If you’re exploring how to elevate your design skills through an interior design online course, let me take you behind the scenes of one of the most thoughtfully created ones on the market, the Sophie Paterson Academy. Born from my personal vision and over 18 years of experience, this interior design online course is everything I wish that I had known starting out in the industry.
This course goes far beyond aesthetics. It offers a structured framework and in-depth knowledge designed to empower and inspire, nurturing your design talent and enabling you to create timeless, meaningful, and functional interiors.
It’s also about creating homes that nurture, empower, and inspire. I know how overwhelming it can feel when you’re starting out. This interior design online course is about giving people the confidence, structure, and tools to unleash their creativity, and bring their own style to life at the highest level.
To understand further on why I created the course, click here to watch my introduction video.
Recently, in the last couple of weeks I have been asked the following question :
What makes the Sophie Paterson Academy unique?
My Answer: It’s not just the content, it’s the people behind it. Meet the team who supported me in bringing the online course to fruition.
Anthony – Head of Architectural Design
Anthony has been with Sophie Paterson Interiors for over 11 years and is known for his calm presence, technical expertise, and unwavering dedication.
WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF ADVICE THAT YOU WOULD GIVE TO SOMEONE WANTING TO START OUT IN THE INTERIOR DESIGN INDUSTRY?
“Don’t get a design ego. A good designer listens. The best projects happen when you elevate what the client wants, not override it.”
When I began shaping the interior design online course, Anthony was the first one there to support me from a structural and digital standpoint.
He helped develop the technical back-end of the course website and assisted with workbook design and video editing, translating my vision into a platform that feels intuitive and beautifully crafted.
Brett – Head of FF&E
For over 11 years, Brett has been at the helm of the FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) department. This year, his favourite project has been the residence on Palace Street, a testament to his love of curating comfort with elegance.
DID YOU ALWAYS KNOW THAT YOU WANTED TO BE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
“I’ve always been drawn to design. While my siblings were flipping through toy catalogues, I was collecting furniture brochures. I’ve always been destined for interiors.”
Brett’s role in the interior design online course was a natural extension of what he does best: bringing beauty to the practical. He offered key input during filming sessions and reviewed the FF&E-focused sections of the workbooks.
CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE ONLINE INTERIOR DESIGN COURSE IN ONE WORD?
“Revolutionary. We’re very proud of it. A lot is in there. And I think you can take on the world once you have completed it.”
Seána – Senior Interior Designer
Seána has been working with SPI for three years and brings a global flair to the team, having worked in New York before landing in London. She’s currently supporting me in designing one of the residences at The Peninsular Hotel.
“I’m loving helping to design the children’s bathroom at the moment especially the fun monograming, we can’t wait to share this project with you all very soon.”
If she had to describe the online interior design course in one word? Impactful.
Mark – Interior Architectural Designer
Mark has been with SPI for three years. Whether he’s drawing floorplans, developing elevations, or collaborating on product launches, like the loom coffee table his day is always hands-on and ever-evolving.
WHY DO YOU LOVE BEING AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
“The variety is what I love, no two days are the same. One moment you’re sketching, the next you’re brainstorming a new collaboration with Sophie and the team.”
One of Mark’s most memorable projects was a Middle Eastern home inspired by English heritage style. The sheer scale and grandeur of the project tested and expanded his skills in every way.
For the online interior design course, Mark helped bring the course’s architectural content to life. From reviewing visuals to supporting the creation of technical diagrams, his contributions helped me translate complex design principles into digestible, student-friendly formats.
Sarah – Design Assistant
Sarah has been a valued part of the team for four years. Enthusiastic, meticulous, and endlessly driven, she has embraced every opportunity that’s come her way, including travelling the world with SPI and supporting some of their most celebrated projects.
WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU LIVE BY?
“I try never to say no. Even when something feels intimidating, I say yes, then throw myself into it, this way I always grow from the experience.”
Sarah played a meaningful role in compiling my “little black book” of trusted suppliers for the interior design online course. Her attention to detail and hands-on experience with these brands helped ensure the list reflects the same quality and integrity SPI is known for.
Gem – Video Producer & Editor
Gem has filmed and edited over 100 hours of content with me. Her strength lies in capturing the details that matter and shaping them into a clear, engaging narrative.
“No matter what kind of learner you are, the course is a joy to experience. It’s not just reading, it’s watching, interacting, and doing.”
Gem’s work on the interior design online course was fundamental to bringing my ideas to life in a way that felt warm, accessible, and cinematic.
Her careful editing ensures the pacing supports all learning styles, and that my voice and key messages that I want to convey are both literally and creatively clear.
If she had to sum up the course in one word, it would be: Comprehensive.
Even though the direction, creativity, and depth of knowledge behind the interior design online course are mine, bringing my vision to life was very much a collaborative effort. Every lesson, workbook, and video reflects my 18+ years in the luxury design industry, simply distilled into an accessible and inspiring format.
To gain deeper insight into my design philosophy and to see how I bring my signature style to life, I recommend watching this video where I share a tour of my dining room and reveal my house updates. It’s a perfect glimpse into the level of detail, care, and thoughtfulness that underpin both my projects and my teaching.
For more inspiration, explore our portfolio to see how I translate timeless design principles into distinctive, character-filled homes. For exclusive behind-the-scenes content, including project reveals, product collaborations, and more insights into our design process, subscribe to our YouTube channel.
And for daily inspiration, updates, and a closer look at life inside the studio, follow us on Instagram @sophiepatersoninteriors and Tik Tok @sophiepatersoninteriors
