The Academy

A modern home office with a large wooden desk, a laptop, decorative stones, a potted plant, a black table lamp, and a tall chair in front of large window with black frames, and a white chandelier hanging from the dark ceiling.
The DIY Designer
$150.00
One time

The DIY Designers is a step-by-step course created for all who want a beautiful, pulled-together home — but don’t want the cost or overwhelm of hiring a designer. You’ll learn the exact systems, formulas, and styling techniques professionals use so you can confidently plan layouts, choose furniture, layer textures, and finish each room with intention. No guesswork. No costly mistakes. Just clear guidance and results you can see.

✓ Learn professional layout + styling secrets
✓ You want designer results on your own timeline
✓ Learn at you own pace
✓ Downloadable PDFs Included
✓ Unlimited lifetime access
A young woman with long blonde hair wearing a beige wide-brimmed hat, white ruffled top, and ripped jeans with red nail polish, standing in front of a white fireplace with wood logs. There are two candlesticks with candles on the mantel and a large decorative vase to the side.

Meet Your Instructor

Hi, I’m Alyssa — Founder & Lead Designer

I started AR Interiors with one goal: to make thoughtful, timeless design feel approachable and attainable. Over the years, I realized something — most people don’t lack creativity… they just lack a clear process. The Academy was created to share the exact systems, tools, and methods I use every day inside my studio — so you can skip the overwhelm and design with confidence.

My Background

I earned my Interior Design degree from Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM), where I trained in:

• space planning & technical layouts
• residential and commercial design
• materials & finishes
• drafting and construction documents
• furniture design & sourcing
• professional presentation methods

I later continued my education at Arizona State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, strengthening my foundation in communication, business thinking, and creative problem solving.

Through continuing education at California Lutheran University, I’ve deepened my expertise in business strategy, leadership, and professional development, while also completing specialized coursework in education and teaching. I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Business, with an expected completion in 2026.

Technical & Professional Skills

Alongside real-world client work, I’m professionally trained in:

• SketchUp
• Revit
• AutoCAD
• Adobe Creative Suite
• Microsoft Office Suite
• 2D drafting & 3D modeling
• construction documentation
• procurement & vendor management
• client consultations & project management

These are the same tools and workflows I teach inside The Academy — because design isn’t just about style, it’s about execution.

Why I Teach

After working with clients for years, I saw the same challenges again and again:

My clients felt overwhelmed.
Aspiring designers felt unsure where to start.

So I built the resource I wish existed when I began — clear, practical education that feels supportive, not intimidating.

My goal is simple:
To help you feel confident, capable, and excited about designing your space — or your career.

I’m so glad you’re here, and I can’t wait to design alongside you.

  • The Academy is the online education platform by AR Interiors, designed to teach interior design in a clear, approachable way. Inside, you’ll find step-by-step courses created for those looking to do it yourself or even aspiring designers.

  • The Academy is a simple, step-by-step system designed to help you create a beautiful, cohesive home with confidence. Inside, you’ll learn a clear design process to follow, how to measure and plan your layout, smart budgeting and shopping tips, and the core design principles that make a space feel balanced and high-end. You’ll also be guided through step-by-step room transformations, final styling techniques, and practical, real-world lessons you can use in your own home.

  • The Academy is broken into short, easy-to-follow lessons organized by chapters. You can go at your own pace and revisit materials anytime, making it simple to fit into your schedule.

  • Not at all. Our courses are designed for beginners and growing learners alike. We start with the fundamentals and build your confidence step-by-step.

  • You’ll receive lifetime access to your course materials, so you can return whenever you need a refresher or are starting a new project.

  • All courses are self-paced and available on demand, so you can learn when it works best for you.

  • Design is a skill, not a talent you’re born with. We teach you clear formulas and processes so you don’t have to rely on creativity alone — just simple, repeatable steps.

  • We keep our pricing simple and accessible.

    • The DIY Designers — $150

Frequently Asked Questions