Mary Wilhelm, NCIDQ, IIDA
INTERIOR DESIGN
Mary graduated in 2018 from SIU Carbondale with her bachelor’s of science in Interior Design. Her career started at a furniture dealership before shifting to the architecture and design side of the industry at the very beginning of the pandemic in 2020. Shortly after, she passed her NCIDQ exams and became a registered interior designer in the state of MO. Since then, Mary has had the opportunity to work on corporate, healthcare, hospitality, education, and retail design projects. This experience was recognized in 2026 when she was named part of Interior Design Magazine’s class of 30/30.
On a stressful Tuesday morning, with the weekend far off, what other job do you dream about?
I always say I would be interested in studying anthropology with a focus on linguistics. The evolution of people, civilization, and languages have always fascinated me.
What is your favorite color, shape, or texture?
I like chunky woven textiles.
Which is your favorite day of the week and why?
My favorite day of the week is Tuesday because you have the momentum started from Monday but you still have the whole week to get things done.
Which social or environmental issues do you wish to tackle on the next project?
In today’s digital media age, I think people are starting to crave being part of a community again. My goal would be to create spaces that encourage impromptu interactions with others that can help foster these types of communities.
Where do you find your best ideas / the best design inspiration?
I love finding design inspiration in vintage / antique jewelry! It is a great study of scale, composition, and craftsmanship.
What fad or trend do you hope comes back?
Creating mixtapes / CDs as gifts for people and intentionally choosing songs for the specific person
Favorite work resource?
I love having alternate places in the office to work.
Best design advice you’ve ever received / given?
Always stay curious.
What is the most functional addition to any design?
Wayfinding! Being able to integrate wayfinding elements into the design as opposed to just adding signage after the fact can make a project feel more complete and intentional.
What’s your favorite landscape anywhere in the world?
I am a big fan of the Smokey Mountains! My favorite place the world is probably on a balcony overlooking the mountains with a cup of coffee and a book, with nowhere to be.