Finding Beauty in Nature and Design
At Dar al-Kalima University in Bethlehem, creativity and purpose come together in every classroom, studio, and sketchbook. For second-year interior design student Nai, design is not just about creating beautiful spaces—it’s about creating harmony between people and nature.
“I’m most interested in sustainable furniture and anything that’s better for the environment,” she explains. “I want to understand how the environment and interior spaces can work together—how nature speaks to humans through their surroundings.”
Nai’s passion for design is rooted in her belief that interiors should reflect the soul. “Your interiors should speak to your soul,” she says thoughtfully. “They should give you comfort and make you feel at home—or at least like you’re exactly where you should be.”
Her design inspiration draws from mid-century modern style and natural elements. “Green is my favorite color,” she smiles. “Anything close to nature really speaks to me.”
Among her classes, Interior Design Studio III stands out as her favorite. The course gives her the opportunity to design real-world projects like a reception area, an art gallery, and a conference room—practical experience that she believes will shape her professional path. “It feels like I’m working on projects I’ll do in the future, not just in school,” she says.
When Nai reflects on her time at Dar al-Kalima so far, her face lights up. She loves building physical models, learning about design history, and collaborating with students across disciplines. “I took some graphic design courses, too,” she recalls. “It opened my eyes to the wider world of design and creativity. And I really love the atmosphere here—the friends, the connections—they mean so much to me.”
Yet life as a student in Palestine is not without challenges. Since October 7th, Nai and her peers have faced increased hardships. “I live in Bethlehem, so I don’t face as many issues personally,” she explains, “but my friends struggle to reach school or even just to move around. It’s mentally hard for everyone. Knowing what your people are going through makes it difficult to think about anything else—it makes you uncomfortable in your own space.”
Despite these challenges, Nai’s optimism shines through. She focuses on growth, discovery, and hope. “I’m really excited to get to know myself more—to figure out what I’m truly passionate about and how to build a story for my life, not just live it.”
Nai also shares how her family abroad keeps her connected to a larger world. Though she’s never been to the United States, several of her uncles live there. “They visit during summers and family occasions,” she says. “They love coming home to Palestine because it’s filled with family and connection—it brings them back to their childhood. The U.S. is more about work, but here, life is about people.”
This year, Nai received a scholarship for the 2025/2026 academic year at Dar al-Kalima University—a recognition of her dedication, creativity, and potential. Her scholarship was made possible because of generous supporters like you who believe in the transformative power of education and continue to invest in the next generation of Palestinian leaders.
Through her studies and her story, Nai embodies the heart of Dar al-Kalima University’s mission: nurturing creative, compassionate leaders who use art and design to build a better future for Palestine—and for the world.
