For most interior design students, thesis work revolves around familiar environments—homes, offices, cafes. But for Marin Jan Infante of La Consolacion College Bacolod, the horizon extended far beyond. Her thesis, “Runway to Excellence: Integrating Experiential Theory into an Aviation School for Learning Optimization,” took off—literally and figuratively—and has now earned a coveted spot in KIDLAT 4.0, the national showcase of exceptional academic works in Interior Design.
Hosted by the Council of Interior Design Educators (CIDE) and the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), KIDLAT 4.0 is more than just an exhibit—it’s a celebration of bold ideas, future-ready spaces, and design innovation. Set for May 28–30, 2025 at the University of San Carlos, Cebu City, the event gathers the country’s top student and faculty researchers under the theme “Beyond Boundaries: Fresh Perspectives in Innovation.” And Marin’s work certainly lives up to that call.
“I took a leap of faith,” she says, reflecting on her decision to venture into aviation—a field rarely explored in interior design studies. “But I’ve always been fascinated by how immersive it is. I wanted to see how space could actively enhance learning in such a high-stakes environment.”
Guided by David Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory, Marin conceptualized an aviation school where every space supports the cycle of learning—doing, reflecting, thinking, and experimenting. From a modular simulation room mimicking cockpit conditions to an interactive lobby designed as a learning exhibit, each detail reflected not just function but intentional transformation. Her design was also inspired by the eagle—a powerful metaphor woven into spatial flow and aesthetics to emphasize vision, strength, and cohesion.
But it wasn’t an easy flight. Marin recalls the struggle of finding resources, respondents, and related studies. “It was rare ground,” she admits, “but with enough grit, I was able to push through and build something I believed in.”
That belief was rewarded. Being chosen as the student representative for LCC Bacolod at KIDLAT left her “incredibly surreal” and grateful. “I hope my project sparks conversations about how we can design learning environments that go beyond the traditional classroom,” she shares, “and create spaces that truly prepare people for the demands of their chosen paths.”
With her work standing alongside the best and brightest in the country, Marin Jan Infante proves that when passion meets purpose, design can truly take flight.