London’s interior design scene is a vibrant, competitive and continually evolving ecosystem. From high-end residential projects in Belgravia to cutting-edge commercial schemes in Shoreditch, the city offers a vast array of opportunities for aspiring designers. For many, the route into the profession begins with an internship — a period of hands-on learning that can transform classroom theory into practical skill. This blog explores how to turn an internship into a successful career as an interior designer in London, with practical steps, insider tips and a spotlight on programmes such as the Interior Design Internship offered by Oraanj Interiors.

Why start with an internship?

An internship is more than a line on a CV. In interior design, it’s a formative stage where you develop practical skills, build a network and begin to define your professional identity. Internships provide exposure to real projects, client communication, project management workflows and the technical tools that studios use day-to-day — from CAD and BIM software to moodboarding and material sourcing. In London, where competition is high and standards are exacting, internships act as a bridge between education and employability.

Key benefits of an interior design internship in London

Real project experience: You’ll assist on live projects, which can include site visits, client presentations and procurement.
Portfolio development: Practical work, sketches, moodboards and photos of finished spaces give you tangible evidence of skill.
Professional networks: London studios, contractors and suppliers are interconnected; an internship helps you meet potential mentors, future employers and collaborators.
Understanding of the market: You’ll learn about client expectations, budgeting in the capital and supply-chain realities specific to London.
Exposure to specialised roles: Large studios especially let interns explore specialisms such as lighting design, sustainable interiors or FF&E (furniture, fixtures & equipment).

Finding the right internship: what to look for

Not all internships are created equal. When searching for “Interior Design Internships London” consider these criteria:

Structure and mentorship: A well-structured programme gives clear learning outcomes, assigned mentors and opportunities for feedback.
Variety of tasks: Look for roles that balance administrative duties with creative and technical tasks.
Portfolio-building opportunities: Will you be allowed to contribute work that you can show later?
Professional development: Does the programme include training in software, best practices or client-facing skills?
Reputation and network: A studio with established clients and industry links can fast-track your career.
Ethical and practical considerations: Check whether internships are paid or unpaid, the expected hours and legal protections.

Oraanj Interiors’ internship programme: a model worth noting

One strong example of an organised internship in London is the Interior Design Internship Programme offered by. Their programme is designed for emerging designers seeking structured learning and practical responsibility. Key features that make it attractive include mentorship from experienced designers, involvement in real projects and guidance on portfolio development and client communication.

Prospective interns should review the programme details and assess how well it aligns with their career goals. For students and recent graduates, programmes like Oraanj’s offer a balance of guidance and hands-on experience — a combination that helps interns move from supportive roles into more autonomous design positions.

Maximising your internship: practical steps

To turn an internship into a long-term career, be proactive. Here are specific, actionable ways to make the most of the experience:

Arrive with a learning plan
Set clear, achievable goals before you start. For example: learn Revit basics, assist on two client presentations, or manage material sourcing for a small room. Share these goals with your mentor so they can help you achieve them.
Be technically curious
Familiarity with industry-standard software (SketchUp, Revit, AutoCAD, Illustrator, Photoshop) is a huge asset. Even if you’re not the studio’s software lead, demonstrate eagerness to learn. Offer to produce drawings, digital moodboards, or 3D visuals — these tasks often fall to interns and are great for your portfolio.
Master the fundamentals of specification and procurement
Understanding how to specify materials and manage orders is central to the role of many interior designers. Learn how to request samples, compare suppliers, and track delivery schedules. Knowledge of lead times and costs is especially important in London’s fast-moving market.
Practice effective communication
Interior design is as much about client relationship management as it is about aesthetics. Observe how senior designers present concepts, handle feedback and negotiate with contractors. Volunteer to draft emails, create presentation decks and update client briefs — these experiences build confidence.
Document everything for your portfolio
Keep a detailed record of your contributions: sketches, moodboards, drawing revisions, photos of site progress and final outcomes. With permission, compile these into a clear portfolio that highlights your role in each project. Show process, not just finished rooms — clients and employers value evidence of design thinking.
Network intentionally
London’s design industry is social. Attend studio events, supplier showrooms, trade fairs (like 100% Design or Decorex) and local networking meet-ups. Build relationships with tradespeople and showroom staff — they are invaluable sources of practical advice and work opportunities.
Ask for feedback and reviews
Request regular feedback sessions and end-of-placement reviews. These help you pinpoint weaknesses, show your commitment to growth and provide material for references.
Contribute beyond your role
Studios appreciate interns who take initiative. Suggest sustainable materials, research new suppliers, or propose ideas for social media content. Small contributions that add value can lead to extended placements or job offers.

