From Sims to Spaces: How a Childhood Game Sparked My Career in Interior Design

From Sims to Spaces: How a Childhood Game Sparked My Career in Interior Design

It all started with a game. Not just any game, but The Sims—that pixelated, open-ended life simulation where most people spent their time guiding little characters through their day-to-day lives. But not me. At 13 years old, I wasn’t interested in who was dating who or making sure my Sims went to work on time. For me, The Sims was all about the houses.

I spent hours—sometimes entire weekends—completely immersed in designing homes for my digital characters. I’d build tiny starter homes, sprawling mansions, and everything in between. When the expansion packs came out, my world exploded with new creative possibilities. I was designing pet shops, boutique hotels, cafés, basically a whole miniature city. I wasn’t playing a game; I was building a dream.

At the time, I didn’t fully realise it, but those countless hours glued to a screen weren’t just child’s play. They were the early signs of a lifelong passion: interior design.

From Pixels to Passion

Fast forward a few years, and it came time to make those big life decisions—what to study, what career to pursue. For me, the choice was clear. While my friends weighed up options in business, law, or healthcare, I already knew what made me tick. Interior design wasn’t just a fun pastime anymore; it felt like my calling.

I took the first step by studying art and design in college. There, I learned how to translate creative ideas into real-world concepts. I refined my aesthetic eye and developed a better understanding of spatial planning, colour theory, and materials. From there, I went on to pursue a degree in interior design at university. It was challenging, exciting, and completely fulfilling—confirmation that I was on the right path.

Designing With Purpose

Since earning my degree, I’ve been fortunate to work on a wide variety of design projects. From private residential homes to commercial spaces like bars, cafés, restaurants, and even care homes, each project has taught me something new.

But whether I’m designing a cosy living room or a lively hospitality venue, my core philosophy remains the same: great design isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it makes people feel. That’s the true power of interior design. It can lift moods, encourage connection, and even bring a sense of calm in the middle of chaos.

For me, every project is an opportunity to create something meaningful. I consider the lifestyle, needs, and emotions of the people who will use the space. Then I use design to enhance their daily experience—not just aesthetically, but emotionally and functionally too.

From Designer to Guide

In many ways, writing my eBook felt like coming full circle. I wanted to take everything I’ve learned over the years and package it in a way that could help others who are at the beginning of their design journey. Maybe you’ve never picked up a paint swatch in your life. Or maybe, like me, you discovered a passion for interiors through something unconventional—like a video game.

Whatever your starting point, this book is designed to walk you through the fundamentals. I cover design styles, essential principles, and include practical tasks to get you thinking like a designer. My goal is to empower you to take control of your space and shape it into something that feels uniquely you.

The Journey Continues

Looking back, I smile at the thought that it all began with a game. But isn’t that the beauty of creativity? Inspiration can strike anywhere. For me, it was a digital sandbox. For you, it might be a Pinterest board, a magazine spread, or a friend’s beautifully curated home.

Wherever your journey begins, know that design is a skill you can learn, nurture, and grow. And once you start, you may find, as I did, that it becomes more than just a job or a hobby. It becomes a part of who you are.

So whether you’re redesigning your living room or dreaming up your forever home, I’m here to help guide you—and hopefully, inspire you to build something beautiful. After all, your home should be more than just a place to live. It should be a reflection of your story.

And for me, that story started with a 13-year-old kid, a computer, and a game that turned imagination into reality.

 

Ready to Design with Confidence?

Interior design isn’t about following strict rules—it’s about intentionality, personality, and balance. With our eBook, Designing Your Dream Home, you’ll gain the clarity and confidence to create spaces that not only look stunning but feel deeply personal.

👉 Download your copy of the eBook today and start transforming your house into a home that tells your story—beautifully, practically, and authentically.

Ultimately, the most compelling interiors are the ones that feel lived in and loved. Design isn’t just about what looks good—it’s about what feels like home.

 

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