Value of 'Interior Design' increase in state
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, October 04 2021:
'Interior Design' is an important part of construction.
Although it was not considered to be important in the past, it is increasingly becoming an important component in various constructions in the state in the past few years.
Over the past years, many young talents have decided to pursue this profession and went on to become interior designers/interior decorators.
One such prominent interior designer is Rajkumari Saroj.
In a tete-a-tete with The People's Chronicle, Rajkumar Saroj recounted that she studied BA honours in English from University of Calcutta and went on to pursue MBA till the third semester.
While pursuing the MBA course, she came upon a coffee corner and decided to pursue an interior design course.
She then realised the wide scope of the course and as such, decided to foray into the sector as a full time professional.
Saroj then worked in an interior design firm located outside the state for some time.
After returning to Manipur in 2015, she rented a small room in Moirang and started working by taking up small projects.
She then opened the SR Design office in Chingmeirong.
Recalling her first project in the state, she said that she took up the project of designing 'Nikheel Cafe' in Thangmeiband.
She slowly gained some recognition and so far, has worked as the interior designer for Tanishq showroom, World of Titan, Titan Eye Plus, Trade Lane, etc, apart from taking up projects for private residences.
Currently, she is working alongside 30/40 people including one structure engineer and two architects.
"Previously, 'interior design' was considered as part of luxurious lifestyle in the state.
Deadlines were hard to meet as the work could not be done with the masons.
In addition, both the society and family often misunderstand working women", she said, while recounting that she faced opposition from her family during the initial stages.
"However, my husband fully supported me, which helps me achieve success.
Now, my entire family is very supportive of me", she added.
Recalling that there were no interior design firms or any value for same during 2015-16; Saroj observed that the field has gained momentum in the last 4/5 years.
Apart from the many changes, the number of projects has also gone up and the interior design market in the state is expanding on daily basis, she stated.
"Interior design is a humble profession and is a good career option for students.
One can pursue the course immediately after Class XII and step into the profession after completing a Bachelor or Master degree, either outside the state or in the state," she explained.