What happens when you stop asking “What if?” and finally say “Why not me?”
For Melanie Lovell, it meant walking away from nearly two decades in finance to pursue something she’d quietly loved for years: creating spaces that feel as good as they look.
What started as a home renovation project became a calling, and today Melanie is the founder of her own growing interior design business, working with clients across the UK to transform homes into reflections of personality and purpose.
Her story is proof that it’s never too late to back yourself, never too risky to change course, and never too indulgent to follow a dream that’s been quietly building all along.
Tell us about you and your career so far.
After 18 years in Finance, I decided to follow a lifelong passion for timeless design and beautifully curated spaces. Over the years, I always found myself drawn to home design magazines, consuming every page with delight and taking a million photos of every design-inspiring space I came across.
In 2020, I had the chance to carry out my own design project when we renovated our semi-detached home in Surrey. It was a blank canvas and the perfect opportunity to inject my style and personality into the space. Once completed, I received so many lovely compliments from friends and family. It felt like the icing on the cake after all the thought and effort I’d put into curating a home that was both beautiful and functional.
What inspired you to launch your interior design business?
After renovating our Surrey home, I got the itch to keep designing, especially with friends and family constantly asking for advice. That’s when I started wondering: could interior design be my full-time career?
I knew I’d love the job because it never felt like work. So I began researching courses, spoke to working designers for insight, and eventually enrolled in the LCS Interior Design Diploma in 2024 while still working in finance. I wanted to be sure I was truly suited to this path and would enjoy it long-term.
What was unique or special about the training you received at LCS?
I chose the LCS interior design course because it felt more interactive and engaging than others I looked at. The weekly live sessions created a classroom-like experience, allowing for real-time interaction with other students and support from practising interior designers.
Their advice was practical, relevant, and current. The homework assignments and live SketchUp tutorials kept me motivated and accountable. I honestly believe that doing this course alone or at your own pace wouldn’t have given me the same momentum. It was intense but rewarding, and earning a diploma with a final grade gave me the confidence and foundation I needed to begin my new career.
What types of clients or projects do you typically work on now?
I’m currently working on residential properties, with two projects based in Surrey and two e-design projects for clients in Manchester and Birmingham.
My focus is on helping clients renovate or refresh their homes, as well as working with property developers who want to increase the value of investment properties or attract short-term lets.
What do you love about residential interior design?
I love residential interior design because it allows me to connect deeply with clients and reflect their personality within their home. Creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional can genuinely be life-changing. It has a huge impact on well-being.
Since completing my diploma, I’ve also been studying Feng Shui to further support clients’ wellness through their environments. For me, residential interior design is about more than just aesthetics. It’s about enriching lives through intentional and thoughtful design.
Do you see yourself moving into commercial projects in the future?
I’m definitely open to working on commercial interior design projects in the future. I believe well-designed office spaces can significantly enhance comfort, productivity, and employee satisfaction. With my background in Feng Shui, I also understand how thoughtful layouts can improve focus and output in the workplace.
What interior design trends are you loving right now?
I’m absolutely loving the romantic trend right now, where soft, feminine curves are celebrated in design. I’m especially drawn to scalloped details — whether it’s pillows, trays, bedside tables, or vases — and yes, I own a few of these pieces myself!
Any tips for someone thinking about launching their own interior design business?
If interior design is something you’ve been passionate about for a while, I’d say go for it. It’s such a fulfilling career.
But, as someone who’s naturally risk-averse, I’d also say it’s important to ensure you feel financially secure before making the leap. I waited until my 40s to do this, and I’m glad I gave myself the time to feel ready.
The LCS Residential Interior Design Diploma is a brilliant way to get a real taste of the industry and provides a solid foundation. My advice would be to complete a good course and then keep learning, whether it’s through books, YouTube, podcasts, or by speaking with other designers. Attending design events is also a great way to network and build relationships with suppliers.
Where can people connect, follow, and engage with you?
You can connect with me mostly on Instagram: @melanielovellinteriors, where I share my current projects and glimpses into my own home. I’m also working on building a presence on TikTok soon!
And finally, my website is: www.melanielovellinteriors.co.uk, where you can reach out to me via email or phone.
