If you live in Sydney, or have even visited, you’ve probably wandered through the enchanted laneways of The Grounds of Alexandria. Known for its breathtaking floral installations, whimsical seasonal events, and picture-perfect styling, The Grounds is more than just a café; it’s a cultural experience. But behind its now-iconic visual identity is a Whitehouse Alumni success story: Theresa Moussa, Head Stylist and Creative Developer at The Grounds, and a graduate of the Bachelor of Design (Creative Direction and Styling) from Whitehouse Institute of Design, Australia.

From Classroom to Culture-Maker

Theresa’s journey began in the classrooms of Whitehouse, where she studied styling, photography, visual merchandising, concept development, and branding as part of the Creative Direction and Styling specialisation. Her talent, paired with a hands-on education that encourages originality, risk-taking, and design-thinking, helped her transition seamlessly into one of Sydney’s most dynamic creative roles.

Today, Theresa leads the group in transforming The Grounds into immersive environments that blend design, storytelling, and experience. From seasonal wonderlands to bespoke event concepts, her work draws on the full spectrum of design training, proof that a styling degree is more than just fashion; it’s about shaping spaces, emotions, and moments.

Why Study Styling and Creative Direction at Whitehouse?

Whitehouse Institute is Australia’s most awarded and respected design school, offering a two-year accelerated Bachelor of Design.

Students in the Creative Direction and Styling stream learn how to combine visual storytelling, photography, brand strategy, set design, and fashion communication, all core skills used in today’s digital, brand, and experiential design industries.

Whether you dream of curating Instagrammable spaces like The Grounds, producing photo shoots, designing brand activations, or leading events and campaigns, Whitehouse provides the tools, industry connections, and creative freedom to make it happen.

Career Pathways in Styling and Creative Direction

Theresa’s success is just one example of the broad career potential for Whitehouse graduates. Students who study Creative Direction and Styling, Event Management, or Photography and Design at Whitehouse can go on to become:

• Brand and content directors
• Editorial stylists
• Set and spatial designers
• Visual merchandisers
• Event concept creators
• Photography art directors
• Campaign stylists
• Social media strategists

With campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, and a strong national and international alumni network, Whitehouse gives students access to real-world projects, design competitions, and industry mentorships from day one.

The Whitehouse Advantage

What sets Whitehouse apart is its commitment to industry-led education, hands-on learning, and creative excellence. Our graduates don’t just follow trends, they set them.

Just like Theresa Moussa, who turned a design degree into a dream job bringing magic to life at one of Australia’s most visited destinations.

Inspired? Start Your Styling Journey at Whitehouse.

If you’re passionate about styling, creative direction, photography, or event design, Whitehouse Institute of Design, Australia is the place to start.

Learn more about our Creative Direction and Styling course and book a one-on-one design meeting to explore your future in design.

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