‘I want my designs to be comfortable, practical and meaningful’

He has always been interested in spaces, architecture, colours, and the way surroundings influence how people feel and interact. He wanted to pursue a field that would allow him to combine creativity with practical problem-solving. Hence, he chose Interior Design at Apeejay Institute of Design (AID); it offers a creative environment where students can explore their ideas through practical projects and learn through experience.

Meet Chitrang Rajput, a GDP-V student at the institute, who, in a candid interview, talks about how the faculty guidance and classroom experiences shaped his design perspective.

How has the programme helped you understand the relationship between creativity and functionality?

The programme has taught me that good design is not only about how a space looks but also how effectively it works. Through various projects, I have learnt to balance creativity with practical considerations such as circulation, ergonomics, user needs, and space planning. It has helped me realise that creativity becomes more meaningful when it addresses a genuine need or solves a problem.

Which project or assignment has challenged you the most, and what did you learn from it?

Projects that required me to design an entire space, from the initial concept to the final presentation, challenged me the most. Managing the concept, planning the space, and developing all the details simultaneously was difficult. However, the experience taught me to manage my time, conduct thorough research, and remain patient throughout the design process. It also made me more confident about presenting and explaining my ideas.

How do you approach a new design brief, from initial research to the final concept?

I begin by understanding the brief and identifying the users’ requirements. I then research the site, its context, the target users, and relevant existing examples. After that, I develop my ideas through sketches, mood boards, and concept exploration. Once I have a clear direction, I focus on space planning, materials, colours, and other details before preparing the final design and presentation.

Which areas of Interior Design interest you most?

I am particularly interested in residential and hospitality design because I enjoy creating spaces that establish an emotional connection with their users. I like considering how people move through a space and how lighting, materials, colours, and furniture can create a particular atmosphere. Sustainable design is another area I would like to explore further.

How have faculty guidance and classroom experiences shaped your design perspective?

The faculty has helped me understand that there is never only one way to approach a design problem. Their feedback has encouraged me to question my ideas, consider different possibilities, and refine my concepts. Classroom discussions and critiques have also taught me to accept constructive criticism with an open mind and present my work with greater confidence.

 What role do materials, lighting, colour, and space planning play in your design process?

These elements are essential to my design process because they work together to shape the overall experience of a space. Space planning ensures that the design is functional, while materials, lighting, and colour create its mood, character, and visual identity.

What are your career aspirations?

I hope to become an Interior Designer who combines creativity and functionality with a strong understanding of people and their needs. I want my designs to be visually appealing while also being comfortable, practical, and meaningful. After completing the programme, I hope to gain professional experience, work on diverse projects, and gradually develop my own design style and identity.