Each year, we honour graduating CSD CEP student designers worldwide through both in-person and online award ceremonies.

The CSD CEP Student Prize is awarded yearly to up to three design students from each CSD Accredited course, who have demonstrated great work throughout their course, recognising their talents and constant hard work.

As part of our celebrations, we are excited to highlight Phoebe Inskip Assoc.CSD, a gifted CSD CEP Student Prize winner from the University of Derby. Join us as we explore her studies and her passion for creating spaces that enhance well-being and bring joy to those who experience them.

Tell us a little about your work:

My work is driven by a deep appreciation for colour and nature, aiming to blend these elements seamlessly within an urban setting. As part of my studies, I redeveloped an existing building, Exeter House, to enhance sustainability and encourage more footfall to the site by preserving its heritage while adding further beauty.

Although conceptual, this project honed my skills uniquely, as I faced similar challenges to those found in professional practice, for example, the building’s inherent issues. My work enabled me to understand how to utilise the given space, survey buildings, and focus on the interior scheme while also appreciating the site’s exterior.

My design concept, “Urban Oasis,” focuses on transforming Exeter House into an innovative, mixed-use high-end development. The goal is to preserve the building’s historical heritage while updating it to meet contemporary needs.

What inspired you to become a designer?

From a young age, I found myself enchanted by the world of design, though, at the time, I might not have recognised it as such. My family used to tell me stories about how I spent time rearranging the cushions and ornaments, driven by an innate desire to create harmony and beauty in my surroundings. They noticed that it wasn’t just about making things look pretty; it was about finding the perfect combination of elements that felt just right together. I remember vividly how I would carefully select items based on their colours and how they complemented each other, fascinated by the way different hues could evoke a spectrum of emotions.

My love for design is deeply rooted in my passion for colours and their profound impact on our feelings and moods. This fascination guided me through my academic journey, culminating in a dissertation focused on the intricate relationship between colour, lighting, and mental health in home environments. I explored how these elements could transform spaces into sanctuaries that promote well-being and happiness. The research not only deepened my understanding but also ignited a stronger desire to pursue design as a means of helping others.

Design, for me, is more than just an aesthetic pursuit; it is a powerful tool for enhancing the human experience. Through thoughtful and intentional design, I aim to create interiors that uplift spirits and foster a sense of peace and contentment. Every project is an opportunity to bring joy and comfort to someone’s life, making their space a true reflection of their best selves.

My journey as a designer is a continuous exploration of how to blend beauty, functionality, and emotional well-being. The joy I derive from helping others feel better in their spaces is what drives me every day. It’s a privilege to turn my childhood passion into a lifelong mission to make a positive impact through the power of design.

What does the award of the CEP Student Prize mean to you?

Receiving this award feels like a validation of those early dreams and the dedication that has brought them to life. It’s a testament to the countless hours of study, the detailed planning, and the creative experimentation that have gone into my work. The journey from envisioning concepts to seeing them materialise from pen to paper has been incredibly rewarding, and this recognition is a cherished reminder of why I embarked on this path in the first place.

I am deeply grateful for all the guidance and support from my lecturers. Their expertise, encouragement, and constructive feedback have been instrumental in my growth as a designer. They challenged me to think critically, push creative boundaries, and strive for excellence in every aspect of my work. This award is as much a reflection of their dedication to teaching as it is of my efforts as a student.

The CEP Student Prize signifies more than just an achievement; it represents the realisation of my aspirations and the potential to make a meaningful impact through design. It inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and striving for excellence in every project I undertake. This award is a milestone that propels me forward, reinforcing my commitment to creating spaces that enhance well-being and bring joy to those who experience them. I am profoundly grateful for this recognition and excited for the future, where I can continue to transform dreams into reality and contribute to the world through the art and science of design.

What’s next for you?

What’s next for me is an exciting journey of continuous learning and growth. I’m eager to join a dynamic company where I can immerse myself in new challenges, expand my skills, and collaborate with talented professionals. I believe that working in a team environment will provide invaluable experiences and insights, allowing me to refine my abilities and enjoy creating impactful designs every day.

In the long term, I aspire to set up my own design firm, with a mission centred around well-being and sustainability. I want to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also promote mental and emotional health. I believe in the power of thoughtful design to make a significant difference in people’s lives, and I want to show how even simple changes can have profound impacts on well-being.

My goal is to make sustainable design accessible and appealing to everyone, including those who may not initially see its benefits. By demonstrating how environmentally conscious choices can be seamlessly integrated into everyday life, I hope to inspire others to embrace sustainability. Ultimately, I want my work to contribute to a better, more balanced world, where good design serves the greater good.

This vision excites me and drives me forward, and I am ready to take the next steps toward making it a reality.

Where can we find you?

You can find me via the CSD Find-a-Designer here or view my portfolio here.

Are you an Interior Architecture and Venue Design student?

Individuals who have recently graduated, are in the early phases of their Interior Architecture and Venue Design career or have the required equivalent competencies can apply to join CSD as Associate members. Learn more about CSD Associate membership here.