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Are you an up-and-coming designer? A current student or recent graduate in design, architecture or similar? Introducing We Build Marvels: an open design competition by RAK Ceramics.

We Build Marvels

RAK Ceramics, founded in 1989 and headquartered in the United Arab Emirates, is one of the biggest ceramic brands in the world – selling 118 million square metres of tiles and 5.7 million pieces of sanitaryware per year. RAK Ceramics helps to build marvels, with its products featuring in some of the most iconic buildings in the world, from the Burj Khalifa in Dubai to the 02 Arena in London.

This competition encourages entrants to celebrate that prestige through a creative design proposal.

RAK Ceramics

How To Enter

– Put together a design proposal for a physical piece of art that you will make, using products from the RAK Ceramics Surfaces catalogue and/or Bathroom catalogue.
– The artwork size must not exceed 1m wide x 2m tall.
– The theme of the artwork must be inspired by ‘We Build Marvels’ and RAK Ceramics would like it to celebrate the origins of the brand.
– Make sure the proposal is detailed and demonstrates originality, innovation and creativity.
– Submit your design proposal using the online form by 12th April 2024.

RAK Ceramics
RAK Ceramics

The Next Steps

RAK Ceramics will announce three finalists on 12th April 2024. If you’re a finalist, you’ll be sent the proposed materials and will have a 4-week window to make your art. You’ll then be invited to bring your art to the RAK Ceramics Design Hub before Clerkenwell Design Week (21st to 23rd May 2024).

The winner will be chosen during the event and the winning piece will be displayed in the window for three months. In addition, the winner will receive £1,000, with 2nd place getting £300 and 3rd place getting £200.

RAK Ceramics

Terms & Conditions

1. All entrants must be aged 18 years or above.
2. All entrants must be UK-based.
3. All entrants must be either a current student in further education or someone who has graduated within the last year.
4. Entrants cannot be associated with RAK Ceramics in any way.
5. All entries to be submitted by 12th April 2024 via the online form.
6. The judges are looking for an original idea in the proposal. Please do not submit a piece of work that is a copy of another artist’s image.
7. You can use other materials for your art, but RAK Ceramics products must be predominantly used and celebrated.
8. By entering this competition and if chosen as a finalist, you must be able to transport your piece of art to the RAK Ceramics Design Hub in London before Clerkenwell Design Week 2024 – and agree to it being on display. It will also be photographed for promotional purposes, such as social media.

About RAK Ceramics Ltd

RAK Ceramics products feature in some of the most iconic buildings in the world. Known for a wide product range and the ability to produce bespoke solutions for both small and large scale projects, RAK Ceramics enable clients to bring their ideas to life. They respect, inspire, improve and deliver; today, tomorrow, no matter the ambition, no matter the challenge, RAK Ceramics take care of all the details, so you don’t have to. Their passion and expertise combined with a careful attention to detail means they can provide you with a range of integrated ceramics solutions, allowing you freedom to be creative and plenty of room for imagination.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

SBID Members and pioneering British design brand Bisque has announced Radical 40, an exclusive competition to find the ‘next big thing’ in stylish radiators and celebrate its landmark 40th anniversary.

Bisque Radiators Radical 40 design competition artwork for web

The company, having transformed the humble radiator from being regarded as merely a technical plumbing item into a desirable design-led product in its own right, is on the hunt for the next generation of stylish radiators. From statement-making pieces to sleek, space-saving towel radiators and compact school-style models, Bisque design luxury radiators to complement and enhance any interior, be it traditional, contemporary or somewhere in-between.

Budding designers and Bisque fans alike will be invited to join the movement and make their mark on the design industry by creating the brand’s newest model.

The competition deadline for entries is in October, where all entrants will be judged by a panel of industry experts, including journalists, designers and Bisque officials. The winning model is then set to be unveiled during an exclusive preview in November. The winning design will be awarded a cash prize; plus, provided the design works technically, will go into production!

Bisque Archibald towel rail luxury radiators in chrome feature for Bisque Radical 40 design competition

Bisque Radiators featuring the Archibald

Eagle-eyed Bisque fans may recall the last time Bisque invited the public to design a new model to join its repertoire of unique luxury radiators. The prize model, the Archibald – designed by Italian Leo Salzedo – went on to win the 2006 designboom competition and is still one of the brand’s most iconic and instantly recognisable radiators today.

Named one of The Observer’s CoolBrands three years in a row, Bisque paved the way for a radiator revolution. Notable models include the Leaf and Cactus radiators, while partnerships with the likes of Paul Priestman have kept Bisque at the forefront of cutting-edge radiator design ever since.

