Interior Design 2024

2024 Interior Design

Welcome

I am delighted to be writing an introduction for our final year interior design students’ end of year book, here at De Montfort University Leicester (DMU). The class of 2024 have been a pleasure to teach and it has been an exciting year seeing them grow as designers, developing their design knowledge and confidence and preparing for the next chapter, working in design or studying at a higher level.

The final year students have connected well as a year group, providing a support network to each other and have developed a strong work ethic, many being described as ‘residents’ within our design studio. This continual effort and strive to achieve is reflected in the final design outcomes demonstrating that our soon-to-be graduating students are industry-ready.

The Major Design Projects (selected by students) this year have covered a variety of ambitious topics such as spaces which embrace AI technology, the continual challenge of how to live in a more sustainable world (including reducing fast fashion and dietary changes) and projects of a more light-hearted nature which still have a strong message. The projects span the field of Interior Design looking at the realms of hospitality, leisure, education, exhibition, workplace and wellbeing. These projects demonstrate the range of students’ personal interests and design ambitions coupled with the ability to work within complex self-selected buildings, repurposed to create new and exciting environments with the audience at the forefront of each one.

It has been an absolute privilege to be part of the students’ learning experience and their final year design journey at DMU and on behalf of the Interior Design programme team we would like to congratulate our final year students on their achievements and wish them all the best for a bright and successful future working in the field of Interior Design.

Nicky Harding

Class of 2024

Arusah Ahmed

Bushra Akhtar

Aisha Al Juma

Amita Benedict

Amelia Brear

Adelina Briceva

Tyrick Clarke

Veridiana Cocut

Adam Collins

Molly Crosby

Amelia Dawson

Ewa Dziurka

Roqaya Ed-Denguir

Mina Ertugrul

Mary Shenula Fernando

Phoebe Graham

Samanta Grinberga

Marina Gutierrez Jimenez

Emmie Hill

Sandhya Jignesh

Jiwon Jung

Safia Kaji

Julia Kurowska

Romana Lis

Sharon Mayambu

Alan Mohammadian

Michelle Nikita

Ola Oji

Kajol Padhiar

Shruti Patel

Dominika Pawenta

Nikol Pencheva

Ayesha Rangara

Nafisa Saddiqaa

Kadie Sterling

Bhaavni Suresh Nair

Jamie Swain

Charlotte Towe

Saynab Warsame

Scarlet Yaselga

Zainab Zacky

Zuzanna Zalewska

Christia Zorpa

Arusah Ahmed

SHI Student Housing International

Student accommodation for undergrad Level 4 and postgrad international students. It has a library, gym and food court. This provides convenient access to a variety of dining options, saving students time and effort in meal preparation. The food court serves as a social hub where students can gather, dine together, and converse. This fosters a sense of community within the accommodation facility, allowing students to form friendships and build supportive networks.

Email: Arusahahmed@outlook.com

Bushra Akhtar

The Potter’s Wheel

The Potter’s Wheel project draws inspiration from the timeless allure of pottery, celebrating its simplicity and inherent beauty. Located in the heart of Leicester city centre, our building serves to nurture creativity and expand horizons in the realm of ceramic artistry.

With a mission to inspire and empower, our project offers individuals a platform to explore and elevate their skills. The Potter’s Wheel invites all to embark on a journey of discovery and self-expression through the art of pottery.

Email: Bushrarey@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Bushra Akhtar

Instagram: @bushra22_design

Aisha Al Juma

GAZELLE

Maternity and Motherhood Centre

Gazelle Maternity and Motherhood Centre is a comprehensive facility dedicated to supporting expectant and new mothers throughout their journey into parenthood. Located in Leicester, the centre is designed to offer a nurturing and inclusive environment that addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of mothers and infants.

LinkedIn: Aisha Mahfoodh Aljuma

Amita Benedict

The Royal Readers

The Royal Readers is a culturally influenced and fantasy inspired book café, aimed at book lovers and those who use reading as a form of escapism into a whole new world. The space provides comfortable independent and group reading areas for any workshops and book clubs, a café that allows people to indulge in cultural food as well as events being put on such as themed balls.

