THE NEW P E R S P E C T I V E
INTERNSHIP
INTERIOR DESIGN
In the year 2024, I embarked on an internship with a firm named Reforms Interiors. This interior design firm, located in Powai near MIDC on SAKI Vihar Road, is renowned for its excellence in residential interior designs and high-end projects. Reforms Interiors provided me with the opportunity to gain exposure to the field of interior design, specifically within the substantial residential interior design industry.
During my tenure at Reforms Interiors, I acquired numerous skills pertinent to interior design, complementing my architectural studies. Learning to design both the structure and interiors of buildings allowed me to understand the creation of an integrated ecosystem, transforming spaces into unique environments. The experience highlighted the various layers and considerations a designer must address to create personalized spaces for clients. Additionally, it offered insights into the stages and experiences involved in managing an interior design company.
WORK BREIFE
Throughout my internship, I contributed to three projects: one at Sitaram Building, CSMT; another at Personal Search Services Private Limited, an office in Prabhadevi; and a high-end residential project at Lodha Lotus in Lower Parel. My responsibilities encompassed all stages of an interior design project, including site visits, client interactions, mood board creation, designing, budgeting, and execution. I utilized software such as AutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp, V-Ray, and Microsoft Excel.
CLIENT INTERACTION
At the beginning of each project, I engaged directly with clients. One notable interaction involved the client of a residential project who provided a mood board with pictures and inspirations for the desired design of their home. This interaction facilitated a fruitful discussion, simplifying the development of a design concept. These practical client interactions taught me how to effectively communicate and understand clients' needs, enabling the delivery of personalized and curated interior design solutions.
SITE VISIT
I conducted site visits for all ongoing projects. These sites were initially blank canvases, requiring complete transformations. The initial site visits, undertaken before the execution and planning phases, were crucial in understanding how to approach each project effectively and efficiently. This process involved assessing the necessary work, budgeting, and planning. For instance, the Sitaram Building site was a new, barren 3BHK flat, while the Personal Search Services Private Limited site was an old commercial structure slated for expansion. The contrasting initial conditions of these projects provided valuable insights into the diverse challenges and approaches required for successful design execution.
PLANNING
Following client interactions, mood board creation, and site visits, the next step was space planning. This phase involved engaging discussions with senior designers and colleagues, resulting in an innovative and cost-effective design concept that met the client's requirements. Through this stage, I learned the importance of teamwork and how collaborative efforts contribute to the development of layered and comprehensive designs.
ELEVATION
Based on the finalized plans, numerous iterations of wall elevations were created. This iterative process involved continuous feedback from clients, mood boards, and design concepts from colleagues, leading to refined and well-considered designs.
3D VIEWS
To facilitate client understanding and approval of proposed design concepts, we produced 3D renders and views of custom furniture, fittings, and rooms. These visualizations were highly appreciated by clients, making the design concepts more tangible and enhancing our effectiveness and efficiency. This stage also introduced me to the use of 3D rendering software such as V-Ray and Rhino, emphasizing the importance of simplifying complex information for client communication.
PRESENTATION
Following multiple iterations of 3D views, planning, and elevations, a final presentation was prepared for client approval and subsequent execution. Upon client approval, we proceeded with budgeting and securing advance payments.
Budgeting and Bill of Quantities (BOQ)
This stage involved the meticulous creation of a design budget, detailing the financial requirements for the approved design. Collaborating with colleagues, I learned how to source cost-effective, high-quality materials, manage labor, and oversee execution. Budgeting is a critical aspect of running a design firm, providing exposure to the vast array of materials available in the design field and their efficient use.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, my internship at Reforms Interiors was an enriching experience, offering profound insights into the operations of a residential design firm. It taught me client interaction, team collaboration, design concept simplification, cost-effectiveness, efficiency, budgeting, and many other valuable skills. This experience significantly boosted my confidence in the principles of design and architecture, making it a highly fruitful and educational journey.