Arianna Castro Tafur

What has your experience been like studying Master's in Interior Design at IE so far? 

My experience at IE has been incredibly enriching and dynamic. The program constantly challenges me to think beyond aesthetics and consider the emotional, social, and functional impact of spaces. Being in Madrid adds another layer of inspiration, as the city itself becomes part of the learning process.  

How has the program changed the way you think about space and design?

It has completely transformed my perspective. I now approach design as a multidisciplinary practice that integrates storytelling, human behavior, and sustainability. I’ve learned to design with intention, considering not only how a space looks but how it feels and functions for those who experience it. 

Can you tell us about a project you’re especially proud of? What made it meaningful to you? 

One project I’m especially proud of is Trama, a Culinary Hub located in Mercado Antón Martín, which I developed during Design Studio II in the second term. The project explores a new perspective on the richness of Spanish cuisine by transforming it into a more sensory experience, allowing users to engage more deeply with ingredients and understand the entire purchasing process. 

It was especially meaningful to me because it gave me the opportunity to connect with and learn from the local culture in a much deeper way. Through this project, I was able to immerse myself in Madrid’s food traditions and translate that cultural richness into a spatial experience. It challenged me both creatively and technically, pushing me to develop a concept that is not only visually engaging but also experiential and culturally rooted.  

What role does sustainability or wellbeing play in your projects? 

Sustainability and wellbeing have become key in how I approach design, especially through what I learned in Spaces of Exchange. I’ve come to understand that design is not just about how a space looks, but how it makes you feel and the impact it has on your emotions and behavior.  

It also made me more aware of the responsibility designers have in shaping those experiences. Through visits and real projects, I was able to see how sustainability is applied in practice, which made the whole process feel more real and intentional. 

What has been the biggest challenge for you in the program, and how have you handled it? 

One of the biggest challenges for me has been keeping up with the pace of learning so many new skills at once. Throughout the program, I’ve had to quickly adapt to 3D software I wasn’t familiar with before, as well as hands-on techniques like woodworking and laser cutting. Managing all of this simultaneously was definitely challenging. 

Because of that, staying organized and managing my time became essential. Over time, I’ve learned how to balance different types of work and approach new tools with more confidence. This experience has pushed me to grow both technically and personally, and made me much more adaptable in my process. 

What advice would you give to someone thinking about applying to the Master's in Interior Design?

I would say be open and curious. The program is designed to expose you to many different areas of design, so being willing to explore and step out of your comfort zone is key. It’s also incredibly enriching to be surrounded by people from different backgrounds and nationalities, as they bring completely new perspectives that really expand the way you think and design.