How I Changed Career to Become an Interior Designer

Changing Career: Becoming an Interior Designer

I can honestly say that changing career to become an interior designer was one of the best decisions I have ever made. At the time, it was a huge call to make but I trusted my instincts. I followed my dream and haven’t looked back since. I do hope my story gives some insight for those considering the leap!

Early Passions and Education

I have always loved to create and construct.  Looking back at my school subject selections, they allowed me to nurture this passion, whilst keeping my academic options open. Finishing A-levels in Art, Economics and Geography, however, presented my first real dilemma as to next steps. Should I study for an Art Foundation Course and take time to explore alternative and unknown career paths. Alternatively should I choose an academic degree at the University of Bristol, which would help ensure a more conventional career.  After much deliberation, I chose to read for a Bachelor of Science in Geography.

First Career in Corporate Communications

Following graduation, I spent four years in account management at The Brunswick Group and BMP DDB. The world of corporate communications gave me a fast paced insight to the real world of business, most notably the importance of client servicing, estimating and scheduling. I thoroughly enjoyed work, but desperately wanted to explore and fulfil my creative passions further.  After much assessment of the opportunities available, I decided to take a risk and change my career.

Making the Switch to Interior Design

I set my sights on a career in Interior Design and headed back to the classroom.  I enrolled to study at KLC School of Design. I immersed myself in an intensive year of study. The Diploma course was rigorous and wide-ranging, shaping the way I approach projects today. Covering everything from lighting design and the history of style to technical drawing and spatial planning. In additon there were inspirational lectures from leading industry experts.  There individual and group project work, as well as invaluable work experience with Todhunter Earle. I learnt so much from every element and from other students who each brought a wealth of knowledge.  

Gaining Experience in the Industry

After graduating with Honours, and with the support of KLC, I was lucky enough to find employment with Lifestyles Interiors, part of the exclusive Northacre Group. I hit the ground running and worked on a number of show apartments at Kings Chelsea, amongst other private projects.  I drew on everything detail I had learnt at KLC, as well as my previous practical business experience.  To consolidate my old and new skill sets was incredibly rewarding and I felt truly fulfilled, both professionally and emotionally. Having completed a number of prestigious projects with Lifestyles, I went onto work at Fox Linton Associates with Martin Hulbert in London and then Federica Palacios Design in Geneva.
 
I was incredibly privileged to work at these renowned interior studios and have worked on a number of high-end residential and commercial projects, which have included a town house in Cadogan Square, the Grand Park Hotel and ski chalets in Gstaad, a family house overlooking Lake Geneva, as well as global apartments in New York and Dubai.

Founding Camilla Bellord Interiors (now Studio Bellord)

Returning to live in the UK with my husband and our three young boys a few years ago was the catalyst to creating our own design studio. Camilla Bellord Interiors was established in 2016, a family run business with the aim of providing a complete interior design service to both private and professional clients.  With a harmonious blend of aesthetic and function always in mind, our ethos is to create timeless interiors, infused with an eclectic elegance. The business is now thriving with a portfolio of projects across the Cotswolds, the French Alpes and beyond. 

Life as an Interior Designer Today

Looking back over the last 23 years in the world of interiors, I am so pleased that I took a risk and changed my career.  Each project is totally unique, presenting new opportunities and challenges.  No day is ever quite the same! Some are spent on a building site sporting a hard hat and fluorescent vest whilst clambering up a ladder; others are spent preparing spatial concepts, sourcing exquisite materials from unique artisans, as well as the inevitable excel spreadsheets detailing schedules and estimates, all part of how full-service interior design works in practice.

Advice for Anyone Considering a Career in Interior Design

If you’re considering changing career to become an interior designer, my advice is simple, but worth taking seriously:

Trust your instincts. A career change rarely feels comfortable, but that sense of pull towards something more creative is often worth listening to.
Be prepared to retrain. A strong technical foundation is essential, and formal education provides structure, discipline and industry insight that will support you throughout your career.
Expect a steep learning curve. Interior design demands far more than aesthetic instinct, from technical knowledge and problem-solving to client management and commercial awareness.

While the transition may feel daunting, every skill gained in previous roles will strengthen your design practice, whether that’s business acumen, communication, organisation or strategic thinking.

Ultimately, you’ll know in your heart whether a change is right for you. And if it is, be brave enough to take that first step.

For other articles on interior inspiration and creating beautiful schemes you can read more here

For more background reading on what to consider when setting up an an interior design practise, here is another great resource to read.

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