Foundation in Interior Design -

Melissa Read

Interior Designer

What were you doing before KLC and why did you decide to study with the school?Prior to studying at KLC, I completed a BC Hons in Marketing and Advertising followed by two years working in the Marketing team of a large media agency in central London.

Interior Design has always been a part of my life and I decided to take a leap of faith and change my career path. I carried out extensive research into the most suitable course and concluded that KLC would be the best fit. What stood for me was the many designers I admire attending KLC, the in-depth nature of the course and, perhaps most importantly, it was validated by an external University.

Can you identify some of the highlights and challenges of your time studying with KLC? 
Studying is a challenge in itself but personally, my only regret is not studying Interior Design sooner! Throughout the three years of studies, I have had many highlights, one of which was working on a live brief for the Royal Hospital For Neuro-disability in Putney.

How has your career evolved since graduating? Tell us about your professional experiences and employment thus far 
During my last year at KLC, I completed two internships which allowed me to secure a Junior Interior Design position. After my graduation, I started in a small Interior Architecture studio in Notting Hill before progressing to a larger Interior Design studio in Chelsea. My last role was at Taylor Howes Designs before launching my own company Studio Burntwood.

What kind of projects have you been working on recently?
Excitingly I have a couple of projects in the pipeline, one of which is an apartment at the iconic Battersea Power Station. I cannot wait to share more of this project as it progresses.

What advice would you give anyone starting out in the industry?
From day one spend time expanding your supplier and trades list - having a go-to contact list of people that you trust and have seen their quality of work is absolutely essential.

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