Postgraduate Diploma graduate in Interior Design, Wandile Ndlovu could contain her excitement as her day drew to her graduation at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation ceremony. The beautiful lass graduated at the Olive Convention Centre. Currently, Wandile works as an Interior Design Intern within the Real Estate Management Department at DUT, where she assists with design-related projects and spatial planning.
Wandile loves designing spaces that support wellbeing and improve the experiences of people who use them.
Speaking of her graduation ceremony, Wandile beamed with pride, saying: “Graduating with Cum Laude for my postgraduate qualification and also obtaining the Dean’s Merit Award, is a proud and emotional moment for me. It represents years of hard work, resilience, and dedication. As a young parent and student, balancing studies, personal responsibilities, and financial challenges was not always easy. This achievement shows that perseverance and determination can lead to meaningful outcomes.”
The proud, young academic achiever and mother did not let motherhood deter her during her studies, even using her personal pregnancy experience in 2020 as a special project focusing on public maternity centres, to interrupt and reimagine the healing spaces that reduce stress and enhance emotional wellbeing, for both expectant mothers, and clinic staff, instead.
The focused graduand who is also a 2025 Emma Smith nominee loves participating in research-related outcomes, even taking part in the Faculty of Arts and Design’s research conference. “These experiences have helped strengthen my practical and professional skills,” she added.
Sharing on her journey at DUT, Ngcobo describes it as being both challenging and rewarding.
“I studied Interior Design, where I developed strong skills in spatial planning, research, and design thinking. Throughout my studies, I became interested in how interior environments can influence emotional wellbeing, especially in healthcare spaces. DUT has helped me grow both academically and personally, and it has given me the opportunity to explore design as a tool to improve people’s everyday experiences,” she added jubilantly.
From a young age, Wandile has always had an artistic side and enjoyed drawing. When she had reached matric, she decided that she was interested in the construction and built environment.
At first, Ngcobo did not know that Interior Design was a course, but after doing some research she discovered it and decided to apply. “I applied for several courses, but I was accepted into Interior Design, which I believe was the right path for me. I really enjoy the field because it allows me to combine my artistic abilities with practical skills in the built environment. Through studying Interior Design, I have been able to grow creatively and professionally while still expressing my artistic side through design. I am truly grateful for the opportunity because it has helped me to develop both my passion and my skills,” she expressed.
She happily conversed about her project titled: Designing Restorative Environments: Enhancing Healing Through Interior Design in Durban’s Public Maternity Clinics.
She emphasised that this research explores how interior design can improve the experience of primipara mothers and healthcare staff in public maternity clinics in Durban. “The study was inspired by my personal experience of attending public clinics during my pregnancy in 2020. While these clinics are functional, many lack environments that support the emotional and psychological wellbeing of users,” she explained.
The research, Wandile highlighted, investigates how principles of healing architecture and patient-centred design can help create more supportive, calming, and welcoming spaces. “The focus is on reducing stress, improving comfort, and enhancing emotional wellbeing for both patients and healthcare staff. The findings suggest that elements such as natural lighting, fresh air, natural materials, warm colours, privacy, and comfortable waiting areas can significantly improve the overall healthcare experience and contribute to a more restorative environment,” she explained.
Wandile believes that design has the power to respond to real community needs. Through her research and design work, she aims to create spaces that are not only functional but also meaningful and supportive for the people who use them.
To read more on her project, go to: https://www.behance.net/gallery/238342985/Imbewu-Maternity-Centre
Balancing work and academic responsibilities was not easy for Ngcobo, and at times it was discouraging because it required her to put in an extra effort to keep up with her coursework and still achieve good marks. However, this experience taught her resilience, discipline, and determination.
“It showed me that even when something feels difficult, it is still possible to achieve your goals with perseverance. Completing my postgraduate studies is something I am very proud of, because it represents the hard work and commitment I put into overcoming those challenges,” she relayed.
Her immediate goal is to begin and to complete her master’s degree, and in the future possibly continue towards a PhD. “I believe further study will open more opportunities for me and allow me to grow both professionally and academically. At the same time, I would like to remain connected to the industry because practical experience is very important in the field of Interior Design,” she shared.
Her advice to first-year students who want to pursue the same career is to stay focused and be prepared to work hard. “There will be sleepless nights and moments where the pressure feels overwhelming, and at times you may even feel like giving up. However, those moments are part of the journey. Make sure you keep supportive people around you who can encourage you when things become difficult. Always remember to take care of yourself, enjoy the process, and believe in your ability to succeed,” she said.
Pictured: Wandile Ndlovu
Waheeda Peters