Career pathways after an internship

An internship can lead to several career trajectories depending on your skills, interests and the opportunities you seize:

Junior Interior Designer / Designer
After one or two internships, many move into paid junior designer roles. Responsibilities typically grow to include client meetings, concept development and coordination of small projects.
Specialist roles
Some designers pursue specialisms such as lighting design, sustainable interiors, kitchen and bathroom design, or FF&E procurement. London’s diverse client base supports niche expertise.
Freelance designer or consultant
If you prefer autonomy, freelancing allows you to craft a niche and control client selection. London’s broad market offers freelance opportunities for those with strong portfolios and networks.
Studio leadership
With experience, you can progress to senior designer, project manager or design director roles. Leadership requires project management skills, business acumen and client relationship expertise.
Related careers
Skills developed during internships — such as CAD, client communication and procurement — transfer to roles in architecture practices, property developers, showrooms and retail visual merchandising.

Navigating the London job market: tips for success

Tailor your CV and portfolio to London clients: emphasise projects with urban, contemporary or period-specific expertise (Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian). Show understanding of planning constraints and listed building considerations if relevant.
Keep learning: enrol in short courses for Revit, lighting design or sustainability certifications (e.g. BREEAM, WELL) to stand out.
Seek varied experience: work across residential, commercial and hospitality projects to broaden your appeal.
Consider part-time paid roles in showrooms or with suppliers: these can provide income and deepen knowledge of materials and finishes.
Stay flexible geographically: central London is expensive but valuable for networking; outer boroughs often host fast-paced projects with different client expectations.

Dealing with the challenges

The path from intern to designer is rewarding but not without obstacles:

Competition: Many aspiring designers target London. Differentiate yourself through a strong, process-driven portfolio and niche expertise.
Cost of living: London can be expensive. Look for paid internships, or supplement income with part-time roles in showrooms, retail or freelance projects.
Unpaid placements: While common, unpaid internships are increasingly scrutinised. Prioritise opportunities that pay or provide clear, structured learning and strong references.
Burnout risk: High workloads can be intense. Manage time, set boundaries and prioritise well-being.

Success stories and proof points

Many established designers in London started as interns who leveraged early studio roles into full careers. The studios that offer structured internship programmes, such as the one at Oraanj Interiors, often have alumni who progress into permanent positions or successful freelance practices. These programmes demonstrate that a clear training pathway, mentorship and exposure to real projects lead to faster professional development.

Practical checklist: preparing for an internship in London

Update your CV and tailor a one-page portfolio with 6–10 strong pieces.
Learn basic software used in interiors (SketchUp, AutoCAD, Photoshop).
Prepare a short personal statement about your design interests and goals.
Research studios and programmes (search for “Interior Design Internships London” and review offerings like Oraanj Interiors’ programme).
Arrange references from tutors or previous employers.
Budget for London living costs and plan travel/commute logistics.
Dress professionally for interviews and site visits — professional presentation matters.

Conclusion

An internship can be the decisive first step from student to practising interior designer in London. By choosing structured programmes, such as the Interior Design Internship Programme at Oraanj Interiors, setting clear learning goals, actively building technical and client-facing skills and networking strategically, you can transform entry-level experience into a sustainable career. London’s market rewards creativity, resilience and initiative — start your pathway with purpose, document your progress and remain curious. The journey from intern to interior designer is a process of cumulative experience; each site visit, specification and presentation brings you closer to establishing your voice in one of the world’s most dynamic design capitals.