Inside the Interior Designer

In simple terms, Interior Design is the designing of interior spaces. But perhaps it has another meaning, a more existential definition. Ami Gill did not start out as an Interior Designer, in fact she spent many years in business and finance and raising her two sons, but design it seems, has always been inside her. You could say, it has been part of the very fabric of her personal interior.

Ami is also a trained Early Years Practitioner and has worked with many children including some with special educational needs. What may be surprising to those not familiar with the world of Interior Design is that the traits of a caring empath are in fact the very thing that separates good designers from great designers. Interiors have a profound impact on how people feel, how they live, work and even how they think. All Interior Design is basically human centred, so a designer who can tune into the psychology of a project, is going to have an additional edge. It is therefore not at all a surprise to see that the work Ami is producing in her studies is at such a high standard.  

“I found myself naturally drawn to creating beautiful and functional spaces. Over time I became involved in decorating and renovating homes, working closely with contractors and architects on the design of a new build residential property.  These experiences gradually strengthened my interest in pursuing Interior Design more seriously.”

Inspiration is all around

And while the innate urge to design lives within, it is the world around us that is teeming with inspiration. Travel is something that Ami holds dear and with her design radar always on, she finds the world offers a generous bounty of ideas, inspiration and intrigue.

“A recent trip to Florence inspired my latest commercial hospitality project, where I incorporated artwork by Fornasetti.  The distinctive imagery and playful yet sophisticated aesthetic of the designs added a strong visual identity to the space and echoed the rich artistic culture that makes Florence so inspiring.”

When a person has an innate urge to do something creative, it tends to become a louder and more demanding voice over time. Ami wanted to pursue Interior Design, but it had to be in a “structured and professional way”. She was serious about learning more and really leaning into design but it’s not always an easy choice. People need the right time, the right position in life but mostly, people need some flexibility.

“The British Academy of Interior Design stood out because of its flexible learning approach and strong reputation. The course offered the opportunity to develop both creative and technical skills whilst balancing other commitments.  What really appealed to me was the practical nature of the programme and the ability to build a portfolio while studying.  It felt like the right step to transform my longstanding interest in interiors into a professional pathway.”

The bigger picture

And the coursework would prove to be both challenging and inspiring in equal measures. Ami says that learning the technical aspect of design can feel daunting at first, but it is also the most rewarding element to master. It’s a new way of looking and is both a departure from, and an extension to, the aesthetic gaze.

“I particularly enjoyed learning about the different design stages of the design development process, exploring materials and learning how to communicate ideas visually.  It was rewarding to see how a concept can evolve into a fully realised design.”

When Ami set out on the path to Interior Design studies, she wanted to enrich and enhance her already eager fascination with design and take it to a more professional level. But as she progressed though the course, she noticed her curiosities were piqued in new directions.

“I realised how much I enjoy working on a variety of projects, including residential and hospitality spaces.  Most recently, I worked on a commercial hospitality project, which I found particularly exciting as it combined creativity with practical design considerations.”

Never too late to do what you love

Many students who come through the Academy have arrived following a career in a different field or having raised a family. Culturally and socially, it is widely presumed that studies are pursued immediately following school, while young and early enough to embark on a new career. But the Academy is living proof that this is no longer the norm. Many students are taking a career pivot having made a career choice too young, or perhaps with different pressures or aims in their lives. Ami has been learning about Interior Design, but also inadvertently perhaps, about herself. “It has also shown me that creativity can continue to grow at any stage of life, especially when you are open to new experiences and ideas.”

The wisdom of having lived a life and the self-awareness to know what is right for you, these are the most valuable starter blocks for any life choices.

“One of the biggest things I have learned is that it is never too late to pursue something you are passionate about.  Returning to study after focusing on family and other responsibilities has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding.”

Ami is well and truly on the road to a fruitful and creative career in Interior Design. She has completed a canal-side pub project where she has renovated the space into apartments and has a growing interest in hospitality design.

As she builds her portfolio, she has also dived into the belly of the design world. Through the academy, Ami has now garnered a passionate interest in design experiences.

“The academy also introduced me to many important design shows and industry events, which I now attend regularly, from the London Design Week to The Surface Design Show. These experiences have been extremely valuable in helping me stay inspired and connected to the wider design community.”

The whole experience has made Ami feel more confident as a person, and as a professional Interior Designer. There is simply no stopping her now!