Email: benedictamita@gmail.com

Amelia Brear

Nook Beyond The Words

The aim of the project is to create a place that promotes the joy of reading and writing, specifically targeted at underprivileged youth to help bridge the educational gap in society. The space contains various activities including workshops, areas to work, relax and socialise. Having a range of learning activities is designed to help motivate and keep users engaged, so they are more likely to stay longer and benefit from the space further.

Email: ameliakate1802@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Amelia Brear

Adelina Briceva

The Delight Oven

‘The Delight Oven’ is a project that is perfect for people who enjoy socialising with friends or family while having fresh pastry, on the go or in the cafe. Young adults who have an interest in baking, can learn to bake simple pastry or fresh bread from scratch and understand ‘per portions’ to be aware of cost of living, this is ideal for students who overspend on excess food bills from supermarkets.

Email: Adelina.Briceva@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Adelina Briceva

Pinterest: Adelina Briceva (adelabriceva)

Tyrick Clarke

ELITE GYM AND SPA

Nestled in the heart of Leicester City Centre, Elite Gym and Spa is the epitome of wellness and fitness, offering a comprehensive and sophisticated experience for all. State-of-the-art facilities cater for individual and group fitness, an include dance studio and in-house mini spa. Whether you’re looking to achieve fitness goals, find a moment of relaxation, or enjoy a luxurious escape from the everyday, our gym is your premier destination for health, wellness, and indulgence.

Email: tyrickClarke@hotmail.co.uk

Veridiana Cocut

Laugh Out Loud: A Hilarious Adventure

“Laugh Out Loud: A Hilarious Adventure” is a captivating comedy-filled journey that takes place in Leicester in collaboration with Leicester Comedy Festival. Rooted in the belief that laughter is therapeutic and can help people escape the stresses of modern life, the project merges comedy, workshops, and innovative technology to create an immersive and joyful experience that promotes mental well-being.

Email: cocutveridiana91@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Veridiana Cocut

Instagram: @veridiana_2d3d_sketchbook

Adam Collins

Skein2Skin

Skein2Skin is a slow-fashion crochet brand dedicated to promoting a slow and sustainable lifestyle through fashion. This flagship store serves as a beacon of hope in the face of the environmentally detrimental fashion industry. It provides a sustainable alternative, sourcing wool directly from sheep farms in the UK. Skein2Skin celebrates the intricate craftsmanship and artistry of crochet. The store features a retail space, couture exhibition and design studio, and an organic, locally sourced eatery.

Email: adammcoll08@outlook.com

LinkedIn: Adam Collins

Instagram: @adammarcuscollins

Molly Crosby

The Astley Cheetham’s Museum

The Astley Cheetham’s museum is a multi-purpose space which will keep this historical building at the heart of the local community and surrounding areas. Its main purpose is to educate children and adults about the history of Stalybridge and how it was born from the cotton mill industry. A place to explore, learn and play, visitors will receive a range of experiences which will build on their local knowledge and that of the Victorian era.

Email: mollycrosby19@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Molly Crosby

Amelia Dawson

SERATONINN

Lack of wellbeing leisure facilities for those who suffer with mental health issues is a problem in Hinckley that needs to be addressed. This project provides a new space and opportunities for enjoyment influenced by Japanese minimalist design principles. Unlike western cultures, Japan embraces the concept of wellbeing by incorporating ancient philosophies like Wabi-Sabi and Ikigai into their daily life. By utilising these in the redesign, customers can learn and adopt these practices.

Email: ameliadawson99@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Amelia Dawson

Ewa Dziurka

Program Panacea

Despite advancements in medicine, a large portion of the population continues to face challenges in accessing suitable healthcare facilities to combat chronic illnesses. Tailored to meet this need, Panacea stands as the premier destination for comprehensive care. Within this medical centre, each visitor has the opportunity to engage in personalized consultations with specialized practitioners. The facility offers the convenience of virtual interactions through designated hubs, facilitating seamless communication with experts worldwide.

