Interior Designer
What were you doing before studying and why did you decide to study here?
I was raising my children, I knew I wanted to get back to work once they were at school full time but I wanted to do something creative rather than getting sucked back into the corporate world where I had already spent many years. I’ve always loved interiors, and thought that a career in the industry would give me greater flexibility around family commitments.
How do you think studying at KLC School of Design prepared you for what you do now?
Well, I have set up a practice with fellow KLC School of Design graduates, so in a very basic way, KLC School of Design provided me with the dream team to build a business with. From an academic perspective, the tools of the trade I learned during the course have equipped me to communicate my design ideas in ways I never thought I would be capable of.
Can you identify some of the highlights and challenges of your time with us?
The course is demanding, and staying focussed for 5 years was challenging, two of which were during lockdown. Highlights include learning ways to tap into creativity I didn’t even know I had and meeting some very special people that I thoroughly enjoyed studying with and a couple I have continued to work with.
How has your career evolved since graduating?
As a result of Awards I won at the end of the degree, I have been doing pro-bono work with an Architectural firm local to me, developing a Shelter for women. I have also had people approach us for a variety of different projects, from an Eco lodge development in North Carolina, to a New build Smart Home in Bristol that needed a complete rethink of the internal layout. It’s early days for our practice but I am encouraged, every time I attend industry events, by how welcoming and supportive everyone is.
What do you consider your biggest achievement to date?
Probably the industry awards I won for my course work and being written up in Dezeen.
Do you have any tips for recent graduates?
Stay in touch with your classmates. Stay interested and involved in the industry. Get to as many design events as you can.
