Background

Growing up as the youngest in a large family, I quickly learned the importance of making the most with small spaces. In our crowded home, every inch of space counted, and I became fascinated by the idea of designing products that could maximize functionality in very limited areas. As I grew older, this fascination turned into a passion, and I began to focus my studies on product design with a specific emphasis on designing for small spaces. This fuelled my determination to create products that could not only improve people’s lives by making the most of limited space but making them multifunctional too. A great example of this is when I designed a multifunction storage system out of aluminium extruded components, for those that lack storage in a small room, it could function as a step and a seat. This project involved going to an Aluminium Extrusion factory and looking at how the machinery works. And with the use of Granta Edupack, it had also given me a better idea of the use of aluminium within the design industry

Anotherimportant factor that has influenced me is my South Asian heritage. I began to realize that there was a lack of representation and incorporation of South Asian design elements in the mainstream product design industry. This motivated me to strive to bring a unique perspective and cultural diversity to the field of product design. This was evidenced in my product for the Star Pack brief in which I created a multifunctional injection moulded packaging based on South Asian cuisine.

As a designer, I am Influenced by many different factors, which all directly or indirectly affect my design choices. I would say a big influence is a multifunctional design where function is prioritized well over the form and aesthetic. As a product designer the more functions your product has, means the relationship between the user and the product will be stronger. This will form a bond between the user and the designer.

My biggest influence as a designer would most likely be Dieter Rams. He is a highly influential industrial designer, known for his minimalistic designs and his “Less but Better” philosophy. His approach to design focuses on simplicity, functionality, and longevity, and he has been a vocal advocate for responsible design and sustainability. As a designer, I value his philosophy and his advocation for responsible design and I aspire to have a career similar to his.