Are you passionate about turning ordinary spaces into beautiful, functional environments? Do you love creativity, colors, and spatial arrangements? If so, a career in interior design may be the perfect fit for you. And there’s no better time to begin than after Class 12. With its vibrant design culture and top-tier educational institutions, Delhi is an ideal place to start your journey.
This complete guide explores everything you need to know about enrolling in an Interior Design course in Delhi after 12th—from course types and eligibility to career opportunities, top colleges, and why Delhi is the best city to start your creative future.
? What Is Interior Design?
Interior design is the art and science of enhancing indoor spaces to make them aesthetically pleasing, safe, and functional. It goes beyond decoration—interior designers work with spatial layout, materials, lighting, textures, and even psychology to craft spaces for homes, offices, hotels, and commercial establishments.
An interior design course teaches you how to design spaces based on:
Client needs and preferences
Architectural layout
Safety and ergonomic standards
Functionality and style
? Why Choose an Interior Design Course After 12th?
Starting early gives you a strong foundation in design, helping you build the essential skills needed to stand out. Here’s why it’s a smart move:
?? Start your career early: Begin working as a professional designer by your early 20s.
? Develop core creative skills: Learn drawing, space planning, material selection, and visualization techniques.
? Access internships and projects: Start building a portfolio through live projects.
? Explore diverse career paths: From residential design to commercial interiors and set designing.
? Types of Interior Design Courses Available After 12th
1. Diploma in Interior Designing
Duration: 1–2 years
Best for: Quick entry into the design industry
Focus: Practical training, software tools, space planning
Eligibility: 10+2 in any stream
2. Bachelor of Design (B.Des) in Interior Design
Duration: 4 years
Offers: Comprehensive design education + specializations
Affiliated with: UGC-recognized universities or private design institutes
3. Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Interior Design
Duration: 3 years
Combines: Design theory + scientific approach (lighting, materials, etc.)
4. Certificate Courses
Duration: 6 months – 1 year
Ideal for: Specializing in software like AutoCAD, 3Ds Max, or interior styling
? Top Interior Design Institutes in Delhi
Here are some reputed colleges and institutes offering interior design courses in Delhi:
1. National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Delhi
Program: B.Des in Fashion & Lifestyle Accessory (includes spatial and interior elements)
Entrance: NIFT Entrance Exam
Government institute with global recognition
2. Pearl Academy, Delhi (West Campus & South Campus)
Courses: B.Des in Interior & Spatial Design
Features: International tie-ups, advanced design labs, and live projects
Admission: Pearl Academy entrance test + interview
3. Amity School of Fine Arts, Noida
Courses: B.Des in Interior Design, BFA in Interior Decoration
Known for: Strong placement support and modern campus
Admission: Direct or through Amity Design Test
4. JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Delhi
Courses: Diploma, BSc, and Certificate courses in Interior Design
Hands-on training and collaborations with interior firms
5. IMS Design & Innovation Academy (IMS DIA), Noida
Courses: B.Sc and Diploma in Interior Design
Affiliated with UGC-recognized universities and known for real-world exposure
✅ Eligibility Criteria
To enroll in an interior design course after 12th, here are the basic requirements:
Passed 10+2 from a recognized board (any stream: Arts, Commerce, Science)
Minimum 50% aggregate (may vary by college)
Entrance test (for some institutes like NIFT, Pearl)
Portfolio submission or interview (in creative-focused institutes)
?? What You’ll Learn in an Interior Design Course
Interior design programs are comprehensive and cover the following areas:
Core Subjects:
Design Principles & Elements
Space Planning & Ergonomics
Drawing, Sketching & Drafting
Computer-Aided Design (CAD, SketchUp, 3Ds Max)
Materials & Finishes
Lighting Design
Furniture Design
Color Theory & Interior Styling
Building Codes and Safety Regulations
Practical Skills:
Model-making
Portfolio development
Real-client projects
Studio assignments
Internship and site visits
? Career Opportunities After Interior Design Course
Delhi's booming real estate, architecture, and home decor industries mean interior designers are in high demand. After completing your course, you can pursue careers in:
| Career Role | Work Setting |
|---|---|
| Interior Designer | Design studios, architecture firms |
| Space Planner | Corporate offices, commercial spaces |
| Furniture Designer | Custom furniture studios, showrooms |
| Set Designer | TV, films, and theatre |
| Interior Stylist | Editorial shoots, showrooms |
| Freelance Designer | Independent or home office setup |
| Visual Merchandiser | Retail chains and malls |
You can also launch your own studio or collaborate with builders and realtors for residential projects.
Skills You'll Develop
An interior design course focuses on developing both creative and technical skills, such as:
Spatial visualization and proportion
Client communication and presentations
Design software proficiency
Creative problem-solving
Project budgeting and management
Collaboration with architects and contractors
These skills are transferable and valuable across design, architecture, and retail sectors.
? Why Delhi is the Best City to Study Interior Design
?️ Design and Architecture Hub: Home to design expos, real estate firms, and architecture consultancies
?? Creative Culture: Design festivals, exhibitions, and museums to inspire learners
? Growing demand for interior designers in Delhi NCR due to residential and commercial development
? Plenty of internship opportunities with renowned firms like Livspace, UrbanClap (Urban Company), or DLF
? Networking with industry experts through seminars, alumni meets, and competitions
? How to Get Started
Shortlist colleges based on courses, fees, and facilities
Prepare for entrance tests, if required
Start a design portfolio with your sketches or mood boards
Apply online or offline and attend interviews
Visit campuses (if possible) to assess infrastructure and meet faculty
? Final Thoughts
Starting an interior design course in Delhi after 12th is a great way to combine creativity with a meaningful, high-potential career. The field offers endless opportunities—from designing elegant homes to chic offices, from luxurious hotels to immersive set designs.
With the right education and hands-on exposure, you’ll be ready to turn your passion into a profession—and transform the way people live and experience spaces.
