Discover how NDA’s AI for Interior Design course helped Ilya stay creatively engaged, develop new skills from home, and reshape the way she approaches design.
What began as a natural creative instinct in the classroom has grown into a multi-disciplinary design career that continues to evolve. For Ilya Spencer, a background in brand strategy and graphic design laid the foundation, but her curiosity has since moved beyond two dimensions, leading her to explore how interior design can sit seamlessly alongside her wider creative practice.
Drawn to interiors that feel refined yet deeply liveable, and guided by a strong interest in sustainability, Ilya enrolled at the National Design Academy to build the knowledge and confidence needed to design with intention. Throughout the course, she uncovered new creative strengths, challenged her assumptions around colour and materials, and gained clarity on how interior design will shape the next chapter of her career.
Read on to discover what inspires Ilya, the moments that surprised her most during the course, and how she plans to thoughtfully integrate interior design into her future work.
What first sparked your passion for design?
My passion for design began when I realised I could draw in my first year of high school. Creativity has always felt natural to me, and that early discovery led me into a career as a brand strategist and designer. Over time, my interest has expanded beyond two-dimensional design, and I’m now exploring how interior design can be meaningfully integrated into my wider creative practice.
Who is your biggest design inspiration?
Shea McGee is my biggest design inspiration. I’m drawn to her ability to create spaces that feel elegant and elevated, yet warm, comfortable, and deeply livable. For a long time, I believed interior design had to feel cold, overly styled, or overly conceptual, which never resonated with me. Seeing her work was a turning point. Interiors can be both refined and emotionally grounding. That balance of class, comfort, and relevance is what I aim to bring to my own work, alongside a focus on planet-friendly solutions.
I am also inspired by Jean Stoffer Design. I am always struck by their meticulous attention to detail; every corner and centimetre of a project feels intentional! That quiet precision in their work creates spaces that just feel effortless and beautifully synchronized. That level of care is something I aim to embody in my own practice, where every stage is filled with thought and cohesion, while remaining timeless, warm and ultimately human-centred.
How would you describe your design style/taste in 3 words?
Accessible, classy, and planet-focused.
What made you apply to the National Design Academy?
A close friend recommended the National Design Academy based on her positive experience. It felt approachable, flexible, and genuinely enjoyable, which made the idea of learning interior design feel exciting rather than intimidating.
What’s the most unexpected thing you have learned from the course?
I was surprised by how much I enjoy colour contrast and depth. I assumed I would lean heavily toward neutral palettes, but I discovered a real love for rich, deep tones, often expressed through pattern and layering.
What has been your favourite course module and why?
My favourite module was Unit 3: Exploring Surface Finishes in Interior Design. Learning about materials and finishes, especially sustainable options, was far more engaging than I expected. I now keep an entire reference book dedicated to materials, which will be an ongoing source of inspiration.
What’s your favourite project that you’ve worked on?
The final project stands out as my favourite. Bringing everything together within one brief, rather than across multiple units, helped me understand how I think, where my strengths lie, and what skills I want to continue developing.
What advice would you give to potential National Design Academy students?
I would advise potential students to overestimate how long projects will take. Finishing early gives you space to refine and strengthen your work. Also, learn to love research as design is constantly evolving, and continuous learning is essential!
Now/when you’ve just finished your course, what are you doing next?
I’m exploring further study opportunities, refining and maintaining the skills I’ve gained, and planning how to thoughtfully introduce interior design into my existing branding practice.
Thank you to Iyla for submitting her student spotlight! You can follow her social media by clicking the buttons below!
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