Behind the Design: What I Learned as a Tran + Thomas Intern

As a growing interior architecture student, this summer of 2026 I had the opportunity to intern with the Tran + Thomas Design Studio. While I have learned a great deal over the past few months, one of my biggest takeaways has been understanding what it truly means to work in the design industry. My years in school and real life work experience have kept this revolving matter consistent; interior design is the art of curating spaces to enhance the quality of everyday living. It redefines how people experience environments, shaping emotion while optimizing functionality.

During my time at Tran + Thomas, I experienced firsthand how the studio approaches both residential and commercial design. Every project is treated as an opportunity to create something thoughtful, functional, and personal to the client. From early concepts through construction and installation, the team considers how each decision contributes to the overall experience of a space.

One thing that stood out to me was how collaborative the Tran + Thomas team is throughout the design process. Designers work closely with clients, contractors, vendors, and one another to carry each project from an idea into a beautifully finished space. Sitting in on client meetings and attending site visits showed me how much communication and coordination happen behind the scenes.

I also saw how strongly Tran + Thomas values planning, problem-solving, and attention to detail. Throughout my internship, I supported projects through brainstorming, sketching, sourcing fixtures and materials, finish documentation, inventory organization, and site and installation visits. These experiences gave me a better understanding of the amount of work that goes into creating a cohesive final result.

The technical side of the studio was equally valuable to experience. I assisted with the documentation of floor transitions, cabinetry, fireplaces, and other architectural elements, the crafted annotations to communicate design intent. This reinforced how even the smallest decisions can make a significant difference in the functionality and quality of a space.

My internship also helped connect what I have learned in school with professional practice. Seeing how drawings, material selections, client communication, sourcing, and construction coordination all work together gave me a much clearer understanding of full-service interior design and strengthened my interest in high-end residential and commercial work.

My time at Tran + Thomas was an exceptional experience, and I am incredibly grateful for the growth, knowledge, and guidance I received from every member of the team. This internship not only strengthened my technical and professional skills, but also expanded my understanding of the design industry and the collaborative effort required to bring ideas to life. As I continue my journey in interior architecture, I will carry forward the lessons, experiences, and relationships I built during my time here. I leave with a deeper appreciation for the design process, a stronger sense of confidence in my abilities, and lasting connections that have inspired me both as a person and as an emerging designer.