Nicole Stuart

I have a strong interest in hospitality design, with a particular passion for creating spaces that allow people to escape the pressures of everyday life. I am driven by the challenge of balancing atmosphere and functionality, ensuring that each design not only evokes a specific emotional response but also operates cohesively and efficiently. I am especially inspired by Mediterranean design, which consistently influences my work through its materiality, colour palettes, textures, and overall aesthetic language.

During my senior school years, I was home-educated, an experience that fostered independence, self-motivation, and adaptability. It enabled me to become a confident independent learner and develop strong communication skills. I learnt to tailor my communication style to suit different individuals and situations, creating environments where others feel comfortable and understood. This adaptability has strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively and engage with a diverse range of people.

I completed a Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Art and Design (3D Design), where I gained a broad understanding of disciplines including architecture, furniture design, and product design. Throughout the course, I developed strong technical and practical skills, including perspective drawing, detailed technical drafting, model making, and the safe use of workshop machinery such as band saws, pillar drills, and vacuum formers.

I am recently graduated with First Class Honours from an Interior Design BA (Hons) degree, where I have further developed both conceptual and technical expertise. My skills include proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, InDesign, and Photoshop, alongside hand sketching, perspective drawing, bespoke joinery technical drawings, and producing comprehensive technical packages to industry standards. I have particularly enjoyed exploring the design process in depth, researching the history of design, and studying the psychology of colour and spatial perception to understand how interiors influence human experience.

My academic projects have often addressed social issues, including homelessness, retail decline, and community disconnection. One notable concept involved repurposing decommissioned London buses into transportable shelters for rough sleepers, providing a safe space to sleep while offering access to support services and helplines. The primary aim of the design was to create a practical and dignified stepping stone toward stability.

In April 2023, I completed an 80-hour work placement with KAI Interiors. This experience gave me valuable insight into professional studio practice, collaborative workflows, and the realities of working within a design team. It strengthened my understanding of industry processes and enhanced my ability to contribute effectively in a professional environment.