Aaliyah Oshodi at The United in Design Graduation

Embarking on a series of internships is a valuable experience for any aspiring interior designer. Throughout my time with United in Design, I had the opportunity to work with four renowned design firms/suppliers, each offering unique insights and hands-on learning. In this blog article, I will share my transformative journey, highlighting the valuable lessons and experiences gained during my internships at De Rosee Sa, Salvesen Graham, Kate Guinness Design, and The Rug Company.

Before United in Design

Graduating with a first-class degree in interior design in 2020 was a significant accomplishment, but unfortunately, it coincided with a challenging time in the job market. The global pandemic brought about unprecedented uncertainties, making it a particularly difficult period to enter the workforce. While unpaid internships had been a viable option in the past to gain valuable experience, the circumstances of the pandemic made it even more challenging to secure such opportunities. So for a year and a half I kept myself busy giving myself design briefs and keeping my skills sharp before I stumbled across United in Design, applied and was successful.

The need for diversity within interior design

The British Institute of Interior Designers (BIID) ‘Diversity In Interior Design’ (2020) Survey found that over 22% of respondents agreed with the statement ‘I feel my race/ethnicity has created barriers to progression in interior design’. The BIID's research highlights the need for increased representation and inclusivity. It is crucial to address this disparity in order to create a more inclusive and equitable field that reflects the diverse society we live in. By actively promoting diversity and providing equal opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds, the interior design industry can benefit from a wider range of perspectives, ideas, and innovations.

When I first started university it was apparent that the field of design, specifically interior design, is incredible white and lacking of much diversity. United in Design is a programme which I really believe in and the mission behind it is so important. Black and brown people should feel as if they belong and matter within the design field and need programmes like United in Design to amplify their voices and level the playing field.

Internship 1: De Rosee Sa (May - August)

My first placement was at De Rosee Sa from May 2022 to August 2022, I was exposed to a wealth of knowledge and invaluable experiences. As part of my journey with United in Design, this placement at De Rosee Sa marked the beginning of an exciting adventure. Throughout my time there, I had the privilege of working on a diverse range of residential interior design projects, allowing me to hone my skills and expand my design repertoire. Additionally, I had the opportunity to contribute to the designs for Decorex VIP Lounge in October 2022.

Working at De Rosee Sa was a truly unique experience, as it allowed me to be part of a studio that seamlessly blended interior design and architectural expertise. This dynamic environment provided me with a holistic perspective on the design process, and I quickly realized the value of integrating both disciplines. Collaborating with talented architects and interior designers at De Rosee Sa exposed me to a wealth of knowledge and a multidisciplinary approach that enriched my skill set.

Internship 2: Salvesen Graham (August- November)

My apprenticeship at Salvesen Graham was a fun experience. Being part of a company that prioritised attention to detail allowed me to witness firsthand the meticulous approach that goes into creating timeless designs. Every project at Salvesen Graham was approached with a keen eye for detail, ensuring that every aspect of the design was carefully considered and executed flawlessly.

I felt completely immersed in the design world, and Mary and Nicole encouraged me to visit suppliers and go to The Chelsea Harbour and Lots Road. I had a fantastic time working on a variety of residential interior design projects at various stages and sourcing accessories for upcoming installations.

I had the opportunity to assist on various design projects, spanning both residential and commercial sectors. As part of my role, I was responsible for sourcing materials, furniture, and accessories. I would often be in charge of scheduling, preparing and updating various schedules, such as paint, finish, and delivery schedules, as well as tear sheets, to keep projects organised and focused.

Internship 3: Kate Guinness Design (November - February 2023)

My apprenticeship at Kate Guinness Design was an incredibly positive experience. From the moment I joined the team, I was greeted with warmth and kindness, and I quickly formed a strong bond with my colleagues. The team at Kate Guinness Design was not only talented but also incredibly supportive, creating a collaborative and nurturing work environment. I felt encouraged to share ideas, ask questions, and contribute to the design process, which greatly enhanced my learning experience.

One of the highlights of my internship was the opportunity to strengthen my CAD skills. I previously had no Vectorworks skills before working at Kate Guinness and was given the opportunity in my downtime to empower myself to learn this key software. My experience at Kate Guinness Design has undoubtedly equipped me with the necessary skills and confidence to excel in my future career ( I loved it so much I ended up taking a permanent role at KGD!)

Internship 4: The Rug Company (February - May 2023)

The Rug Company was a interesting change from the other companies I worked at. I had the opportunity to work with a range of departments within the company, ranging from brand and creative to developing original rug artwork with the in-house studio. I gained hands-on experience in the behind-the-scenes process of creating captivating imagery for the brand. I was responsible for researching and scouting potential locations that aligned with the brand's aesthetic and vision. This involved conducting thorough research, visiting sites, and presenting my findings to the team. This internship at The Rug Company not only allowed me to contribute to the creative process but also provided me with a deeper understanding of the relationship between branding, creativity, and visual storytelling.

The opportunity to be involved in exciting events such as the Liberty X The Rug Company spring launch was truly rewarding. I had the privilege of contributing to the design and procurement process for the Harrods Concession stand and the Palma Boat Show.

Final Thoughts

My journey through four internships with De Rosee Sa, Salvesen Graham, Kate Guinness Design, and The Rug Company under the umbrella of United in Design has been an incredible opportunity for growth and exploration within the interior design industry. Each experience provided unique insights, hands-on learning, and exposure to different aspects of the design process. United in Design has been instrumental in shaping my career, and I am grateful for the invaluable experiences and skills gained through these internships.