By Kalash Bhuptani, Interior Design Student, NIF Global
Hey everyone! I’m Kalash Bhuptani, an interior design student at NIF Global, and I’m beyond excited to share one of the most unforgettable experiences of my design journey so far—being selected to represent my institute at Lakmé Fashion Week x FDCI, alongside students from ten prestigious design schools across the country!
What began as a simple class brief—to create a conceptual model that reimagines spatial design—quickly turned into a deeply personal project. I poured my heart into every step: experimenting with materials, playing with textures and light, and making sure each element told a story. I wasn’t just designing a structure—I was crafting an experience.
My focus wasn’t just on aesthetics. I wanted my design to speak through functionality, mood, and emotional connection. After countless late nights, iterations, and mentor feedback, my vision finally came to life.
Then came the moment that still gives me goosebumps—I got the call.
I was selected!
Out of students from ten other institutes, my model and concept had been chosen to be part of Lakmé Fashion Week. I froze for a second. It felt surreal. The idea that something I had built in the classroom would now be showcased on such an iconic platform was beyond anything I had imagined.
Attending Lakmé Fashion Week as an interior design student was a completely unique experience. While the spotlight was (rightfully) on fashion, I had the rare opportunity to bring a different lens to the table—one that focused on space, structure, and atmosphere.
I even had the privilege of collaborating with legendary show director Lubna Adams, who opened my eyes to how spatial design can enhance the storytelling of a fashion show. That insight? It was a game-changer. I began to understand how the runway itself—its curves, materials, and lighting—can be as expressive as the garments being showcased.
For me, this wasn’t just about the display. It was about validation. It proved that interior design plays a vital role in shaping experiences across creative industries—not just in homes or office spaces, but in entertainment, events, and fashion too.
This experience reminded me that space isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a storytelling medium. It sets the mood, drives the emotion, and elevates the vision.
I’m incredibly grateful to NIF Global and the visionary platform ‘The Runway’ for giving interior design students a spotlight on such a grand stage. I feel proud and inspired to be part of a movement that’s redefining design boundaries.
If you’re working on a model, sketching a concept, or even just scribbling ideas in a notebook—don’t hold back.
You never know where your creativity might take you.
Believe in your design. Stay open to feedback. And most importantly, embrace the unexpected opportunities—they might just lead you to the runway.
