Interior Designer
Katie studied our Full Time Diploma Interior Design course and graduated in 2008. After graduating she went on to work for Katherine Pooley on Walton street before setting up her own design studio, ‘The Olive Design Studio’, with her business partner Lucy Clark.
What were you doing before KLC and why did you decide to attend KLC?
Before KLC, I was working for the BBC on children's programmes. I was writing and directing scripts which was a lot of fun but couldn't see myself doing it long term. At the time I had a boyfriend whose mother was a very successful interior/garden designer. She was a massive influence on my career change and gave me the "push” that I needed to leave my job and enrol at KLC.
Can you identify some of the highlights of your time at KLC?
KLC was a lot of hard work and financial commitment but it was worth every penny! Everyone in my tutor class became like a “family”. I ended up making some great friends over the year, some of which are now my closest friends. One of the biggest highlights for me was learning how to sketch properly – something I was never very good at and never thought I could be!
How has your career evolved since KLC?
When I first went to KLC I thought I would do the course and then set up my own company straight away! I have to say working in the industry for a number of years prior to setting up my own company was the best route I could have taken. The experience I gained afterwards was invaluable.
Nothing beats experience gained whilst working for other people and it also gave me the chance to develop my own style. I learnt a great deal about the industry, ran my own projects and learnt very quickly how to deal with clients and contractors, as well as managing the financial side of projects. It is always good to learn what to do, and what not to do, from other people.
What are some of your recent projects?
At the moment, we have a number of projects both in London as well as in the South of England. Current projects include a 7000 sq foot property in Wimbledon, a residence in Cadogan Gardens, a two bed lateral apartment in Britten Street, a Grade II listed country house just outside Guildford, a 4 storey family home in Parson’s Green and a commercial space in Central London.
