Work Placement at Covet Noir – Interior Design Student Experience

- By Georgia Holland,  BA (Hons) Interior Design student

 

I’ve always dreamed big when it comes to design, and from the beginning I’ve been drawn to spaces that combine innovation, luxury, and meticulous detail. My passion lies particularly in superyacht interiors, an arena where creativity meets precision and glamour is balanced with technical excellence. I thrive on that duality: bold conceptual thinking paired with the discipline and refinement that makes a design truly successful.

I chose to study Interior Design at KLC School of Design because their approach reflects that same balance. While the course is rooted in interiors, it leans strongly towards interior architecture, which has given me a much deeper technical understanding. This makes me feel like a more valuable designer — one who can interpret not just the aesthetics of a space but also its structure, proportions, and practical demands. On top of this, KLC’s exceptional industry links have opened doors to experiences with Daniel Hopwood, Studio VERO mentoring scheme, and most recently my internship at Covet Noir — each of which has pushed me to refine my expertise while fuelling my ambition.

The most exciting part of my role at Covet Noir was the regular site visits and client meetings. I had the opportunity to step inside extraordinary properties — from listed penthouses overlooking the Thames in Millbank to grand country estates in Ascot. Experiencing these spaces first-hand was inspiring; it allowed me to see how luxury design translates from concept to reality and gave me a true appreciation of the scale, detail, and craftsmanship involved.

Alongside this, over the four weeks, I supported the team with FF&E and material sourcing, reconciliations, schedules, and schemes, while being immersed in the daily rhythm of a leading luxury studio working 9–6 everyday absorbing and learning from an exceptionally talented team of designers.

The most inspiring aspects of my placement was observing how Covet Noir graphically presents ideas to clients with such elegance and clarity. From meticulously designed presentation proposals to the organisation of professional paperwork, every detail was intentional and communicated a clear narrative. Observing the synergy between design, sourcing, and client relations also gave me a deeper appreciation for how every element must be orchestrated to create a seamless, refined space. Experiencing this level of sophistication has profoundly influenced my approach to design, strengthening both my creative instincts and professional practice.

Being at KLC has provided me a comprehensive understanding of the interior design process, industry terminology, and the practical skills required to thrive in a professional environment.

From creating client presentations with compelling visuals to managing schedules, timesheets, and supplier knowledge. This strong foundation meant that during my placement at Covet Noir, I could step in seamlessly, engage with professional workflows, and focus on learning from every aspect of the experience. What was particularly inspiring was seeing Covet Noir’s distinctive personality and flair infused into these processes—transforming standard practices into something entirely unique. KLC has truly prepared me to approach the professional world with both knowledge and confidence, while leaving room to absorb and adapt to the artistry of each design studio and my own personal style.

What makes KLC truly exceptional is the calibre of its teaching staff and the direct connection to the industry.

Lecturers such as Sam Miller, Catherine Laredo, and Fiona Knight are not only highly accomplished, but also refreshingly direct, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping students develop their unique design voice. The opportunity to form individual, professional relationships with them allows you to be challenged and guided in a way that pushes you creatively while preparing you for the realities of the industry. KLC also offers unparalleled exposure to high-end guest lecturers and industry professionals—figures such as Guy Oliver, Jo Claver, and Katherine Pooley—which brings a wealth of insight and inspiration into the lecture room. Coupled with hands-on training in real-world processes like client presentations, supplier management, and project organisation, KLC equips you with both the creative confidence and practical know-how to excel in luxury interior design.

I am incredibly excited by the prospect of working in superyacht interiors or high-end residential design—fields that allow me to think big, whether in the UK or abroad in destinations such as Saint-Tropez, Italy, Monaco, or Dubai. I am particularly inspired by the work of studios like Winch Design and Carli Robinson in the yacht sector, as well as leading residential firms in London and Dubai. One day, I hope to grow Georgia Holland Interiors into a brand synonymous with bespoke, luxurious interiors. In the meantime, I am eager to continue pursuing internships and opportunities that challenge my creativity and allow me to learn from the very best in the industry.

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