Recently, we had the pleasure of interviewing Morgan Miller, a current student at Heritage School of Interior Design in Denver. Morgan shared her journey from being an elementary school teacher to pursuing her passion for interior design, her goals for the future, and what inspires her creativity. Continue reading for her thoughtful and inspiring answers:
Where are you from, and what was your career path prior to HSID?
I am originally from Colorado and currently live in Castle Rock with my family. Before pursuing interior design, I spent eight years as an elementary school teacher, teaching both kindergarten and second grade. Teaching helped me develop creativity, organization, and problem-solving skills—qualities I look forward to applying in the design world.
I’m married and have a one-and-a-half-year-old daughter, who is my biggest inspiration. She motivates me every day to follow my passions and create a meaningful career that brings joy and beauty into people’s lives.
I am so excited to be a part of the Heritage School of Interior Design community and embark on this new chapter, combining my love for design with the experiences I’ve gained throughout my career and personal life.
Why did you decide to pursue interior design as your career?
I’ve always had a passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces, but it wasn’t until recently that I decided to pursue interior design as a career. My husband owns and operates a residential and commercial painting company, Elk Horn Painting, and he is looking to expand by adding an interior design department. This opportunity felt like the perfect fit, allowing me to align my passion with a family business we can grow together.
With my background as an elementary school teacher, I’ve developed skills in creativity, organization, and problem-solving, all of which I’m excited to apply to interior design. I love the idea of helping people transform their spaces, making them feel more connected to their surroundings. I’m eager to dive into this field and build a career that combines my love for design with our family business’s goals.
What drew you to select Heritage for your education?
I was drawn to the Heritage School of Interior Design because of its well-structured Interior Design Master Certification program, which allows you to complete it in as little as six months. As a busy mom, I really appreciated the flexibility and efficiency of the program, making it possible to pursue my passion while balancing family life.
I also love how practical the curriculum is, with hands-on classes and field visits that offer real-world experience. The opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals and apply those lessons in real design settings is exactly what I was looking for. Heritage felt like the perfect place to gain the knowledge and confidence I need to build a meaningful career in interior design.
What is your future career goal as an interior designer?
My future career goal as an interior designer is to eventually design residential homes and model homes. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of creating spaces that feel both beautiful and functional, where people can feel truly at home. I’m also excited about the opportunity to assist with color consultations for my husband’s clients through his company, Elk Horn Painting.
Working alongside his business to expand into design will allow me to combine our talents and offer clients a more comprehensive service. My goal is to build a career that blends my passion for design with personalized touches, helping people create spaces they love.
Where do you draw your design inspiration?
I draw my design inspiration from a variety of sources, but I find myself most inspired by European interiors. I love how effortlessly they blend timeless elegance with modern functionality, using rich textures, natural materials, and soft, muted colors. I also have a deep appreciation for spaces that tell a story, where every detail feels intentional and adds meaning.
Beyond that, my everyday life influences my creativity. Being a mom has given me a special appreciation for spaces that are both beautiful and practical. I also draw inspiration from nature, travel, and art—anything that evokes a sense of calm, warmth, and connection.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I’d like to share that I have a deep love for traveling to Italy. The stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture are a constant source of inspiration for my design aesthetic. Each trip ignites my creativity and appreciation for beauty, which I aim to incorporate into my work.
More than anything in the world, I love being a mom. My daughter brings me so much joy, and every moment spent with her is precious. Balancing my passion for interior design with motherhood is an exciting journey, and I look forward to creating beautiful spaces that reflect the warmth and love of family life.
Follow along Morgan’s journey on Instagram here.
Learn more about Heritage School of Interior Design Denver here!
Professional Photo Credit: Southern Veil Photography – Abby Higgins