Student Spotlight: Samantha Fabian – Professional Interior Design

From Art to Interiors. A Creative Evolution Rooted in Nature 🌿

For Samantha Fabian, design has always been more than a skill – it’s a language of emotion, texture, and balance. What began with a love for painting and form evolved into a deep fascination with how interiors can shape the way people feel.

Now the founder of Fabian Interiors, Samantha blends her signature Botanical Deco Luxe style with a passion for timeless, nature-inspired spaces. Her journey is a celebration of artistic growth, balance, and the courage to follow a creative calling.

Read on to discover how Samantha’s passion for art evolved into a thriving design career and how NDA helped her bring her vision to life.

Samantha Fabian

What first sparked your passion for design? 

I have always believed that design is the greatest form of expression. My creative journey began at school, where I developed an early passion in painting, which led me to earn a Level 3 Diploma in General Art & Design, exploring how art, form, and emotion come together; a path that eventually drew me to interior design.

Who is your biggest design inspiration?

I found myself helping friends and family create spaces that felt more harmonious and intentional. The love and support I received grew into a desire to understand design professionally.

Studying interior design felt like a natural next step to transform something I love into something I can offer others, to not only transform their home, but to evoke joy through creativity.

How would you describe your design style/taste in 3 words? 

Botanical Deco Luxe

What made you apply to the National Design Academy?

I chose the National Design Academy because it offered the perfect blend of professional flexibility and academic depth.

As someone transitioning into interior design from full-time work, I needed a course that fit around my schedule while maintaining a strong industry reputation.

The NDA’s focus on real-world projects and its supportive learning structure made it the ideal choice.

What’s the most unexpected thing you have learned from the course? 

The lighting module exceeded my expectations. I hadn’t appreciated just how complex and technical lighting design could be, but it’s now one of the most captivating parts of the course for me. I’m incredibly grateful to have developed such a strong understanding of this important aspect of interior design.

What has been your favourite course module and why? 

My favourite module was Unit 8, because it ties together everything learned in the previous units and gives a true sense of what it’s like to manage a full project as an independent designer.

What’s your favourite project that you’ve worked on?  

My favourite actual project so far, has to be renovating my first home. It provides the opportunity to learn and explore new concepts in design, and the freedom to explore it on a personal level in your own time and space.

68ea0e551860f

What advice would you give to potential National Design Academy students? 

I would absolutely recommend the National Design Academy to anyone considering a career in interior design. The course structure, tutor support, and real-world focus make it an excellent foundation for building both confidence and professional skill. NDA also offer multiple resources and recommendations through the student portal, and free student trials and discounts with chosen partners in the industry.

1000030050

Now that you’ve just finished your course, what are you doing next?

I completed my course in early October and I’m now expanding my professional network as I grow Fabian Interiors — a brand dedicated to creating timeless, nature-inspired interiors.

I warmly invite potential partners to connect and explore how we can collaborate to craft timeless interiors and transform truly special spaces.

Start Your Interior Design Journey – Your Way!

Samantha chose to build on her creativity by studying the Diploma in Professional Interior Design. Whether you prefer learning online, joining our in-studio sessions, or fast-tracking your studies, we’ve got an option that best fits around your lifestyle.

Share this Blog

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recent Blogs

What is UK Government Funding?

UK students pay approximately 50% of the full course fee – the balance is funded by the UK Government’s Adult education budget (AEB).

The National Design Academy is the only design school to be able to offer this funding as our Diplomas are all fully accredited by AIM Qualifications.