^{By: Andro Bonoan}

My journey with Hurray stems back to the summer of 2017 as a young intern for Heim Interiors prior to the start of my interior design degree. I came in with a set goal in mind: to explore the endless possibilities of interior design through “design made happy.” Fast forward to 2020, I am now a senior at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in my practicum term. What drew me to come back to Hurray as an intern was the hands-on learning experiences and the one-of-a-kind training program based on their step-by-step design process from Ms. Rossy and her talented team of diverse designers.

Despite the WFH circumstances due to the pandemic, my online internship with Hurray was still more than what I had expected beyond ordinary. Here are the three key learnings I’d like to share that I’ve gained throughout my internship:

1. Ideation - Design concepts derive from analysis and user-centered approaches

From a single idea to tangible sketches, mood boards, and layouts, I was trained to ideate from a user-centric perspective. Concepts stem from collecting data and analyzing how people interact with space. The SD team taught me how to visualize based on a hands-on collaborative thought process that involves questionnaires and observations from what a client needs and even thinks. The smallest of details observed can make the most significant impacts in the initial stages.

2. Collaboration - Team effort is the key to execution

Construction is a collaborative process between the client, interior designer, architect, contractor, and even suppliers. Under both the SD and FF&E teams, I got to connect with local and international premium brands such as Toyama Inc., Scavolini, Porcelanosa, Kawajun, HD Golf Hongkong, and Pianca & Partners Milano. I was able to learn how collaboration plays its roles in both design and construction phases. Craftsmanship and design are a long term investment.

3. Technicality - Foundation skills matter the most

To quote Ms Rossy, “technical drafting is designing.” Under the Technical team, I focused on my technical skills and deepened my understanding of how construction drawings are produced. Construction drawings and plans are the foundation skills of an interior designer and architect to execute projects successfully, not just concepts and 3D renders. Young designers must learn to love construction and find ways to immerse themselves in the field!

For those who plan to intern for Hurray, I encourage you to take full advantage of the exposure that you won’t receive in school. Be open to corrections and criticisms as part of the guidance you’ll be receiving! Allow yourself to be flexible to learn new things. It’s an opportunity of a lifetime to grow and develop your skills as a designer! Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the experience!!

“My time as an intern may be over, but my growth and learning will continue.”

My time as an intern may be over, but my growth and learning will continue. From my “design made happy” foundations to “beyond ordinary” training, I can proudly say that I have sincerely found my passion and calling. Not all students will have the opportunity to receive premium and hands-on training twice from one of the top design firms. I also apply and share these experiences with my co-students at school through conceptualizing student-initiated organization projects to create learning opportunities for others as future interior designers.

I started my journey as an Interior Design student with Heim Interiors, and now I’m ending it with Hurray Design. Thank you for everything Hurray!

^{Article cover by Pat Yambao}

Hurray Internships: An Experience Beyond Ordinary