December 17, 2025, in the Koramangala Club Auditorium, Bangalore-the JD School of Design had got the much-awaited Design Futures Summit 2024 as a ‘power confluence’ of design gurus who framed the way to perceive fashion and interior design worlds. It was a grand meeting of the three brilliant minds- Prof. Aditya Jayadas, Mr. Sounak Sen Barat, and Ms. Prithvi R. N.—for a fruitful discussion on philosophies driving their design practices and how the challenges were turned into opportunities for them in their respective fields.

The event began with a stirring address by Prof. Aditya Jayadas Associate Professor of Oklahoma State University where he shared his expertise relating to human factors, ergonomics, and biophilic design. In product, anthropology, and biomechanics work, he helped establish how we think about designs for spaces that are practical enough but also enhance the relationships between human beings and the environment to be better. Prof Jayadas focused on products and human and environment-based environments, focusing purely on human needs rather than merely their look or face. 

It was now the fashion world that stepped into the limelight as the Creative Director and Founder of House of Three, Mr Sounak Sen Barat, entered the dais with two decades of experience in Indian fashion and a story that narrates a journey of creativity, cultural appreciation, and a very unique sartorial vision that is not so different from Western but, for sure, has its soul – distinctly Indian. His session was a beautiful exercise in how design can go beyond the trends of the moment and reflect the identity of culture and dynamics in modern design. Having done it from brand creation to styling, his insight was a masterclass on blending tradition with innovation.

The event also hosted Ms. Prithvi R. N., Associate Director of Livspace, presenting an experience in interior designing and business excellence that adds another dimension to a discussion. With more than 50 homes designed throughout his career and huge revenues handled, Prithvi integrates innovation with strategic growth through design. She journeyed from entrepreneurship to leading design projects at Livspace. Her story said much about the importance of design thinking for both creative and commercial success. She spoke very passionately about how interior design impacts not just aesthetics but also emotional and functional well-being in a space.

This collaboration between JD School of Design and Oklahoma State University (OSU) brought to life a thought-provoking summit that transcended boundaries in design. The students shared how they have transformed respective industries not only with skill but with a deep understanding of the human experience and, indeed, the world around them. The summit was a celebration of the power of design to change perspectives, enhance lives, and define the future. 

As the event came to a close, attendees were left with a renewed sense of inspiration, armed with the knowledge that design is not just about creating—it’s about transforming. Through thoughtful, innovative, and strategic design, we can turn challenges into opportunities and create a world that is as functional as it is beautiful.