Diploma Interior Design -

Lauren Martinsen

Interior Designer

What was your background before KLC?
I had a career in Fashion Management for 12 years before coming to KLC. I loved the buzz of this fast paced and creative environment and I feel that this has prepared me somewhat for this course.

I loved working with developing fabrics and trimmings and seeing a design through from an idea through to a finished product, however the fleetingness and frivolity of clothing never appealed to me. I cannot wait to amalgamate my new skills with the old ones in my new career in Interior Design.

Why did you decide to study Interior Design?
I love all aspects of design from Graphics to Fashion Design, Architecture and Interior Design and I am a true believer in the importance of design in every aspect of life. Interior Design especially has such a great impact on those who use the spaces, I feel it has given me the chance to express my creativity whilst really making a difference.

I have also always had a keen interest in how things work and with building and the built environment as a whole. It can be quite frustrating when things have been badly designed and I would therefore love the opportunity to get in there and improve spaces that don’t work, solving its issues and making it beautiful. I can’t wait to get started on my new career path, so exciting!

What did you think of the course?
I have enjoyed every moment of my life at KLC and feel quite sorry to leave. The tutors and staff have been welcoming and helpful as well as informative, caring and entertaining. I will definitely be popping by to say hi on a regular basis. Being an older student, I have found being in control of my own education an exhilarating experience and a welcome challenge.

What are your design interests/strengths?
I feel that I have an eye for graphics and proportion and I love detailing. My strengths at present lie in technical drawings and 3d modelling as well as joinery and FF&E, however, I would love to see how my new skills develop over the next few months or years.

What space best represents you?
I love the interior of Dirty Martini in Monument as well as The Merchant’s Tavern in Shoreditch. Both are darkly ambient, moody, slightly masculine interiors with great lighting and metal detailing.

Which are your favourite interiors?
Aesthetically I have always had a keen interest in restaurant, venue and bar design as well as arty retail outlets and other commercial and public environments. I love creative spaces that have been thoughtfully and cleverly designed. Give me anything with large steel windows and high ceilings, I love interesting spaces that let you explore, that can take you on an adventure not giving up all of their secrets in one go.

The artists’ studios in Talgarth Road Hammersmith have always fascinated me, would love to have a peek inside. For home, it has to be the calm serenity of Nordic interiors, natural materials and lots of light.

Who is your favourite designer?
I have never been one for favourites! I like what the studios Blacksheep, Martin Brudnizki and David Collins are doing. I also admire Ilse Crawford, Tom Dixon and Terence Conran, however, I can’t pick just one!

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