Fourth-year Interior Design students from the Catholic University in Erbil took part in an immersive educational visit on October 14, 2025, exploring two leading industry destinations: Concept Interiors, a major wood and furniture manufacturing facility, and Arminas, a premier showroom specializing in porcelain tiles, washbasins, and modern sanitary accessories. The visit was organized by the Department of Architecture as part of the senior Interior Design curriculum. report

Supervised by Assistant Lecturer Hardi Wahab Ahmed and Architect & Research Assistant Jwan Kesow, the visit offered students a hands-on understanding of how materials, production techniques, and finishing processes shape the design and functionality of interior spaces.

Exploring Craftsmanship and Production at Concept Interiors

At Concept Interiors, students observed the full journey of furniture creation — from wood selection to cutting, joinery, assembly, and fine finishing. The tour demonstrated how technical precision and craftsmanship transform conceptual design ideas into durable, high-quality interior elements. Students also studied material behavior, surface treatments, and fabrication stages that influence aesthetics, longevity, and user experience.

Understanding Trends and Technical Details at Arminas Showroom

The second stop, Arminas, introduced students to contemporary bathroom design solutions. They explored a wide range of porcelain tiles, fixtures, and accessories, discussing current design trends, innovative materials, and the significance of texture, lighting, and composition in interior environments. This exposure helped students connect design concepts with real-world material applications and market availability.

Instructor Insights: Bridging Creativity and Practicality

“Interior design education must go beyond drawings and renderings,” said Assistant Lecturer Hardi Wahab.
“Students need to experience how materials behave, how they are fabricated, and how design choices influence user comfort and functionality.”

Architect and Research Assistant Jwan Kesow emphasized the value of industry exposure:
“Connecting students with real-world production and material sources enriches their design thinking. It helps them make informed choices that balance beauty, cost, and durability.”

Strengthening Design Literacy Through Real-World Engagement

Throughout the visit, students documented materials, analyzed production workflows, and engaged with factory experts to better understand the practical considerations behind design decisions. The experience highlighted the importance of technical literacy, material knowledge, and professional communication in shaping sophisticated, functional interior spaces.

As part of the fourth-year Interior Design course, this visit reinforces the department’s commitment to integrating theory with practice. By situating classroom concepts within real industrial environments, CUE continues to prepare students to become designers who not only envision compelling interiors — but also understand how to build them.

“Design is not complete until it meets reality — and reality starts in the factory.”