s rich heritage. The inclusion of community-focused spaces will encourage local engagement, support emerging artists and entrepreneurs, and provide flexible areas for collaboration and innovation.
MEET
THE DESIGNER
Born in Rochdale and raised in Cardiff, my passion for interior design grew from an early love of art and design.
Over the past three years, I have developed key skills in spatial planning, material selection, and digital modeling, enhancing my ability to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. I am a friendly and approachable person who enjoys collaborating with others.
Outside of design, I love spending time in nature, being with friends and family, working on DIY projects, and staying active at the gym. My curiosity and creativity drive me to keep learning and improving in all aspects of life.
All visuals produced for the Final Major Project ‘Cardiff Art Haven’:
Library
Coffee Shop
Display Gallery
Booklet created by Millie Wilkins & Paul Sendor