Design Intuition
Meet Jane Mahood, a BA (Hons) Interior Design student with a deep passion for transforming spaces. Jane’s interest in interior design started when she moved into her first home, although she had always been aware of how design influences the way people experience a space. Her curiosity led her to enrol in the Professional Interior Design Diploma at the National Design Academy, where she thrived in the flexible, self-paced learning environment. This motivated her to continue her studies with a BA (Hons) in Interior Design. After graduating, Jane plans to pursue an MA in Interior Design and eventually open her own practice.
What first sparked your passion for design?
Moving into my first home truly ignited my passion for design. From a young age, I was always aware of the profound impact that beautiful spaces can have. Entering a well-designed room, I instinctively noticed how certain elements worked together—or didn’t. This intuitive sense compelled me to consider how spaces could be improved. Interestingly, my father encouraged me to pursue this profession when I was a school leaver, but it wasn’t seen as a conventional career choice at the time. My personal experiences and innate curiosity about spatial dynamics eventually drew me into the world of design.
Who is your biggest design inspiration?
My biggest design inspiration is Kit Kemp. I deeply admire her journey and how she has made a significant impact on the design world. Although our styles differ, her work and approach to design have always resonated with me. I had the privilege of sitting near the front at a design trade event where she spoke, and I was absolutely captivated. Meeting her one day would be a dream come true, and I’d probably be so thrilled that I’d want to give her a hug!
How would you describe your style in 3 words?
Three words that describe my design style would be contemporary, elegant, and colourful.
What made you apply to the National Design Academy?
I initially pursued the Interior Design Diploma at the National Design Academy and found it to be an incredibly rewarding experience. The flexibility to study at my own pace was particularly beneficial, allowing me to focus on my learning without the added pressure of comparing myself to other students, which can be quite daunting, especially as a mature student. This approach not only made the learning process enjoyable but also gave me the freedom to discover and develop my own unique style.
What is the most unexpected thing you have learned from the course?
The most unexpected thing I have learned from the course is the remarkable complexity involved in every aspect of the design process. I have thoroughly enjoyed expanding my knowledge and gaining a deeper appreciation for the intricate details that contribute to effective and aesthetically pleasing design.
What was your favourite course module and why?
My favourite course module was definitely Module 02: Space Planning. It was incredibly exciting and really pushed me to my limits. The challenges it presented were intense, but the sense of accomplishment and the rewarding end result made it all worthwhile. This module truly tested my skills and creativity, making it a memorable and impactful part of my learning experience. I use it as the foundation for all other modules.
What's your favourite project that you have worked on?
My favourite project is the upcoming Module 09: Hotel Design. This area of design is where I envision my future career, and I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to dive into this module. The prospect of working on hotel design projects excites me, and I am looking forward to the challenges and creative opportunities it will bring.
What advice would you give to potential National Design Academy students?
To potential National Design Academy students, especially those considering a career change later in life, I would say: It’s never too late to follow your dreams. However, it’s crucial to be proactive about upskilling yourself. Familiarizing yourself with tools like AutoCAD or SketchUp right from the start can be invaluable. Dive in with enthusiasm, stay committed to continuous learning, and enjoy the journey!
When you finish your course, what are you doing next?
Upon completing my course, I plan to establish my own design practice. Additionally, I am committed to furthering my education by continuing my studies at the National Design Academy, with the goal of advancing to a master’s degree. This next phase will enable me to expand my expertise and refine my skills, ultimately enhancing the services I offer in my practice.
