Interior Design Course Tutors

Helen Morrow

With over twenty years in both large-scale hospitality and corporate projects, Helen Morrow is a highly experienced interior designer with a lifelong passion for design and a unique international perspective. Originally from the United States, she has worked both in Philadelphia, New York City and Sydney.

With a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Drexel University, Helen’s professional focus has been in the commercial interior design industry, both in workplace and hospitality design, and she has worked with many large well-known clients, casino operators and restaurant owners in bespoke interior projects across the world. She is proficient in best practice industry design and construction methodologies across numerous CAD and graphic programs.

A natural mentor and teacher with a Certificate in Training and Assessment, she has also taught interior design in certificate, diploma and Bachelor of Design courses in various educational centres and is currently practising design within a large multi-discipline architectural firm. Helen’s professional commitments extends to promoting diversity and inclusion in the architectural community, actively attending industry events and participating in sustainability initiatives within her firm.

A firm believer in a healthy work and life balance, Helen is an avid surf ski paddler and spends most weekends paddling, as well as spending social time with close friends and family.

Get to Know Helen

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got into interior design?

I'm an interior designer specialising in commercial interiors, I have worked both in the USA and Australia with over 20 years of professional experience. I loved creative arts and making things as a child and would often spend many hours in various craft making activities. Interior Design combines creative expression with the application of materials and forms and I was drawn to the technical challenge of creating built design.

What inspired you to become an interior design tutor?

Being in a studio environment is a big part of the interior design profession and the collaboration and mentoring of other designers in that space is a very rewarding experience for me. Teaching is a natural extension for me of the design studio dialogue and mutual exploration and discussion of design. I am often inspired and rejuvenated by my student's passion, talent and delight in their work.

What are some essential skills or qualities that every interior designer should possess?

Constant delight in the visual expression. Technical knowledge married to creativity.

What is your teaching philosophy when it comes to interior design?

We are all students in design and collaboration, and design dialogue is key to successful designers. Imparting my knowledge while being inspired and impressed by young designers is a mutually beneficial process.

What are some key skills and knowledge areas you focus on in your courses?

Professional standards. Concept development. Technical essentials.

How would you describe your design style and where do you draw inspiration from?

Good design is a language, not a style! I am inspired by many styles and constantly draw inspiration from movies, graphic design, history, fashion, nature, etc. Whatever catches and delights the eyes.

What is your favourite part about being a tutor?

Seeing students develop skills throughout the course. Design submittals that make me say "wow!".

What advice would you give to new students?

You never stop learning. Interior design is a lifelong journey. Design enhances the spaces that we all use and can change lives.

This is a wonderful program! As a mom of two young children, making a career change to interior design was looking out of reach until I found The Interior Design Institute. IDI allowed me to obtain a Diploma in interior design while working full time at my job and fulfill my family obligations with my husband and children.

Erin Rowe

Nanaimo, BC

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