Top Interior Design Colleges in India in 2026

The future of space is design driven. In 2026, interior design isn’t just about arranging furniture—it’s about transforming spaces into intelligent, aesthetic, and functional environments. From post-pandemic home upgrades to luxury commercial spaces and sustainable living solutions, the demand for interior designers has skyrocketed globally—and India is at the forefront of this boom.

India's real estate market is expected to reach $1 trillion by 2030, and with urban migration, co-living, retail expansion, and hospitality growth, the need for creative professionals who can design adaptable, sustainable, and stylish interiors has never been greater.

In this blog, we will delve into the details of the top interior design colleges in India in 2026 you can study from to realise your dreams of being part of one of the most booming industries in India.

What is Interior Design and Why Choose It as a Career?

Interior design is the art and science of enhancing the interiors of a space to make it functional, aesthetically appealing, and aligned with the needs of the occupants. It goes beyond décor—professional interior designers work with lighting, materials, spatial planning, environmental sustainability, and even user psychology. Here’s a complete guide on how to become an interior designer in India.

Scope of Interior Design in India in 2026

In today’s world, every space tells a story. Interior designers are hired not just for homes, but also for:

• Residential Design – Flats, villas, modular kitchens, renovations
• Commercial Spaces – Offices, retail outlets, co-working hubs
• Hospitality & Event Spaces – Hotels, restaurants, exhibition venues
• Set Design & Styling – Film, OTT platforms, ad shoots, theatre
• Healthcare & Institutional Design – Clinics, hospitals, schools
• Furniture & Lighting Design – As niche specialisations within interiors

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Interior Design College (2026)

Choosing the right institute can make or break your design career. Here are the top factors to evaluate:

Top Private Interior Design Colleges in India (2026)

These private institutes are known for cutting-edge design curriculums, modern studios, international collaborations, and strong placement records.

Top Government Interior Design Colleges in India (2026)

These public institutes offer affordable, highly reputed programs with competitive entrance exams.

Top Interior Design Colleges in India’s Metropolitan Cities

If you are someone dwelling in India’s top metropolitan cities and do not wish to relocate, or those who wish to leave their small towns and move to bigger cities for better exposure and opportunities, here’s a list of top interior design colleges in India’s metropolitan cities to pursue your interior designing dreams from:

Delhi NCR

• Pearl Academy (Delhi) – Renowned for global exposure & strong portfolio training
• Amity University (Noida) – Modern infrastructure and placement tie-ups
• NIFT Delhi (Spatial Design electives) – Government institute with creativity-focused pedagogy

For a deeper comparison of fees, entrance exams, placements, and campus infrastructure, explore our dedicated guide on top interior design colleges in Delhi.

Mumbai

• Pearl Academy (Delhi) – Renowned for global exposure & strong portfolio training
• Raffles Design International – International faculty and curriculum
• L.S. Raheja School of Architecture – Diploma and degree programs
• NIFT Mumbai – Government option with focus on interiors in fashion

Bangalore

• Pearl Academy (Delhi) – Renowned for global exposure & strong portfolio training
• Vogue Institute of Art & Design – Strong industry collaboration
• JD Institute – Well-known design school offering practical experience

Pune

• MIT Institute of Design – Holistic design thinking & workshops
• FLAME University – Liberal arts approach with spatial design electives

Ahmedabad

• CEPT University – Top-notch interior architecture program
• NID Ahmedabad – Elite institute for furniture & interior environments

Top Interior Design Entrance Exams in India (2026)

As students interested in pursuing interior design, here’s a list of interior design entrance exams they must be aware of and prepare themselves of:

Pro Tip: Most top colleges require a portfolio review and interview round, so start building a strong portfolio early. Here are some commonly asked interior design interview questions to help you prepare.

Interior Design Courses Offered in India

Students looking to make a career in interior design can pave a good way to the top with a credible degree. Discover the best interior design courses after 12th, their eligibility, and career prospects in this detailed guide.

Here’s a list of interior design courses offered in India students can choose from:

Career Opportunities & Placement Overview

Graduates from top interior design colleges in India can work in:

The scope of interior designing is expansive and imbued with creativity. You really can transform a place into something mesmerising. Trust us, the client would thank you most heartedly.

Pearl Academy and Interior Design

Pearl Academy offers industry-ready programs in Interior Architecture and Design at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The B.Des program blends creativity, sustainability, and technical expertise—ideal for aspiring interior designers.

The M.Des program, open to graduates from any stream, builds advanced skills in spatial strategies, materials, and design software, preparing students for leadership in interior environments.

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Conclusion

Interior design blends creativity, technology, and human-centred thinking — and the right college is your launchpad. Whether you’re aiming for a globally renowned institute like Pearl Academy or looking for an affordable government college, the journey starts with awareness, preparation, and a passion for space transformation.