Email: e.a.dziurka@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Eva Dziurka

Roqaya Ed-Denguir

HAYAT HOUSE

Hayat, an Accommodation and Housing Support Centre tailored for single female professionals facing socio-economic challenges, redefines the concept of shared housing. Its mission goes beyond mere shelter, aiming to empower women’s financial independence and promote enduring social bonds. At its core, Hayat’s residential quarters serve as a hub for nurturing deep connections within respectful boundaries, creating a supportive environment where women can thrive and forge positive change in today’s society.

LinkedIn: Roqaya Ed-Denguir

Instagram: @RE.DESIGNSTUDIO

Mina Ertugrul

AURAVIDA

Auravida is a meditation hotel designed to solves subconscious problems through interior design. It welcomes everyone but mostly targets people in their 20s to 40s who are adjusting to changes in their lives or stress from daily life. Along with a sponsored tea area, restaurant, and guest rooms, the hotel offers three different sorts of meditation rooms: sound, colour, and sky. Each style of room is tailored to the guest’s aura for a transforming experience.

Email: minaertugrul@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Mina Ertugrul

Instagram: @minaertugrulinteriors

Mary Shenula Fernando

INSPIRE

INSPIRE is a conceptual proposal for an Arts & Design Library developed on the fundamental principles of Surrealism, with the vision of creating an environment that inspires a strong emotional engagement with the act of reading or exploring for knowledge. The project is centred around stimulating a curiosity for learning by designing intriguing atmospheres as well as attempting to invent a more multi-faceted learning hub that imparts knowledge in a wide variety of ways.

Email: shenulafernando2002@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Shenula Fernando

Phoebe Graham

Khitin

Khitin - The Bug Bar- is a cocktail and tapas bar completely themed on and inspired by insect habitats. Through its insect tapas and themed drinks, it aims to promote entomophagy (eating insects) as a more sustainable life choice. The interior design is based on biophilia which plays a key role on creating an immersive and sensory experience.

Email: phoebeg1423@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Phoebe Graham

Instagram: @phoebe_interiors

Marina Gutierrez Jimenez

Evolve

Evolve is a High-Performance snow sports centre aimed for athletes who practice different snow sports disciplines. The aim of this project is to provide an all-year-round space for athletes to train in the best and most similar conditions to the slopes. This facility features innovative technologies and sport specific equipment, as well as services such as physiotherapy, nutrition and a fuel bar.

Email: m.gutierrez.jimenez@hotmail.com

LinkedIn: Marina Gutierrez Jimenez

Instagram: @marinag.interiors

Flickr: m.gutierrez.jimenez

Emmie Hill

Bright Beginnings

Bright Beginnings is a space tailored to the specific needs of autistic children, creating comfort and safety for the children to develop skills for equal opportunities in later life. Inspired by nature and mirroring the children’s story “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” by Michael Rosen, the space provides a personalized experience for every child, accommodating their individual triggers while encouraging them to push boundaries and make their own decisions on the route they want to take through the space.

Email: emmie-mae-hill@hotmail.com

LinkedIn: Emmie Hill

Instagram: @emmiemae.interiors

Sandhya Jignesh

RSPB Workplace

The RSPB workplace effectively integrates progressive elements of design with the organization’s mission of conserving birds.

Based on the fundamental principles of the RSPB, the workplace is an environment of sustainability and nature connection. The concept allows employees to work towards a common objective of preserving birds and their habitats by not only creating a practical and motivating work environment but also by reinforcing the organization’s mission, values, and identity.

Email: sandhyajignesh3@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Sandhya Jignesh

Instagram: @sjs_interiorss

Jiwon Jung

Shicha

This project aims to establish a Korean Culture Experience Centre in the UK, promoting sustainability in tourism while preserving Korea’s heritage. The centre provides a variety of cultural experiences, including Korean tea ceremonies, calligraphy workshops, and cooking classes. Encouraging greater interest in Korean culture by collaborating with Korean institutions and community groups to promote cultural exchange, it will contribute to the local economy and the tourism industry.

Email: JiwonJungDesigns@gmail.com

LI: Jiwon Jung

Safia Kaji

The Cheese Museum

The Cheese Museum is located in the Cultural Quarter within Leicester, which is the location known for its creative community, making it a great area to celebrate local dairy farmers. Additionally, Leicester is known for its Red Leicester cheese and this museum celebrates local dairy farmers as well as educating visitors of all ages about the process of how cheeses like Red Leicester are produced.

