For HSID Denver student Katie Decker, interior design has been a thread woven throughout her life, from early classroom experiences to creative side projects and, ultimately, a return to formal education. In this student spotlight, Katie shares her journey back to design, what drew her to Heritage School of Interior Design Denver, and how the program is helping her align passion with purpose.
Can you share a bit about your background and the path that led you to Heritage School of Interior Design Denver?
Interior design started at a young age for me. I was fortunate to attend a high school that offered interior design classes, and I absolutely loved it, graduating with an Excellence in Interior Design award. From there, I went on to college and began their Interior Design program, but I ended up switching to a business degree, thinking design was more of a passion than a career.
After college, I became an event and wedding planner and eventually moved into sales, but design followed me everywhere. I stayed creative through side gigs, taking on small design projects and even working for a staging company. After about a decade, I realized the career I was in was not sustainable long term, and that is when I found out about Heritage.
What ultimately made you decide to pursue interior design as a career?
I have always felt called to create beauty and order in the world. While that calling has taken many forms throughout my life, interior design has been the most aligned with it. From a young age, it has been something I naturally gravitated toward and felt skilled in, while also deeply connecting to what I am passionate about.
I believe our environment has a powerful impact on our state of being, and I have personally experienced how meaningful thoughtful design can be for belonging, health, community, inspiration, and rest. It is my hope to create that kind of impact in the world for others.
Why did you choose Heritage School of Interior Design for your education?
After a lot of research, I found that HSID was the best fit for my needs and my stage of life. I did not have the capacity to pursue another four year degree, but I still wanted an education that would truly equip me for the industry. Heritage School of Interior Design Denver offered an accelerated timeframe along with the type of content and culture I was looking for.
The program is very focused and provides a wide range of transferable knowledge without unnecessary fluff. Classes are small, which creates a strong sense of camaraderie and allows for more one on one attention from instructors. And of course, it does not hurt that it is located in a great part of the city and close to the mountains.
What are your career goals after graduating from HSID?
My goal is to work in commercial design within the hospitality industry. I want to create unique and dynamic spaces that foster connection and community. I love the idea that my work would impact people from many different walks of life, all brushing shoulders within the same environment.
Where do you draw inspiration for your design work?
Nature always inspires me and helps recenter my mind so I can be fully creative. Most of my ideas also come from shared experiences such as traveling, hosting, and everyday life. I pay attention to what feels important in an experience or interaction and how design helped support or enhance that moment.
