
KATIE THOMAS
Katie Thomas, BA (Hons), MA, is a highly regarded Interior Designer, University Interior Design lecturer, co-founder of KTM Design, and Regional Director for the Society of British & International Design (SBID). She was invited to take on this role in 2018 in recognition of her significant contributions to the interior design industry.
In 2015, at just 22 years old, Katie co-founded KTM Design, quickly earning a reputation for delivering award-winning residential, commercial, and hospitality projects worldwide. Prior to starting the business, Katie completed her Interior Architecture and Design BA and MA with distinction at the Arts University Bournemouth. During her Bachelor's degree, she had the opportunity to intern with Dr. Vanessa Brady OBE, esteemed interior designer and President of the SBID, gaining a first hand experience of the dynamic world of interior design in London. After graduating, Katie was invited to mentor students, serve as a Visiting Tutor on the degree course, teach interior design short courses, and develop a new, year-long interior design course.
The founding of KTM Design had an unexpected twist. While completing her Master's degree, Premiership footballer and (now) England international Tyrone Mings approached Katie about starting a business together, leading to the creation of KTM Design. Although Katie had always planned to start her own interior design business, she couldn’t have predicted that it would happen in this way! Tyrone has since, deservedly, gone on to achieve an incredibly successful football career, garnering well-earned recognition and accolades along the way.
With nearly a decade of professional practice and teaching experience, Katie has guided and inspired hundreds of students, establishing herself as a respected educator and leader in the field.
Katie’s practice is primarily based in London, although she also maintains an office in Bournemouth. Over the past decade, she has successfully expanded KTM Design into a dynamic business while remaining active in the wider design community. Katie has spoken at numerous prestigious design events, written for national magazines, and appeared on television, further reinforcing her standing as an authority in the industry.
Passionate about sharing her interior design expertise, Katie is committed to giving back to the industry. The creation of her own design academy, The International Design & Innovation Academy (IDIA), is a reflection of this dedication, offering students practical insights and skills that can be applied both professionally and personally. Whether you're looking to pursue interior design as a career, enhance your own living spaces, or simply deepen your design knowledge, Katie’s courses are designed to inspire and guide you at every stage of your journey.
Katie’s courses provide valuable learning opportunities for anyone interested in interior design—whether you're a complete beginner, a homeowner looking to refresh your space, or someone considering a career change. Suitable for adults of all ages, her courses are perfect for anyone with a passion for design, whether you’re starting out in the field or just want to create beautiful spaces in your own home. Through her expert guidance, you’ll gain the confidence and knowledge to approach design projects with creativity and purpose, no matter your background or goals.