Reigniting my love for architecture at Herts
Hello there!
Deciding to pursue a master’s degree was surprisingly easy for me! My undergraduate years… well, let’s just say they weren’t exactly what I dreamed of.
During my undergraduate degree at another university, I found myself gradually losing passion for the course I had once been so excited about. A mix of factors contributed to this - COVID-19, minimal support from my university, and the challenge of being far from family as an international student.
But then came my final year. Out of nowhere, a spark lit up. I suddenly felt this new wave of love for architecture. I’m not sure what triggered it, but I remember thinking, “I’m going to be the next Zaha Hadid or David Adjaye!” (Yes, I am quite the dreamer.)
After (finally!) graduating, I looked in the mirror and said, “Girl, it’s time for your redemption arc!” And that’s exactly what this master’s journey has been for me. Of course, redemption wasn’t the only reason. I didn’t feel quite ready to jump straight into practice - my undergrad didn’t exactly prep me for professional practice.
Plus, a master’s degree opened up broader opportunities both here in the UK and back home in Nigeria.
Now, I know my architecture enthusiasts are probably thinking: “Rahama, why not go for an MArch?”
And to that, I say—nuh-uh! One promise I made to myself was that I wasn’t going to follow the traditional architectural route laid out by RIBA (at least, not yet). That whole Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 journey felt a bit too rigid, and after everything I’d been through, I needed flexibility and freedom to explore what really made me excited.
So, I asked myself: “What else can I study that stays true to my passion for the built environment but still lets me explore my interests?” And voilà - Interior Architecture entered the chat!
Why Interior Architecture?
I’ve always been more fascinated by a building’s interior rather than its exterior. I love playing with colour (my fave!), lighting, textures, and materials. Designing interiors for museums, airports, galleries—you name it—has always been a dream.
Thus began the late-night portfolio upgrades (my laptop was sick of me!), countless university searches, and too many mugs of coffee. And all that hard work led me to the University of Hertfordshire.
Since joining, it’s been amazing! From course exhibitions to collaborative research projects with students from Italy, I’ve truly felt like I’ve found my place.
The lecturers are wonderful and incredibly supportive. They are well versed in their discipline and are always looking for different strategies to help students learn better. The creative arts community as a whole has been so warm and welcoming.
I’m currently knee-deep in my final project, working on a topic that’s been close to my heart since my undergraduate years. I’ve also discovered this bold new confidence and a mission to make changes in the world. (And yes—I mean that.)
So, should you go for a postgraduate degree?
If you’re unsure about your next step, take a step back and ask yourself: “What do I actually want to achieve?” Think about your long-term goals—career-wise, creatively, personally. If you feel burned out, take a break first. If you’re curious about something new, explore it!
Talk to current students, read up on different programs, and make sure you’re doing it for you.
Postgraduate study can be life-changing but also remember it's not the only path. Whether you’re chasing your own redemption arc or just looking to improve your prospects, remember—there’s no “right” timeline. Trust your gut, take the leap when it feels right to you, and don’t be afraid to carve your own path.
My name is Rahama Lawal, and I’m currently a postgraduate student studying Interior Architecture and Design at the University of Hertfordshire. I’m a Muslim from Nigeria with a passion for visual arts and the built environment.
You can always find me wandering through London’s many museums, art galleries and its historic architectural landmarks, with a bubble tea and sketchbook in hand!