Email: Safiak_14@hotmail.com

LinkedIn: Safia Kaji

Julia Kurowska

CELESTITE SPA

A spa, located in the most unusual of places, right in the city centre. The aim is to provide working people with a unique, transformative experience of relaxation, Celestite Spa is there for those who seek retreat to focus on healing their mind, body and soul even during the busiest of days. Enhanced with the healing properties of an array of crystals, whether that’s visually or spiritually, 10 minutes or 90 minutes, anyone and everyone is welcome for a positive decompression of daily stress.

Email: interiors.02jk@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Julia Kurowska

Instagram: @_jk.interiors_

Romana Lis

The KOOŹNIA.pl project aims to create a space where everyone can obtain information, sign up for Polish language lessons, meet family or friends in a cafe and taste Polish snacks. The interior of KOOŹNIA. pl is intended to exude openness and a positive atmosphere for every visitor. The space combines a minimalist, modern look with the rich tradition of Polish folklore, which creates a unique and inspiring environment. Vibrant, rich colours and natural materials dominate here, which, combined with LED light, emphasises the sustainable and modern character of the place.

Email: romalis444@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Romana Lis

Instagram: @ romanalis_interiordesign

Alan Mohammadian

Friars Mill Community Centre

The Friars Mill Community Centre, located in Leicester’s city centre, is a historic mill that is part of the new waterside regeneration project. The mill houses a bar, a co-working space open to the community to work on various projects and a health centre, which includes a gym and professional nutrition advice services. The design scheme throughout the building pays homage to the building’s strong history within the hosiery trade based in Leicester.

Email: alanidesign01@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Alan Mohammadian Instagram: @alani_design1

Michelle Nikita

HEART AND SOLE

Heart and Sole is a community-focused retail project that aims to empower financially disadvantaged Leicester residents with accommodation and employment, while celebrating the lesser-known Leicester shoe manufacturing history. The project embraces industrial aesthetics and, through workshops open to patrons and rehabilitation open to residents, becomes a hub for local community growth and connection in Leicester.

LinkedIn: Michelle Nikita

Instagram: @mizini.interiors

A cultural centre dedicated to experiencing the NeoSoul music genre and educating people about its history. The design aesthetic is inspired by African architecture as a way to allow people to not only learn but connect with the space. The centre has a variety of facilities, including an exhibition, workshops and a live-performance bar.

Email: olanaomi@hotmail.co.uk

LinkedIn: Ola Oji

Kajol Padhiar

WonderGlow

WonderGlow is an educational skincare store where customers are provided with knowledge catered to their skin type and how products work. Wonderglow is in partnership with Ren Clean Skincare as they are an ethical brand who strive for their customers get the best product for their skin while helping the plant in the process. The store is located in Leicester on Market Street as the target audience is Millennials and Gen Z.

Email: Kajolpadhiar@gmail.com

Shruti Patel

Celestial Delight Restaurant

The ‘Celestial Delight Restaurant’ which gives a completely unique dining experience with celestial appearance and feel. As the customers enter first appearance is the planetarium align planets showcasing its main point of the restaurant.

Email: Shrutipravin123@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Shruti Patel

Dominika Pawenta

GO BY TRAIN

The project was designed to spark people’s enthusiasm for rail travel, especially throughout European countries. Go by Train blends elements of hospitality with an educational exhibition giving an opportunity to experience foreign cultures and cuisines as well as experience train travel in a completely unique way. Situated in the heart of Leicester, it caters to individuals who are enthusiastic about tourism and sustainability, as well as those who are open to learning new things.

Email: dominilka.w.pawenta@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Dominika Pawenta

Ayesha Rangara

New Horizon

New Horizon is a transformative project aiming to establish an empowerment hub in Leicester, UK. Designed to address the diverse needs of the community, the hub features three main zones: a vibrant community space with a café, an adult learning area offering professional advice and guidance, and a dedicated creche for childcare. Through thoughtful design and programming, New Horizon seeks to embrace unity, empowerment, and foster connection for all.

