“I’m on cloud nine” – Student Vicky Licha wins national award for nostalgic kitchen design

RMIT Vocational Education student Vicky Licha has cemented herself as a rising star in interior design as she prepares to graduate from her diploma.

Vicky has always had a strong creative drive and was drawn to art from a young age. Her interest in interior design came years later, when, like many people, she took up a new hobby during the pandemic.

“During COVID-19, I was living in a beautiful house with poor lighting, which made me acutely aware of how our surroundings affect our wellbeing, sparking my interest in interior design,” said Vicky.

She began her Diploma of Interior Design at RMIT last year, hoping to put her newfound passion into practice but feeling uncertain about where it could take her.

“I began my course without a clear direction, but it has led me to a place of immense satisfaction and fulfilment.”

In August, Vicky received the 2024 Student Design Award from the Kitchen and Bathroom Designers Institute (KBDi), Australia’s leading specialist kitchen and bathroom designers’ association.

The award was presented at a special ceremony attended by key industry representatives, and has cemented Vicky as a talented designer who pairs style and functionality with heart.

RMIT student Vicky Licha receiving her award.

Her kitchen design was inspired by memories of growing up in Argentina with her Lebanese grandfather.

Growing up, I was surrounded by beautiful tiles, spices, and warm colours and textures. I wanted to infuse these elements into my design.

“After hours of searching for similar kitchen designs with arches on Pinterest and finding none, I realised I had the opportunity to create something entirely new and extraordinary.”

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Vicky Licha's award winning design.

Her innovative use of colours and patterns was questioned by some, and she was even advised to overhaul her entire design just hours before submitting her award entry.

But Vicky believed in her vision – a belief instilled in her through her studies at RMIT.

“I decided to trust my instincts and stick with my original design. [The award] signifies that hard work and self-belief truly pay off.”

“Being part of a welcoming community [at RMIT] that supports and helps you thrive has been incredibly rewarding.”

As she prepares to graduate, she’s keeping an open mind about the future.

“I’m eager to embrace whatever opportunities come my way. Ideally, I’d love to be mentored by an experienced interior design to continue learning and improving my skills.”

Check out Vicky’s Instagram where she showcases her latest designs: @vicky__licha

Read more about RMIT’s Diploma of Interior Design

09 September 2024

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