Hi everyone — Courtney here. My mom is traveling to New York this week, so I’m stepping in to write today’s post.
Some of you may recognize my name from occasional posts on The Inspired Room, such as my Gather contributions and a few guest posts. For the last few years I’ve also worked behind the scenes with Melissa and my sister on many projects, including our kitchen design. I’ve had a variety of design-related jobs in the past — from a design internship to a role at Restoration Hardware — and each taught me valuable lessons. The most exciting change, though, is my new full-time role with The Inspired Room. I’m thrilled to be part of the team, to learn from my mom, and to contribute regularly — including design-focused posts from time to time. I’m looking forward to getting to know readers better.
Last week we received a thoughtful email from a 19-year-old reader, Cally, who is wondering whether to study interior design. Since I graduated last spring with a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design from Seattle Pacific University, I replied to her and thought sharing that response here might help others considering a similar path. My advice reflects my own experience in design school, but much of it applies to starting any new creative career.
Q: I’ve been in a “life crisis” about what to do next and how to prepare for family life and steward my talents. Your posts about decor, home, and how they connect to people have reminded me of my childhood dream to become an interior decorator. Would you share important qualities an aspiring interior designer should recognize in themselves before committing to a design major?
A: Hi Cally — I finished a four-year interior design program last spring and loved the experience. Here are three things to consider as you decide whether to pursue interior design:
I always loved design, but during college I had moments of doubt. Some aspects of the industry felt overly materialistic or superficial, which worried me — I didn’t want my work to seem vain or trivial. Over time I realized what truly motivates me: creating homes that support and uplift the people who live in them. While I appreciate beautiful furniture and architecture, my real passion is making spaces feel welcoming and functional for families. Identifying the deeper reason you love design will give you clarity and confidence as you move forward. When your purpose is people-centered rather than just aesthetics, the career feels meaningful.
Majoring in interior design does not lock you into one specific career path. The degree prepares you for many possibilities — working in a design firm, specializing in residential or commercial work, teaching, retail, set design, styling, or even running a business that connects design with another passion. My mom began with decorating and later found blogging to be the best way to pursue her love for home. Be open to opportunities that emerge; your career may evolve in unexpected and rewarding ways.
Many students enroll because they enjoy home improvement shows, but design school is not like a one-day makeover episode. Expect long studio hours, detailed projects, and technical work like drafting and space planning. Your classes will demand commitment and attention to detail; you’ll spend time refining ideas and solving practical problems. At the same time, the work is deeply satisfying when it aligns with your passions. Be prepared to work hard, learn new skills, and enjoy the creative process — including the late nights in the drafting lab.
Thanks for the great question, Cally — you’ll do wonderfully! If you’d like a peek at projects and reflections from my time in school, I kept a personal blog during college that documents many class projects and studio work.
Photos in this post were taken during my time in college and from my internship with Maison Luxe, which later became the office space for Coco Kelley. They capture behind-the-scenes studio work and moments from classes and internships.
PS. We always appreciate support from readers. If you feel inclined to show your support for the blog in other ways, a simple vote in relevant awards can help. Thank you for reading and for being part of this community.
Do you have additional advice for Cally? Is there anything you wish you had known before starting school or taking on a new opportunity?