MFA2 Program at NYSID: A Path to Innovation and Collaboration
Kelly and Emma Ratner
Kelly and Emma Ratner, twin sisters and current students in NYSID’s Post-Professional Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design (MFA2) program, share how their passion for design led them to NYSID and how the program has shaped their growth as designers.
From hands-on learning to industry connections, they discuss with Swagatika Rath (MFA1) what makes the MFA2 program unique and how it has prepared them for the future.
Swagatika Rath: What made you decide to pursue interior design as a career?
Kelly Ratner: In high school, an architectural CAD class and art courses sparked my passion for interior design, inspiring me to pursue it as a career. I have always been fascinated with the interior and artistic world, so I continued on the path to pursue it as a career in undergraduate and now at a graduate level.
Emma Ratner: Art has always been my passion, from drawing and painting to dance and fashion design. In high school, an interior design and architectural CAD class showed me how the field blends creativity, technical skills, and problem-solving, inspiring me to pursue it as a career.
What inspired both of you to pursue the MFA2 program at NYSID, and how has the journey aligned with your initial expectations?
KR: I am passionate about learning and getting my MFA just made sense in developing my career and skills. NYSID stood out for its firm-like structure and a curriculum that offered valuable experience across various design fields, including hospitality, education, and museum design, all essential for my future in the industry.
ER: Meeting Jason Win '24 (MFA1), inspired me to explore the school, and after visiting, I was impressed by its faculty, facilities, and hands-on curriculum. Wanting to further my education and opportunities, I chose the MFA2 program, which has exceeded my expectations. It has helped me grow as a designer, connect with NYC’s design community, and build a strong portfolio.
What do you think sets the MFA2 program at NYSID apart from other design programs you've encountered?
KR: The outstanding faculty. Working with professors who are currently practicing is crucial to stay updated on the new innovations in design. Also, there are great events at NYSID where I go to hear from guest speakers which has really expanded my perspective on design.
ER: The MFA2 program stands out for its real-world approach. The program feels like working in a design firm. I’m managing my own projects, collaborating with professors who act as mentors, and learning how to create designs that balance creativity with practicality. It teaches me to balance creativity with practicality while providing valuable connections to NYC’s design community through industry events and accomplished alumni.
Are there any assignments that you’ve done in your classes that you’re proud of?
KR: My biggest accomplishment so far has been my Education Studio project. Working with the idea of how to build a fine arts university specialized in sculpture into a historic loft in New York City has pushed me to think of ways that Neoclassical could bridge the gap in the two. Incorporating Platonic idealism into the core of the project in the schematic design phase and having it have such a positive response in the design is what I am most proud of.
ER: I’m especially proud of my education design project, a School of Fashion that blends couture and minimalism. Inspired by Coco Chanel and Christian Dior, the design merges historical fashion philosophies with modern elements like polished metals, concrete, and a bold monochromatic palette. Featuring spaces such as sewing studios, a gallery, an auditorium, and a rooftop runway, the project showcases my ability to integrate tradition with contemporary design to foster creativity and collaboration.
Looking ahead, how do you see the skills and knowledge from the MFA2 program shaping your future as designers?
KR: The program is highly intensive and fast-paced, which ensures that by the time I graduate and enter the workforce, I will be well-prepared and fully equipped to meet the demands of the industry. From research and planning to floor plans and presentations, everything I’ve learned is directly applicable to the expectations of designers in the field.
ER: The program has strengthened my design thinking, technical skills, and collaboration, with a focus on branding and storytelling. I’m eager to apply my skills in a design firm and stay connected to industry trends through my International Interior Design Association involvement and attending design events to expand my network and continue growing in the design community.
How has studying in New York City influenced your design perspective and approach to projects?
KR: New York City is extraordinary! It’s a true microcosm of the world, where countless ideas and influences converge in one place. It’s a global city that has not only shaped my perspective but continuously teaches me through its surroundings. Being in this environment with access to showrooms like the New York Design Center at 200 Lex and visits to places like Knoll has been one of the greatest gifts of the area.
ER: Studying in New York City has been transformative. I’m constantly surrounded by inspiration, whether it’s from architecture around me, museums especially The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the incredible design showrooms and events happening. Being in the city has pushed me to think bigger and embrace bold ideas.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering the MFA2 program?
KR: Immerse yourself fully in the NYSID community. There are so many events and conversations that can help shape your perspective as a designer. Take advantage of every opportunity to connect and collaborate, NYSID is more than an education, it’s an evolving dialogue and I highly recommend being an active voice in it.
ER: Take full advantage of everything the program and NYC have to offer. I advise you to engage with your professors, attend design events, and network as much as possible. The MFA2 program is intense, but if you stay open to feedback and immerse yourself in the experience, it’s an incredible opportunity to grow as a designer and build connections that will benefit you throughout your career.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of being part of the NYSID community, and how has it influenced your growth as a designer?
KR: Working with my classmates who all have a passion for design has influenced me so much. Being able to bounce ideas off each other and support each other’s individual design journey has made NYSID feel so much like a community.
ER: The most rewarding aspect of being part of the NYSID community has been the collaborative environment. The professors are knowledgeable, and I’ve learned so much from working alongside my peers, who all bring unique perspectives to the table. It’s also inspiring to see alumni succeeding in the industry. It’s made me even more motivated to push myself and explore new possibilities in design
How do you stay inspired and motivated while managing the demands of the MFA2 program?
KR: Staying inspired is important to me as an interior design student and as an artist. Visiting galleries like the MET and Perrotin Gallery broadens my perspective. I approach ideas through motion whether on paper or in space. My sketchbook is filled with quick, fluid explorations, capturing concepts. Dance, another one of my passions, is much like design. It is about rhythm and movement through space. Both help me think and create, and how I translate ideas into experiences and interiors for my projects.
ER: For me, inspiration comes from many places. I love looking at fashion and photography, flipping through magazines, and exploring social media for fresh ideas. I also find that working on projects I’m passionate about keeps me motivated. I’m drawn to design because it’s such a creative field, and that passion helps me stay focused, even when the workload is intense.
Interested in the MFA2 program?
The Post-Professional Master of Fine Arts is a full-time two-year, terminal degree program that provides professionals in interior design, architecture, environmental design, and closely related fields with the opportunity for advanced creative and academic scholarship in interior design. This program is open to those who have a professional degree in interior design, architecture, or a related field. For more information about the program, contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@nysid.edu.
Swagatika Rath is in her second year of the MFA1 program.