Step behind the scenes with Sophie

From learning essential design programs to exploring her aspirations in the interior design and fashion industries, Sophie provides a personal look into her development and the lessons learned along the way.

In this Q&A session, we sit down with Sophie, an aspiring interior designer and current intern at Lewis Knox. Sophie shares her experiences, career aspirations, and insights gained during her time with the firm. From developing further technical skills to bridging the worlds of fashion and interiors, Sophie’s journey follows growth, ambition, and offers an authentic glimpse into the life of an emerging designer.

Here are Sophie’s thoughts on her journey:

 1. What do you hope to gain from your time at LK?

I am eager to enhance my technical skills in programs such as CAD, SketchUp and Photoshop, which I have always hoped to excel in. Lewis Knox has provided me with the opportunity to do so, allowing me to learn in an environment surrounded by a team of experts, ready to guide me and answer any questions along the way. I am also looking forward to my own personal and professional development.

2. What are your career aspirations? 

As far as career aspirations go, I would one day like to have my own company in interior design or the fashion industry, as I feel the fast-paced environment and working with people suites me well. I have had a glimpse of this working at Lewis Knox, and it can definitely be stressful owning a business!

3.  What inspired you to work in the interior design sector?

I’ve always loved looking through magazines for home, lifestyle and fashion and it really brings out my creativity and inspires my ideas. After working for an interior designer on my gap year, it gave me an insight into more of the soft furnishings side as that was my primary focus, as a pose to architectural but as I came towards my placement year, I knew I needed to develop my technical skills.

4. What has surprised you most whilst working with LK?

A misconception people have about being an interior designer/ interior architect is that we only really fluff cushions and have champagne on a Friday, but it’s so much more than that (although I’d never say no to champagne on a Friday!) You become a space planner, a project manager and someone who is passionate about bringing people’s visions to life, things I am already learning at LK.

5.  Do you have any advice for others wanting to develop a career in interior design?

Start off by gaining as much experience as you can. Even a short stint will give you valuable experience and could lead to a more permanent role, as was the case with my gap year position, or even open doors to further prospects. Don’t shy away from emailing and reaching out; you simply won’t know unless you try! The worst that could happen is rejection, which is part of the process, particularly when applying speculatively. However, don’t take it to heart, as persistence is often the key to success.

6. How are the worlds of interior design and fashion different?

They are both similar creatively, blending functionality and style to shape a personal aesthetic. Both rely on colour, texture, and form to express style, yet differ in their scope—fashion focuses on faster trends, while interior design creates harmonious, timeless environments that cater to spatial needs and mood.

7. What do you hope to achieve during the remainder of your placement year?

I would love to gain experience in fashion, as this is also something I’ve always wanted to immerse myself in. I’d love to live in London for a while and explore the fashion industry down there, whilst on placement. One of the other things I’m looking forward to the most is travelling – I have some travel plans in the pipeline carrying out some conservation work over in the Seychelles.