2 answers
Fara
Student
Lagos, Nigeria
3
Questions
Asked
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How is working in Interior design?
Art tips? Portfolio Building tips?
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2 answers
Christopher Adeniji
Architect | Entrepreneur | Technocrat
45
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Hi Fara,
Just checking in since you posted this a while back. I hope you’ve had time to reflect on your questions. I also saw Mauricio Chaves’ response, and I really encourage you to take note of everything he said — it was solid, practical advice that’s very relevant.
From my own experience, I have a working knowledge of both Interior Design and Interior Architecture, and I can say that the choice between them really comes down to how deeply you want to get into the structure of spaces. Since you're thinking about specializing in commercial and yacht interiors, Interior Architecture might give you more depth in space planning, construction, and detailing — which are critical in those fields. But a strong Interior Design degree that allows for technical electives or real-world projects can also prepare you very well.
Whichever path you choose, focus on programs that offer hands-on experience and allow room for specialization. Keep sketching, exploring materials, and building your portfolio — you’re clearly passionate and asking all the right questions.
Wishing you the best — let me know how it’s going!
Just checking in since you posted this a while back. I hope you’ve had time to reflect on your questions. I also saw Mauricio Chaves’ response, and I really encourage you to take note of everything he said — it was solid, practical advice that’s very relevant.
From my own experience, I have a working knowledge of both Interior Design and Interior Architecture, and I can say that the choice between them really comes down to how deeply you want to get into the structure of spaces. Since you're thinking about specializing in commercial and yacht interiors, Interior Architecture might give you more depth in space planning, construction, and detailing — which are critical in those fields. But a strong Interior Design degree that allows for technical electives or real-world projects can also prepare you very well.
Whichever path you choose, focus on programs that offer hands-on experience and allow room for specialization. Keep sketching, exploring materials, and building your portfolio — you’re clearly passionate and asking all the right questions.
Wishing you the best — let me know how it’s going!
Thank you so much for the advice! Considering the fact I want to have specialized practice, I'm leaning towards Interior architecture.
I would like to use this opportunity to ask for any available opportunities - as an intern - MacToher group. I believe gaining real world experience in a hands-on field would be crucial to solidifying my passion for the field as well as experience for the future.
Thank you again for your advice!
Fara
Hi Fara, I’m really glad the advice helped! Interior Architecture sounds like the right path for your goals.
I’ll keep you in mind for any openings at MacToher Group since hands-on experience will strengthen your journey. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn so we can stay in touch. Keep going strong!
Christopher Adeniji
Mauricio Chaves
Interior Designer
44
Answers
Doorn, Netherlands
Updated
Mauricio’s Answer
Dear Fara,
Thanks for your question—it's great to hear that you're thinking about interior design!
Working in this field is honestly a mix of creativity, problem-solving, and a lot of attention to detail. One of the best parts is that no two projects are ever the same. Sometimes you're helping someone bring their dream home to life, and other times you're finding smart solutions for small or tricky spaces. It can be challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see how your ideas can truly change the way people feel in a space.
As for art tips:
Keep practicing! Sketching helps you develop your eye and express your ideas more clearly. You don’t need to be perfect—just get comfortable with drawing what you see. Pay attention to proportions, light and shadow, and try drawing spaces around you from different angles. Photography is also a great tool to train your eye. Later on, you can explore digital tools like Canva, SketchUp, or even just PowerPoint to start building mood boards and layouts.
Portfolio tips:
Start small and be consistent. You can include sketches, photos of spaces you’ve styled or organized (even if it’s just your room), mood boards, color palettes—anything that shows your ideas and how you approach design. A good portfolio tells a story. Show how you think, not just the final image. If you’ve done school projects that involve planning or creativity, those can be great to include too!
The most important thing is to stay curious. Notice how spaces make you feel—why some rooms are calming and others energizing. That awareness will help shape your style over time.
You’re already taking a great step by asking questions and exploring your options. Keep going! If you ever want to share your work or have more questions, I’m happy to help.
May the force be with you!
Thanks for your question—it's great to hear that you're thinking about interior design!
Working in this field is honestly a mix of creativity, problem-solving, and a lot of attention to detail. One of the best parts is that no two projects are ever the same. Sometimes you're helping someone bring their dream home to life, and other times you're finding smart solutions for small or tricky spaces. It can be challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see how your ideas can truly change the way people feel in a space.
As for art tips:
Keep practicing! Sketching helps you develop your eye and express your ideas more clearly. You don’t need to be perfect—just get comfortable with drawing what you see. Pay attention to proportions, light and shadow, and try drawing spaces around you from different angles. Photography is also a great tool to train your eye. Later on, you can explore digital tools like Canva, SketchUp, or even just PowerPoint to start building mood boards and layouts.
Portfolio tips:
Start small and be consistent. You can include sketches, photos of spaces you’ve styled or organized (even if it’s just your room), mood boards, color palettes—anything that shows your ideas and how you approach design. A good portfolio tells a story. Show how you think, not just the final image. If you’ve done school projects that involve planning or creativity, those can be great to include too!
The most important thing is to stay curious. Notice how spaces make you feel—why some rooms are calming and others energizing. That awareness will help shape your style over time.
You’re already taking a great step by asking questions and exploring your options. Keep going! If you ever want to share your work or have more questions, I’m happy to help.
May the force be with you!
Thank You so much! You have no idea how helpful this is but I do want to ask about interior design and interior Architehcture , Although I am a bit perplexed about the differences I'm understand their main differences. But from someone who's experienced would you suggest I apply for an Interior design or interior architecture degree? (Plus I'm thinking of specializing in commercial and yacht interiors.)
Fara
That’s a great question – the main difference lies in the focus. Interior design deals with existing spaces, focusing on aesthetics: layout, furniture, colours, lighting, and creating a pleasant and functional atmosphere. Architecture is about designing and building from scratch, with more emphasis on structure, function, and technical aspects. It really depends on the direction you want to take in your career and where your passion lies. If you’re drawn to the visual and creative side of how a space looks and feels, interior design might suit you. If you’re more interested in how spaces are built and function as a whole, then architecture could be the right path.
Mauricio Chaves
Thank you so much!
Fara