‘I aspire to become a designer who combines creativity with social impact’

Samra Saifi, pursuing Interior Design (GDP–III) at Apeejay Institute of Design (AID),  is someone who has always believed in observing the little details around her. “Since childhood, I found myself drawn towards colours, spaces and the way ordinary things could be transformed into something meaningful with creativity,” the Apeejay student said.  She also added, “Instead of just seeing things as they are, I used to imagine what they could become. This ability to visualise and express is what inspired me to choose design as my field of study. For me, design is not only about aesthetics—it’s a way to solve problems, communicate feelings and make everyday life more functional and beautiful,” highlighted. In a quick interview, she talks about how AID is shaping her skills for the industry. Read edited excerpts:   

What made you choose Apeejay Institute of Design? How are the teachers shaping your skills?

I chose Apeejay Institute of Design because of its reputation for strong foundational learning and its practical approach to design education. The moment I visited the campus and interacted with the faculty, I felt a sense of clarity and direction. The teachers don’t just teach—they mentor, question, and push us to think beyond conventional ideas. They help us understand the “why” behind every design choice, which is shaping my thinking process and helping me build confidence in my creative abilities.

The foundation programme at Apeejay covers diverse areas of design — from sketching and materials to digital tools. Which aspect do you enjoy the most, and why?

Though I enjoy all aspects, I am especially drawn to sketching and visualization. It allows me to translate my thoughts directly onto paper without limitations. Sketching gives me creative freedom and helps me explore multiple ideas quickly. It feels like the most honest form of expression, because every line reflects a thought, a concept or even an emotion.

Can you share a memorable classroom project or assignment that challenged your creativity or taught you something new?

One of the most memorable projects was when I had to document and interpret the life experience of a local craftsman. It challenged me emotionally and creatively because it was more than just design—it was about understanding people and their struggles. I learned how design can give voice to real stories and how empathy is one of the most important tools of a designer.

What tools or software have you found most helpful in your design work so far?

Along with traditional sketching tools, I find software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop or AutoCAD very helpful for refining ideas and creating digital presentations. These tools help me execute my concepts more professionally and bring precision to my final outcomes.

How do you approach research when starting a new design project?

I begin by understanding the problem or purpose behind the project. I study user needs, surroundings, and context and collect visual references. I prefer observing real-life situations and interacting with people to understand how they respond to design. Along with this, I explore existing solutions, materials, and technical aspects. For me, research is about knowing what already exists and discovering what is missing—that’s where design steps in.

What are your future aspirations?

In the future, I aspire to become a designer who combines creativity with social impact. I want to create designs that are not just visually pleasing but also meaningful and accessible. I see myself working on projects that improve people’s lives in subtle yet powerful ways. I aim to keep learning, exploring different mediums, and eventually build my own design identity that reflects my values and experiences.