At Heritage School of Interior Design, we’re proud to have instructors who bring not only deep industry expertise but also a genuine passion for teaching. Abigail West is one of those rare creatives whose career bridges both the real and the imagined. As a seasoned interior designer and accomplished set designer, Abigail’s work has shaped everything from beloved television shows to iconic theme park attractions. In the classroom, she brings the same creativity, warmth, and professionalism that have defined her career. In this interview, Abigail shares insights from her design journey, her approach to teaching, and what fuels her love for both design and education.

What inspired you to become both a designer and set designer?

Growing up in Los Angeles, the film industry is as much a part of life as sunshine and palm trees. With friends and family in the business, it felt natural that I’d be drawn into the world of storytelling through spaces. While earning my degree in Interior Architecture, I took a part-time job at Warner Brothers Studios to support my studies. One day, a friend brought me into the Art Department for Friends, and that’s where my set design adventure began.

I continued to pursue my first love of interior design while exploring set design on the side. Both paths fulfill different aspects of my designer heart, and I cherish them equally. Interior design gives me the sacred responsibility of shaping the tangible, everyday experiences of individuals, while set design allows me to venture into the imaginative—crafting entire worlds beyond reality. Together, they form a perfect balance between the real and the imagined, grounding me in both creativity and practicality.

How did your journey in design lead you to become an instructor at Heritage School of Interior Design

As an Art Director in film, teaching is woven into the fabric of the job. You’re constantly guiding your crew, mentoring new Art Assistants who are eager to learn the ropes. After working on over 100 productions, teaching became second nature—it’s incredibly fulfilling to watch others grow and succeed. When the opportunity to teach at Heritage arose, I jumped at the chance. It allowed me to share the knowledge and principles that shaped my career and be part of nurturing the next generation of designers as they embark on their own creative journeys.

What is your favorite aspect of teaching design to your students?

Watching students gain confidence in their newfound skills is like seeing them unlock a hidden talent. There’s nothing quite like that moment when everything clicks, and they realize they have the power to create something impactful. Passing on the wisdom and techniques I’ve gathered over the years—and seeing those ideas take root in someone else’s creative process—is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching.

How do you incorporate your experiences as a set designer into your teaching?

Time management is crucial. Set design is like interior design on fast-forward—intense, fast-paced, and with non-negotiable deadlines. The Heritage Masters Program mirrors this intensity, demanding focus and discipline in its accelerated format. My secret weapon, as many of my students know, is a five-minute sand timer. It’s a visual cue that keeps both me and my students on track. If I spend too long on one detail, I flip the timer, giving myself five minutes to wrap it up or move on and revisit it later. It’s a simple method, but it ensures the entire project keeps moving forward—and I’ve never missed a deadline.

What design projects have been the most memorable or impactful in your career?

The projects that engage both my interior designer brain and my set designer creativity are the ones I hold most dear. One standout was working with the Walt Disney Imagineers on Cinderella’s Castle for Disneyland Tokyo. It was a dream come true—a perfect blend of commercial design and imaginative play. The materials they create from scratch are nothing short of magical, with hidden details that make every surface come alive.

On the film side, I love working on historical pieces. Architectural preservation is a big passion of mine, and traveling to places like Pompeii and Stonehenge has deepened my understanding of structure and design. Westerns, in particular, hold a special place in my heart. They feel so familiar, yet stepping into one is like entering another world. I once even swapped out my apartment’s lighting for old-school hurricane lanterns. They created a beautiful glow—until I realized they weren’t the safest choice for late-night work sessions! So I wisely decided to keep the kerosene on set and the electricity at home.

How do you stay connected with your students, both current and former?

From day one, I tell my students that our journey doesn’t end with the class. Design is a lifelong skill, and I’m here to help them navigate their path—whether that means troubleshooting during other courses at Heritage or facing real-world challenges after graduation. Many of my former students stay in touch, and it’s been a joy to watch their careers unfold. Being part of that ongoing journey is something I truly treasure.

What do you believe sets Heritage School of Interior Design apart from other design schools?

HSID stands out because of the genuine care that infuses every part of the school. Our team has poured their hearts into creating an environment where each student is nurtured and supported. It’s not just about producing graduates—it’s about helping individuals grow into the designers they’re meant to be. That sense of community and personalized attention makes HSID truly unique.

How do you maintain balance between the demands of a creative career and your personal life?

What advice do you have for aspiring designers who want to follow in your footsteps?

My career path might look more like dance steps than a straight line. I’ve explored nearly every corner of the design field, and I’ve enjoyed it all. The common thread is that I’ve always said yes to design. So if you’re starting out, say yes. Don’t be afraid to take on something unfamiliar. Trust your design foundation, rely on research, and let curiosity guide you. You never know where it might lead.

What does it mean to you to be so dearly loved by your students and colleagues at Heritage?

The feeling is mutual. Heritage feels like a family—a place where we support one another and grow together. There’s a beautiful balance of structure and freedom that allows everyone to find their voice. Being part of this community is a gift I’m deeply grateful for.

Highlights from Abigail’s Career in Set Design

Abigail West’s body of work spans continents and genres. Whether she’s designing immersive theme park attractions or building intricate television sets, her work consistently stands out for its creativity, detail, and emotional impact. Below are just a few of the highlights from her extensive career:

• Cinderella’s Castle, Disneyland Tokyo – Design Consultant

• MTV VMA’s – Demi Lovato and DNCE / Rod Stewart Performances – Art Director

• The Biggest Loser, NBC – Art Director (Seasons 14 & 15)

• American Ninja Warrior – Assistant Art Director

• Assassin’s Creed Unity – “Make History” Trailer – Production Designer

• Rise of the Tomb Raider – E3 Trailer – Production Designer

• Design On A Dime, HGTV – Art Director (Seasons 30 & 31)

• Disneyland Hotel Presidential Lounge – Design Consultant

• Extreme Makeover: Wedding Edition, ABC – Art Department

• Tough Enough, WWE – Art Department

• Floraland II, Chengdu, China – Design Consultant

• Warner Bros Theme Parks, Abu Dhabi – Multiple restaurant and attraction designs

Abigail’s full list of projects speaks to the range and depth of her capabilities. Across each role, she brings an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful, immersive spaces that resonate with audiences.

Abigail’s career reflects creative range, technical precision, and a deep commitment to design. Her past work in set design shaped immersive worlds with imagination and detail, and today, she brings that same passion into the classroom. At Heritage School of Interior Design, we’re proud to have educators like Abigail, professionals who don’t just teach design, but live it with purpose. Her impact is felt not only in the knowledge she shares, but in the confidence and creativity she helps spark in the next generation of designers.

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