Have you just finished an interior design course? Then, the actual work will start after the study phase. This field is constantly changing, and you have to see and hear what the trends are during your studies and after the profession if you want to be relevant.
The interior design course in Ahmedabad you choose should help you understand the latest trends and explore opportunities to advance your career in interior design.
The present blog depicts the latest trends in Indian interior design and how they can be integrated into your work as a student and as a professional. If you have pursued an interior design course, then these insights will be helpful in your final projects and to win over clients later.
1. Earthy Tones & Textured Finishes Making a Comeback
In 2025-26, India’s warm, earthy color palettes are dominating: terracotta, mustard, rust, olive, deep rust-brown, sand, etc.
Alongside color, walls and ceilings are no longer smooth, white, or flat laminated surfaces. Textured finishes, such as lime wash, clay paint, stone cladding, and decorative putties, are being used to expressiveness and bring a natural warmth.
What to do as a student / fresh graduate:
- When doing projects, experiment with sample panels showing texture (e.g., clay plaster or limewash) so you understand material behavior and cost.
- Include earthy palettes in your presentation boards. Clients in Ahmedabad often appreciate color tones that respond well to strong sunlight. Nowadays, it is essential to practice shading/lighting effects to create the best space.
2. Biophilic Design & Indoor-Outdoor Integration
The connection to nature in houses across India is becoming stronger and stronger: indoor plants, vertical gardens, green walls, large windows, and sliding glass doors.
Biophilic design is not only about aesthetics; it also offers advantages in terms of thermal comfort, ventilation, and mental wellness. The utilization of natural light, ventilation, and landscaping is even being done during the design phase of the project.
Student / Graduate Tip:
- In your assignments or portfolios, include cross-section/elevation drawings that highlight placements of shrubs and trees, as well as the provision of daylight through the structure.
- Identify the local plants that can be grown indoors or on terraces. Understanding the factors of climate and orientation will make your designs more functional and CPD relevant.
3. Sustainable Materials, Local Craft & ‘Indo-Contemporary’ Fusion
The demand for sustainability is increasing: eco-friendly materials, reclaimed wood, low-VOC paints, and products with lower thermal conductivity are some of the things that are being preferred.
Along with that, the contributions of traditional Indian craftsmanship and local artists (jaali screens, block printing, brass, terracotta, carved wood) are combined with the modern aesthetics (clean lines, minimal structure), resulting in something both recognizable and rooted. The Indo-contemporary style renders interior spaces as simultaneously modern as well as deeply Indian.
What students should practice:
- Getting materials from local sources, visiting craftsmen’s workshops, and learning about the cost and durability of traditional materials in modern contexts are some of the things that should be done.
- In portfolio work for the interior design course in Ahmedabad, always have one project that is based on local art, which will show you know about regional identity, climate, and culture.
4. Multi-Functional Spaces & Flexible Layouts
Because of urban limitations (smaller apartments, shared spaces), the concept of rooms or furniture serving more than one function is gaining importance. For instance, foldable furniture, hidden storage, convertible partitions, rooms that can serve work + rest + living functions.
Designers are also looking at flexible spatial planning: plan for reconfiguration, modular furniture, and adaptable lighting. Students have to learn about circulation, usage patterns, and ergonomics.
5. Statement Lighting, Curves, & Ceilings as Fifth Wall
Light fixtures are no longer merely functional; they are focal “sculptural” elements. Pendant lights, chandeliers, and custom lighting that react to mood or time of day.
Curved furniture, arches, and soft edges are taking over from harsh straight lines; ceilings are being treated (wooden battens, textured ceilings, decorative false ceiling work) as significant surfaces.
In your work:
- When completing your final project (or internship), suggest a lighting system that has layers (ambient + task + accent) and demonstrate the interaction of lighting with furniture & color.
- Draw or create a model of curved pieces or treated ceilings to prove that you can think beyond flat, rectangular spaces.
6. Smart Technology & AI-Assisted Design
The smart home integration (like automation, sensors, app-based control of lighting, AC, and security) is gradually becoming more popular in India.
On the AI side, the use of visualization tools (3D renders, VR/AR, generative AI) is increasing in both academia and professional practice. The tools are used in material selection, layout planning, and client presentations, among others. Skill-build for the future:
- Learn one or more visualization tools (SketchUp, Revit, 3ds Max, or newer AI/VR tools).
- Understand the basics of automation or smart sensors so you can propose intelligent systems in home design.
Conclusion
If you’ve done an interior design course in Ahmedabad, adopting these trends throughout the course (in the studio assignments, thesis, and internship) will be very advantageous to you. When you finish the course and start to work with clients or firms, these are the exact design directions the market is moving toward. Having previous experience will assist you in providing both thought-leadership and relevance.
At Kalapurnam Institute, we train not only in the existing styles but also prepare you to shape the future of interior design. Would you like to receive hands-on feedback on your portfolio or investigate how these trends can become your signature? Come along with us and let your designs communicate in the language of tomorrow.
