Design Talks & Real World Application: Northumbria University students visit Durant Hall.
As part of our ongoing work with higher education institutions, Aptus recently delivered a design-led talk to Interior Design students at Northumbria University, focused on the transformation of Durant Hall.
The session walked students through the interior design process from early concept through to delivery. Rather than focusing on finished visuals, the emphasis was on decision-making: understanding constraints, anticipating challenges and responding to the realities of an existing, listed building.
Key topics included:
- assessing building fabric and services capacity
- integrating accessibility without compromising heritage
- managing acoustics and lighting in large-volume spaces
- coordinating with estates teams, consultants and delivery partners
For students, the talk offered insight into how interior design operates within a wider delivery team and how ideas evolve as projects move from concept to construction.
The session was particularly meaningful for Aptus’ Head of Interior Design, Joanna, who is a Northumbria alumna. Returning to the University to speak with current students brought a full-circle moment – sharing professional experience shaped by the same course.
The conversation was grounded in reality: what changes once surveys are complete, how constraints shape outcomes, and why early engagement is critical when working within historic buildings.
As one student reflected afterwards: “Really insightful – especially learning about the design plan and process within the industry.”
The second session which was a Furniture & Detailing Workshop formed part of their Interior Design Practice through Spatial Design module, challenging them to reimagine Durant Hall as student accommodation while retaining the character of this Grade II listed building.
Building on the earlier design session, the workshop focused on the practical realities of student accommodation – exploring bedroom layouts, furniture design, material choices and the detailing that shapes how spaces are used day to day.
Students were encouraged to move beyond concept, considering how early furniture and detailing decisions can influence usability, durability and long-term performance – particularly within the constraints of a heritage building like Durant Hall.
We also shared real project insight and manufacturing perspectives through our sister company Workwell Furniture, helping connect studio thinking with the realities of delivery.
We also shared real project insight and manufacturing perspectives through our sister company Workwell Furniture, helping connect studio thinking with the realities of delivery.
As one student reflected afterwards: “Really insightful – especially learning about the design plan and process within the industry.”
After the workshop, Our interior design team Joanna Routledge and Polly Dodsworth caught up with students to review their layouts, share feedback and practical advice on building regulations the real world.
“It was great to see students engaging with the detail and beginning to carry these ideas forward as they move into the next stage of their work,” said Joanna Routledge, Head of Interior Design.
A further visit to Durant Hall is planned, so that students can see the project mid-way through construction, and see these principles applied.
These sessions form part of Aptus’ wider commitment to supporting education through practical engagement, helping students understand not just what is designed, but how it is delivered.