Student experience: What it’s like studying interior design in a virtual studio

Gabby Diaz’s experience in Sydney Design School’s virtual studio shows how flexible, engaging design education can build confidence and turn inspiration into something real. Her story is a reminder that your path doesn’t have to be linear, it just has to start with the desire to create.

For many emerging Interior Designers, their path starts with a single spark, a moment of curiosity that pulls them into a world of form, function and creative problem solving. For Gabby, that spark arrived unexpectedly, steering her toward a career she hadn’t originally imagined for herself.

How did you discover your interest in interior design?

Interior design wasn’t always the plan for me. I actually started out studying personal training, but I found myself feeling bored and wasn’t inspired. Around the same time, my family bought land to build a house. I became really involved in the design conversations and process and realised how much I loved thinking about the spaces we live in. That was the moment I thought maybe this is what I’ll love doing.

What led you to Sydney Design School and virtual learning?

I started researching and came across Sydney Design School which really stood out. The work showcased by students felt real, creative and inspiring. I could picture myself learning there and becoming part of something exciting. I chose the virtual studio because we live about an hour from campus, and I didn’t want long travel times to take away from my energy and focus. Studying online gave me both flexibility and the ability to give 110% to the course.

What’s it really like to learn interior design in a live online class?

A lot of people assume online learning is boring or disconnected, but the virtual studio at SDS is the complete opposite. It’s extremely hands-on, engaging and honestly so much fun. The projects make you think deeply and push you creatively, in the best way. There’s something so rewarding about watching your ideas slowly transform into real, developed designs.

And the educators play a huge part in that. They make the entire process of Zoom sessions enjoyable while still keeping us on track. They gave us the time we needed to do our best work, while also guiding us through deadlines so we learn real industry expectations. They truly care about what you’re creating and constantly encourage you to grow. And even online, you form such close relationships, my class created a group chat where we shared ideas, feedback, encouragement, and celebrated each other’s projects. The support and collaboration made such a difference.

How did tackling a full‑scale hospitality project shape your confidence as an Interior Designer?

This has definitely been my favourite project. It challenged me the most emotionally and creatively. There were definitely some tears along the way, but that made the final result feel incredible. I never imagined I’d be designing something at that scale this early in my journey, especially using software like AutoCAD, SketchUp and Twinmotion to bring it to life. Finishing it was one of those surreal moments where you realise just how far you’ve come.

I’m extremely grateful for this journey and for the opportunities Sydney Design School has opened up for me.