From Interior Design to UX Design: Aniq Basil’s Inspiring Career Transformation

Early Career: Crafting Spaces and Building a Business

Aniq Basil’s professional life began in the world of interior design, a field that combines artistry, technical skill, and a deep understanding of human needs. Over five to seven years, Aniq not only honed his craft but also built his own practice—an impressive feat for any designer, let alone one just embarking on his career.

“Setting up my own company was for me to know what I am as a designer. Working for others helped me understand what others expect from an interior designer,” Aniq reflects.

His work was varied and innovative, including collaborations with co-working and co-living companies. This diversity of experience allowed Aniq to explore the many facets of design, from aesthetics to functionality, and to gain a unique perspective on how spaces can shape human experience.

However, as the years passed, Aniq began to feel the constraints of an industry steeped in tradition. The interior design and architecture sectors, he observed, were dominated by established experts and well-worn processes.

“A lot of experts have already set the trends, and breaking the system takes a lot of push and the right people,” he explains. “Processes are always a big thing because people say, ‘Don’t change the process—we’re so used to it.’”

The Pandemic: A Turning Point

Like so many professionals, Aniq’s career was dramatically affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world shut down and people moved out of cities, the demand for spatial design dwindled. Projects were cancelled or indefinitely postponed, and the future of his practice became increasingly uncertain.

“I got laid off from my previous career due to COVID, and because people were moving out of the country, spatial design was taking a hit,” Aniq shares.

This period of upheaval, though unsettling, forced Aniq to reflect on his career, his ambitions, and his sense of purpose. For the first time in years, he found himself at a crossroads, questioning whether to continue on his current path or to seek out something new.

A Fortuitous Introduction to UX

Aniq’s introduction to UX design came about almost by chance. His sister-in-law, who worked for the UX education platform CuriousCore, interviewed him for a project. The experience sparked his curiosity about UX—a field that, while unfamiliar, resonated with his design sensibilities.

“Some of the things I learnt in design education aligned with UX, but the industry restrictions held me back,” Aniq says. “UX was the only one that felt truly forward-thinking.”

He was drawn to the emphasis on human-centred design and the focus on solving real-world problems. Unlike interior design, where established processes could stifle innovation, UX design seemed to celebrate fresh perspectives and continuous improvement.

Rather than agonising over his options, Aniq made a characteristically bold decision.

“I didn’t even research any other courses. I just went, boom, let’s go,” he laughs. “For me, it’s really about the people who are part of the organisation.”

Taking the Leap: CuriousCore’s UX Career Accelerator Programme

Aniq enrolled in CuriousCore’s UX Career Accelerator Programme, a four-month intensive programme designed to help professionals transition into UX design. The decision was impulsive, but it felt right.

From the outset, it was clear that this was no ordinary course.

“It doesn’t teach you what to do—it teaches you how to think,” Aniq emphasises.

The curriculum is structured to promote independent problem-solving and critical thinking. Rather than spoon-feeding answers, the programme encourages students to ask questions, seek out solutions, and challenge their own assumptions. The course involves real-world client projects, collaborative sessions, and career coaching, all designed to help participants build a portfolio and develop essential skills for the UX industry.

“As a UX professional, you’re solving people’s problems. Teaching someone how to think, rather than just what to do, makes you a better problem-solver.”

This approach was both challenging and liberating. Aniq was forced to step outside his comfort zone and develop new ways of approaching problems.

Learning, Unlearning, and Personal Growth

Transitioning from interior design to UX design was not without its difficulties. Aniq had to unlearn certain habits and adapt to a new way of thinking. The programme’s emphasis on discussion and collaboration proved invaluable.

“It’s not just for the clients—it’s enriching for yourself as a person,” he says. “You start to really listen to what others are saying and develop balanced thinking habits.”

One of the most rewarding aspects of the programme was the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with peers from a wide range of backgrounds. Whether they were engineers, marketers, or entertainers, each student brought a unique perspective. These exchanges broadened Aniq’s understanding of UX and helped him see how design thinking could be applied across industries.

“Debate is really important. It gives people a chance to understand each other’s points of view,” Aniq reflects. “The biggest takeaway was learning about who you are.”

Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Career Change

Changing careers is as much an emotional journey as a professional one. Aniq admits there were moments of doubt and confusion, especially as he grappled with the loss of his old identity and the uncertainty of his new path.

“You go through a career conversion course and you’re relearning things, changing parts of yourself. You can feel lost.”

During these moments, the support of his coaches and peers was crucial. One piece of advice, in particular, stayed with him:

“It doesn’t matter where you go—ultimately, it’s about how you influence what’s inside.”

This insight helped Aniq stay grounded and focused on his personal growth, rather than becoming distracted by external expectations or comparisons.

Transferring Skills: Old Foundations, New Applications

Aniq’s background in interior design proved to be an unexpected asset in his new career. While the tools and processes were different, the underlying principles of design—empathy, creativity, and problem-solving—remained the same.

“My interior design background still comes in handy. UX thinking applies across industries, even if there isn’t always an official role for it,” he explains.

He discovered that many of the skills he had developed over the years—such as understanding client needs, visualising solutions, and managing projects—were directly transferable to UX design. This realisation boosted his confidence and reinforced his belief that career transitions are not about starting from scratch, but about building on existing strengths.

Advice for Aspiring Career Changers

For those considering a switch to UX, Aniq offers practical and heartfelt advice. The first step, he says, is to understand what roles interest you—be it design, research, writing, or strategy.

“UX is very much related to tech, but it’s not limited to it. There’s UX in every industry, even if there isn’t always an official title for it.”

He encourages aspiring UX designers to focus on mindset rather than just technical skills.

“Other courses teach you skills, but skills can become obsolete. It’s more about how you think, interact, and set goals.”

Aniq believes that the most valuable part of his experience at CuriousCore was the emphasis on personal coaching and self-discovery. The programme challenged him to reflect on his values, strengths, and aspirations—a process that was both difficult and deeply rewarding.

“The biggest takeaway was learning about who you are.”

Looking Forward: A New Chapter in Design

Today, Aniq is thriving as a UX designer. He continues to refine his craft, drawing on his diverse experiences and his passion for solving complex problems. While the transition was challenging, he has no regrets.

“I feel like I have the sauce—I just need to make it right,” he says with a smile.

Aniq’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, adaptability, and lifelong learning. He hopes his story will inspire others to embrace change and discover new ways to grow—both professionally and personally.

Conclusion: The Power of Reinvention

Aniq Basil’s transformation from interior designer to UX designer is more than a career change—it’s a story of personal reinvention. His willingness to step into the unknown, challenge old assumptions, and learn new skills has opened up a world of possibilities.

For anyone standing at the crossroads of their career, Aniq’s journey offers a powerful reminder: it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. Sometimes, the most important step is simply to take the leap—and trust that you’ll find your way.

If you’re considering a career change or want to learn more about UX, let Aniq’s story inspire you to think differently, act boldly, and embrace the adventure of lifelong learning.

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