Email: ayeshar2003@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Ayesha Rangara

Nafisa Saddiqaa

BAZAAR

The indoor street food market offers visitors a captivating journey into a multicultural culinary landscape. With working rickshaws gracefully navigating the bustling market, guests are enveloped in an immersive cultural experience. From vibrant flavours to lively ambiance, every corner invite exploration and celebration of diverse traditions. It’s more than just a dining destination; it’s a sensory adventure that leaves a lasting impression on all who wander through its vibrant pathways.

Email: nafisasaddiqaa114@gmail.com

Kadie Sterling

Sanctum

Sanctum is an innovative mental health space that will subconsciously support individuals with their mental health in a non-traditional way through the use of immersive activities. Providing a sanctuary of warmth, in a community space, embracing natural materials surround by a tranquil location. The site allows visitors to take a break from everyday life and embrace their emotions.

Email: kadierosesterling@hotmail.co.uk

LinkedIn: Kadie Sterling

Jamie Swain

Botanical Enigma

Botanical Enigma takes inspiration from both the board game “Cluedo” and its ambience of traditional and rich colour design, as well as the organic movements and motifs found within botanical gardens. The concept of the design is that the traditionally designed interior and building is being overtaken by “root” which are large organic shapes that flow throughout each space.

Email: Jamieswain@icloud.com

LinkedIn: Jamie Swain

Instagram: @Jamieswain.interiors

Charlotte Towe

Parasoul

Parasoul provides a warm, inclusive, versatile and enjoyable setting, which offers a space where children can feel welcomed, secure and supported. Its mission is to bridge societal divides and promote children’s mental health and well-being. Parasoul is aimed at children ages 11-16 and embraces diversity and inclusion. It offers immersive experiences and opportunities for children to socialise and learn essential life skills after school and during the weekend.

Email: Charlotte.towe8@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Charlotte Towe

Saynab Warsame

The Golden Ages

“The Golden Ages” exhibition is a captivating journey through the rich heritage, cultural legacy, and enduring contributions of Islamic civilization. Within the exhibition walls is a treasury of art, history and architectural wonders that not only showcases the beauty and diversity of Islamic culture across the ages but also provides enriching experiences for visitors.

Email: saynab101@hotmail.co.uk

LinkedIn: Saynab Warsame

Scarlet Yaselga

CREATE WITH IMAGINATION

“Create With Imagination” will focus on creating a space to create makeup products made by natural ingredients, from their colour pigment. The store will provide information on how to develop the product. This will encourage people to create new makeup product in a more sustainable and creative way, helping the beauty industry being a better environmentally friendly with some fun and enjoyment added as an ingredient.

Email: scarletyv7@gmail.com

Zainab Zacky

TAKE/N is a workspace environment that stems from the ongoing contemporary discourse surrounding AI, questioning whether it will assume control or prove to be a beneficial factor. Embracing the positive narrative TAKE/N, taking the idea that AI can significantly enhance the design industry.

Email: zainabzacky@hotmail.co.uk

LinkedIn: Zainab Zacky TAKE/N

Zuzanna Zalewska

The Barn Restaurant is designed within the 15th century building, which highlights the whole design and context of the space. The rustic style showcases and binds together the flow of the bar and restaurant together with providing experience for visitors of the 15th century building.

Email: zuzannazalewska@yahoo.com

Christia Zorpa

MODA Swap

“MODA Swap” is a dynamic addition to the DMU campus, serving as a vibrant fashion events venue. Designed for fashion students from DMU and neighbouring institutions in Leicester and beyond, it offers a platform for showcasing creative works and fostering exchange opportunities. With a focus on regenerative fashion, the project aims to address the environmental and social impact of fast fashion, advocating for quality over quantity and promoting sustainability.

Email: christiazorpa23@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Christia Zorpa

Instagram: @christia.zrp

Web: https://christiazorpa23.wixsite.com/christie-zorpa

The Tutors

Stuart Wright Sam Williams

Ginny Petrie

Harriet Lazzeri

Brian Wealthall

Nathan Smith

Alex Stothard

Mathew Bethancourt

Nicky Harding

Pooja Shah

Design By Roqaya Ed-Denguir and Ayesha Rangara