Speaking of the competition, brand leader Ellie Sawdy commented: “We are thrilled to be launching this competition to commemorate four decades of innovative radiators. Here at Bisque we have always maintained that radiators don’t need to be boring, and this philosophy remains a core part of our brand’s ethos. We are equally excited by the fresh, young design talent the UK has to offer, so are incredibly excited to see what the British public comes up with”.

For further information on entering, click here or search #Radical40 on social media to find out more.

As Get me 2 the Top 2019 reaches its deadline, students have until 5pm today (28 June) to submit their end-of-year projects in either Residential Design or Public Space Design to win an internship with leading London-based design practices, 1.61 London and Crawford Partnership. SBID caught up with Tacan Ibrahimoglu; previous Get me 2 the Top Winner 2018. The interior design student from the University of Central Lancashire completed her 3-month internship with 1.61 London in October last year, so we got in touch to find out what she learnt and how her internship experience has helped grow her career in interior design.

Dr Vanessa Brady OBE with Tacan receiving her certificate at the House of Lords, October 18

What did you learn from your internship with 1.61 London?
I can honestly say that I learned and developed a lot in 3 months; mainly about the interior design business and the design industry throughout London and the rest of the world. Specifically, I  developed my knowledge about materiality, suppliers, client relationships, architectural details, software tools, visualisation and design technologies, as well as  how to find the best design solutions, ergonomically and aesthetically. I was involved in all stages of the design process within the busy design studio which taught me how important teamwork is when it comes managing a design business appropriately.

What was your favourite aspect from your time interning?
I enjoyed each step of my involvement with the projects I worked on whilst interning with 1.61 London – from creating colour schemes, material boards, design concepts and zoning, to attending site visits. At each stage, attention to detail was key!

Did you face any challenges during this placement?
Yes, I did face some challenges, but luckily, all the challenges reached a happy resolution. I didn’t know London very well when I first started the internship and beginning a new journey always presents new challenges – for me, all the challenges that arise are worth it because it’s my dream to become a successful and experienced creative designer.

Careers Interior Design Internships
Eaton Square Project by 1.61 London
Careers Interior Design Internships
Eaton Square Project by 1.61 London
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Was there a particular project you enjoyed working on?
I can say that my favourite project to work on during my placement was the Eaton Square Project which I was able to create 3D visualisations for. I admired the whole design of the property; the chosen furniture, the extension feature and the French-style garden, so it was a real pleasure for me to be involved in!

What advice would you give to other students about to undertake an internship?
Interning is a perfect way to understand every aspect of a job and what the key points and responsibilities are; especially if the student is sure of the subject they have chosen to develop their expertise within – it’s a great way to gain further insight. Interning will lead you to the next step, giving you confidence about running or understanding a business, or even starting your own!

In my opinion, it’s useful to consider if the company matches your own concept and styles, as well as align with your own values as a designer. It’s also good to try and find out what kind of availability or level of training the designers within the company can offer you during the internship to see what kind of value you can get from it.

During your internship though, I think it’s good to try and focus your attention to think about which area of the design process you really want to be involved in; whether practical side or management – as this will help you to streamline your development within a specific area.

Tacan receiving her certificate at the House of Lords, October 2018

 How has this work experience helped you on your career journey?
Effectively! Starting a design career in London made me decide that I want to stay here. London is a city I feel happy and productive, that I can be myself. The freedom of expressing myself has always helped me during my journey; to become a better designer every day.

What are the next steps for you now?
I will continue to design, create, develop further and work hard to reach successful and beneficial outcomes. I have recently decided to start specialising in quality furniture design alongside interior design. Having studied a Fine Art Foundation Degree, I have a massive interest in art and design. I always like to keep track of contemporary and historical art as much as I can! The art and design industry is like an ocean for me, which I have a deep passion for — it’s always evolving with lots of varieties and styles globally.

With this in mind, I am also working on curating art and design around the world – I’m a designer and an artist who also supports other designers and artists; I aim to always be very good at what I’m doing and evolve my career within this diverse industry.

I am extremely thankful to SBID for providing such fantastic opportunities for new designers!

Click here to enter Get me 2 the Top 2019

We spoke with Alan Crawford, Chair of RIBA North London Architects Group and Managing Director of London based architecture and interior design studio, Crawford Partnership; a company that regularly provides internship placements, and is also one of our inspiring design practices who will be offering a 3-month internship to the public space category winner of Get me 2 the Top UK 2019. Alan shared his thoughts on what young design interns should be considering as they start their careers in a profession and industry that will look radically different in 10 years.

