Interior Design Academy Arvostelua 50

I am adding this review in the interest of balance. I paid ~€700 to complete Geri’s online course as I think she is a skilled interior designer and I hoped to learn a lot. I now think this is very overpriced for a largely pre-recorded course of the quality I experienced. The reviews shown here are all dated Oct 2024 and were as a result of a competition run by Geri – the prize was two one hour consults with her for clicking on a link and leaving a review which incentivises positive reviews. Regarding the course itself, it is quite basic. There are some very aesthetic slides but there is a lack of real detail and explanation. Not enough examples are shown and some are quite poor (e.g. in a module on spatial planning). There are few examples shown of what doesn’t work which would be helpful. The section on joinery details was particularly poor especially around material choices. The section on window dressings was equally poor with advice to use blackout lining for bedrooms and cinema rooms – really? Only three curtain headings types were mentioned without any proper explanation or pictures of each. Other modules are equally light on detail. There is an option to connect with Geri in a chat section but a lot of the replies from her are quite basic and lack meaningful suggestions. She tends to be complimentary towards everyone’s photos but it would be great if she would guide people here other than to suggest a generic usually neutral paint colour. Overall it’s a pretty but overpriced course with little real substance. You learn little more than you would from following her and others on Instagram. An interior design course I completed some years ago through an adult education college was far better and cost a lot less. There are other options for pre-recorded courses e.g. through Create Academy and BBC Maestro which give you access to multiple courses from other highly skilled individuals and for a much lower cost.
Just a follow up to reiterate that it's my opinion that this course doesn't reflect value for money at the price I paid. It really is too short on detail, explanations and examples (both good and bad) for the price. The responses in the private online community are sometimes quick but can often be several weeks after the initial query. In addition follow-up queries are frequently not responded to. Building/renovating is an expensive time and this money could be better spent by simply using the many free/lower cost resources that are out there.

A really excellent course - great mix of the technical and practical, with design principles. All shared with real expertise and generosity. Well paced and of value whether as a hobbyist or beginner, or someone exploring design as a profession. Delighted I signed up.

I have followed Geri for many years and as I go through my renovation it is brilliant to have this resource to help with decision making and developing my own personal style. The course is delivered in true Geri style which is both enjoyable and informative.

I have followed Geri for years on Instagram as I love her work and when I saw she was running a course I jumped at the opportunity to improve my own knowledge of interior design. The content exceeded my expectations, it's a flexible online course that you can jump in and out of which is great when life can be busy. What I really loved was the time she gave to answering questions and the share your project page where we all benefitted from each others projects or experiences. She took the overwhelm out of design. Thank you Geri.

Signing up for this course has been truly transformative for me in the most positive way.Mid new build for our family home , I was feeling overwhelmed with decision fatigue and stuck in a creative rut simply not knowing where to start with anything.I figured an online interior design course could be a great solution.The flexible self paced learning and easy to follow lessons/ chapters alongside the very enjoyable group calls covering key topics in terms of designing spaces for our homes have facilitated everyone with the opportunity to develop new skills and gain a better understanding of the components that go into designing a space that feels cohesive.
If you are considering this course I wouldnt hesitate in signing up as it is so enjoyable and a terrific way to enable one to create a cohesive home with advice from one of the leading industry experts.100% worth the investment and money well spent in my opinion.Personally I have gained so much from this course.

I’m obsessed with colour and interiors and this course was really so worth doing. You never regret learning something new and this course didn’t disappoint. Geri provided practical tips on planning a space, lighting, getting to know your style and seeing cohesion using style boards as well as being so generous on advice and sources. Still learning…

I have been an avid follower and admired Geri and her design teams work on Instagram for some time and so I was excited to sign up to The Interior Design Academy. The course is broken down into easy to follow modules and Geri provides visual aids from her own design portfolio. The discussion board allows you to upload and share your upcoming projects for feedback from Geri and fellow course members. The group calls are great to discuss ideas and gain confidence in making design decisions. Flexible online learning means that you can learn at your own pace to fit around family and work commitments. Would highly recommend if you’re thinking of joining.

I signed up to Geri's interior design course as we had just purchased our forever home as I was really unsure where to start with interiors. I was very nervous to make expensive mistakes that we would regret in the near future. The course is detailed without there being too much information overload. Geri has an exceptional way of making things very clear and understandable. I find the group calls really helpful! Would highly recommend

This is a very good foundation course for those interested in interior design and particularly if you are actively involved in a project . A lot of very useful guidance and information provided by Geri. Something for everyone !

