Online Interior Design graduate wins final year project competition

Has the project changed how you think about commercial interior design or the types of briefs you want to take on?

Absolutely. Through this project I discovered that designing for experience and wellbeing is something I am genuinely passionate about. Since graduating, I have worked across a range of sectors, but at the heart of every project is the same question: how does this space make people feel? I strive for inclusivity and aim to create environments where everyone feels valued and considered.

Getting to know the client has become a crucial part of my design process. Building that relationship helps me understand what they are really looking for and how I can tailor my skills to achieve the best outcome. It also helps me build a clearer picture of the end user, their needs, behaviours and expectations, which is always central to my approach.

How did you find Falmouth’s online Interior Design course?

It was definitely a rollercoaster. Studying from home is wonderful in many ways, but it should not be underestimated. Having studied at a conventional university before, I can confidently say that working largely on your own is far more challenging than being immersed in a physical learning environment. You do miss the spontaneous conversations that spark ideas and the hands-on experience a classroom offers. However, the skills it develops, such as self-management, discipline and motivation, are highly valued and have been invaluable while working for myself.

I was lucky enough to work part time during the degree with a very supportive company that allowed me to adjust my working days when deadlines approached, which I was incredibly grateful for. Having structure to my week, alongside regular check-ins, helped me stay accountable. The course’s flexibility was invaluable. Being able to pause a lecture to take notes or check in with tutors during a lunch break was something I did not have during my first time at university. It also really supported me as a student who was diagnosed with ADHD halfway through the course. Learning online gave me the freedom to explore different environments and routines, especially when life inevitably became busy.

You’re starting paid freelance work with Design Conformity in December. What does the role involve day to day, and how are you feeling about stepping into that space?

I have now been with Design Conformity for a few weeks and I am really enjoying it. They are a great company and strong advocates for sustainability in design, and I feel very lucky to be part of their team. I secured the role with Falmouth’s support as they judged our final year competition, which I won. They contacted me after graduation to say they were impressed by my project and wanted to offer me a position. It has been one of the most unexpected and rewarding outcomes of the degree.

At the moment, I am certifying products for their environmental impact from several of their key suppliers, which has been fascinating. I am also supporting some digital design and marketing work, as that is part of my background. Over time, the plan is for me to train as a consultant and eventually become a Design Conformity agent, which I am very excited about.

You already have freelance projects underway through your studio Surface & Soul. What kind of clients or briefs have you been taking on so far?

So far, all my work has been local, which has allowed me to build meaningful connections within my community. I recently completed a project with a retail client who wanted an ethereal yet modern café and shop for her new business, which was a real joy to work on. I also have several smaller projects in progress with a wellbeing practitioner, so my focus continues to be on creating spaces that support connection, calm and community.

I have also enjoyed writing for local magazines about interior trends and sustainable businesses. It has been rewarding to explore this side of design and add another strand to my practice. The writing modules on the course really helped me develop my voice and research skills, and I am grateful for that experience.

External links
Website: www.surfaceandsoul.co.uk
Instagram: @surfaceandsouluk
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bri-r-b99b29137/