Today we’re celebrating Lawrence, the Spring 2024 recipient of the KUSH Rugs stellar Rising Start Scholarship!
The Rising Star Scholarship recognizes designers in the Master of Interior Design Certification Program at Heritage School of Interior Design in Portland, Oregon. Kush Rugs founders Rebecca Lurie and Brian Robins both received academic scholarships that made it possible for them to pursue their passion and eventually start their incredible business. In turn, the Rising Star Scholarship is just one way they’re paying-it-forward and assisting the next generation of interior designers!
We asked Lawrence a few questions about his path to Interior Design and how his passion for design is fostered by his time at Heritage.
What inspired you to pursue a career in interior design?
I wanted to do something different than what people around me were doing. I wanted to have a career that I could be proud of and happy with my work. I used to watch a lot of HGTV with my mom and I think that pushed me to get into this field of work!
How has the Rising Star Scholarship helped you on your journey?
It has been a huge blessing and such an honor to receive the scholarship. I’m unable to work full time while going to school, and the Rising Star scholarship has helped me been able to focus on my studies and not stress over my schedule. I’m so grateful for the opportunity and I can’t wait to show everyone the designer I will become!
Can you share a favorite project or assignment you’ve worked on during your studies? What made it memorable for you?
My favorite project I’ve done is my portfolio #3 project for one of my classmates. It was a neutral tone and burnt orange-themed transitional organic boho style which was definitely out of my comfort zone! Because I was designing something outside of my usual style I was able to see design from a different perspective while still holding my values and some of my ideals.
What do you enjoy most about the design process?
Gathering different materials, going to showrooms, and the day-to-day interactions with all the amazing people in the design world!
Have you had any mentors or role models who have influenced your journey in interior design? If so, how?
I can’t say I’ve had any mentors or role models at least that guided me to the design space, but I’ve always had loving family and friends who support me and my decisions. Also one of my friends is a Heritage graduate! I saw her work while she was at Heritage and it had a big impact on my decision to start a career in design.
What are some challenges you’ve encountered as a student, and how have you overcome them?
Time management between school and work was extremely tough when I first started the program. Now that I’m in week 9 of the Fundamentals of Interior Design program I really think I’ve found what works best for me in terms of organizing my time!
How do you incorporate feedback from peers and instructors into your design work?
I love the people in this program with me! My classmates are truly some of the most creative, talented, and kindhearted people I have ever met. My instructor Lorri is always pushing me to want to do better not only in design but in life. I see the success that comes with hard work and dedication and it inspires me to do more. I really do feel blessed to have started this program when I did, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the feedback and advice I received!
What do you hope to achieve or learn during the remainder of your time at Heritage School of Interior Design?
I really want to keep the connections I’ve made from this class and collaborate on future client projects with my current peers, and I really want to get better at my drawing in perspectives and elevations.
As we share the remarkable journeys of our scholarship recipients, we are reminded of the diverse paths that students take, each filled with unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs.
Each term we look forward to ushering in a new class of Interior Designers and look forward to following their bright futures as they join our vibrant community of designers. Stay tuned for more stories of students who inspire us with their passion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to making a difference in the world!
Read More Inspiring HSID Stories Here!
Check out KUSH’s interview with Lawrence!
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