Really helpful course. I have done only 70% so far and learned so much useful information and ideas that I wouldn't possibly get anywhere else.
Geri is really nice, helpful, easy to understand and there is no pressure if you behind or miss session.
Thank you Geri.

The online learning is very flexible when juggling work home and learning, it is great to be connected to a community of other interior design enthusiasts with access to Geri’s wealth of expertise and knowledge throughout the course, I would highly recommend the course

I signed up to Geri Designs interior design course in August as we are about the renovate our home. I am slowly getting through the course and enjoying every bit of it. The modules are so practical and the content is very real and relatable. Geri is extremely hands on with her advice to all. The format of the course includes modules, a discussion forum and video calls, all of which are a valuable learning tool. I would highly recommend signing up and feel I have gained so much already and I’m not finished yet!!! You won’t regret it!!

I have followed Geri Designs on Instagram for a few years and love her style. When she announced she was doing a course, I didn't hesitate to sign up as we are in our new home and have so many rooms to finish but I really did not know where to start! The content is simple to understand, and can be done in your own time. I love that Geri helps you explore 'your' style (whatever that may be); she does not give one example of what is right or wrong but really helps you gain confidence in your own ideas and helps bring them to life. The group calls are amazing for getting ideas and asking questions live (which I really was not expecting). For anyone looking to re-do an house, buy a new build, do up a room or just want to explore the space of interior design, this course is for you! 10 /10.

I joined this course as a complete novice having just bought a second hand home in bad need of an overhaul. The course is great, it really is thoughtfully planned so you can think and plan right from the basics to the finishing touches. Geri is a great coach, she helps give you the tools and resources to help you plan for your style and vision. She is super helpful and is really trying to build a sharing community within the course. The other participants are helpful and sharing their plans is great.
I was worried that the timing of my project would not work but I’ve been able to jump in and out of modules as it’s all there for you.
I think everyone will get a lot out of this course, my project started as a bit overwhelming but now it’s a passion project thanks to all the support and guidance this course has given me.

I have so enjoyed the Interior Design Academy Course with Geri O’Toole. It has been so informative, well presented and inclusive. You are able to go at your own pace, have access to live presentations and discussions, and an on-line forum too. Geri has been so generous is sharing her knowledge, and I would happily recommend this course to anyone wanting to gain interior design knowledge and/or help with a personal project. KB

Taking this course is the best decision I've made! I was so nervous signing up for the course, but I shouldn't have been. From the word "go,I was hooked. I inhaled each module some a few times!
I've made so many notes and looking at lighting in every space differently.
The calls are fantastic and being able to revisit them to reflect and refresh.
The community is amazing and I've learned so much from everyone else.
As for Geri, thank you for a fantastically well put together course. Easy to follow and being able to dip in and out with ease.
It has expanded my love of interiors and design. I've found new confidence in myself and can now look forward to my new home build, knowing that I can make more educated choices.

Geri ,I didn’t start the course yet ,looking forward to it from the brilliant reviews,I’m having surgery next month and I’m using my time off to do your course and gain the knowledge to put it to use here at our home ,love following your page and style ,Patsy

Excellent course. Very informative and well presented. Geri is very supportive and approachable. The group calls are great and provide a wealth of knowledge. The community aspect of the course has enriched the whole experience.

I cannot recommend the Interior Design Academy's course enough! It has exceeded my expectations in every way. The curriculum is meticulously designed to cover every aspect of interior design and whether you're a complete beginner or someone with some experience, the course seamlessly guides you through the essentials of interior design.

Geri is not only incredibly knowledgeable but also truly passionate about the field. Her real-world experience brought so much depth to the lessons, making complex concepts easy to grasp. What I found particularly valuable was the emphasis on creating something interesting as well as including design elements that are from my own life, experiences and taste —you're encouraged to develop your unique style while learning from the best.

An additional bonus was the forum where we could show our ideas/plans to Geri and even speak with her during group calls. She is so warm and approachable and I have learned so much which I will take forward into my future projects.

I am starting a new build and this course has been very beneficial. It covers all the basics in interior design, lighting, colours, layout etc so it’s been good to consider all these things before we progress through our build while we have time to make changes. It can be done at your own pace and each topic revisited when needed.