The Future of Design for young designers with Crawford Partnership for SBID interior design blog

Crawford Partnership – Stonechat Mews

The Future of Design Internships

As Chair of RIBA North London Architects Group, Alan’s personal concerns over the future of academic education and practical training to address this changing future within architecture and other design professions, also forms part of his NLAG group ongoing discussions to ensure that students and their mentors fully appreciate and are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge base to deal with new technologies, automation and robotics that threaten to marginalise those without the necessary training.

Starting out his own career in architecture by spending 2 years working in several design and construction companies across the UK and gaining valuable practical experience in between his 5 years of academic studies, Alan considers internships as an effective way of introducing aspiring young designers to the increasingly complex world of design as a ‘business’.

There are many benefits in completing an internship, and as founder of Crawford Partnership, Alan has mentored countless architecture and interior design students who have worked at the firm on short 2 – 3 month internships or have spent a year working during their periods of practical training. Helping students gain invaluable experience at his office, transferable skills and confidence in the work environment; building a solid portfolio of credible work experience whilst studying. All of which can enhance a student’s CV and make it stand out in front of potential employers.

In today’s competitive global economy, an internship is an invaluable addition to any CV. There are however a host of factors which you should bear in mind when you consider undertaking an internship. Alan shares valuable insights on how he believes students can make the most of their internships to impress employers, summarising some of his thoughts on topical subjects that interns in the design world should aim to learn about in order to give them that competitive edge.

The Future of Design for young designers with Crawford Partnership for SBID interior design blog
Crawford Partnership – Darling House
The Future of Design for young designers with Crawford Partnership for SBID interior design blog
Crawford Partnership – Stonechat Mews


The Future of Design in the 21st Century

In the 21st century, the business of design across all areas is experiencing a profound evolution as new digital technology supersedes more traditional methods of working that have existed in design studios for decades. Students seeking internships today and progressing their career with interior design firms can no longer simply rely on CV’s that promote well-crafted hand drawing skills, some CAD drafting ability, and a basic knowledge of materials, fixtures and fittings.

Interns must now be familiar with the many new digital technologies that are being introduced in the workplace intended to enhance and replace some of the more traditional skills. Knowledge or experience of these new technologies will provide interns with an opportunity to stand out amongst employers who may not already have these skillsets ‘in-house’, and who are increasingly aware of the necessities of implementing them within their own businesses in order to be more competitive in the design world.

  • Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality is a key area of future design practice that introduces three dimensional visual effects enabling people to see what their future home could look like before building it in reality. This is very well illustrated in a new BBC2 series ‘Your Home Made Perfect’ where aspiring home renovators are thrust into a life sized 3D internal environment where they can see their designers ideas come to life in virtual reality. Virtual reality is developing fast and in five to ten years it will be an integrated part of the interior designers toolkit, for instance, it could be used to enable people to try out a variety of home furnishing solutions before buying them, and already IKEA is showcasing this technology for its customers. Interns would benefit from a better understanding and knowledge of this rapidly growing technology.
  • Building Information Modelling (BIM) software is already used in many design offices for complex projects. Interns may be skilled in 2D and 3D computer drafting techniques, which will undoubtedly be an asset to potential employers who already make use of a computer drafting system in the production of their designs, however, having a basic understanding of the fundamentals of BIM will be appealing to employers. BIM is an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives architecture and interior design, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure. Design firms developing their projects can work simultaneously with other design professions, clients and contractors, sharing and coordinating input anywhere in the world with BIM files stored in the ‘Cloud’.  BIM models and the data they contain are now described as ‘digital twins’, providing an accurate 3 dimensional replica of a new building (or an existing building) which can be used as a realistic historic record in the event of future damage or loss – e.g. Notre Dame. Visit Syncronia and Autodesk to learn more about BIM software.
  • Artificial Intelligence and robotics. Beyond the mainstay of ever-evolving design and construction techniques, data science and artificial intelligence (AI) are poised to disrupt the ages-old design professions. With the increasing use of artificial intelligence and robotics to automate what has traditionally been human input in many areas of the workplace, it is forecast that even the creative industries will be impacted on by new technologies within 10 or 15 years. As an example, computer algorithms written by data programmers can now produce responses to maximising the clients brief for the most efficient office layout taking account of many parameters such as building shape, floor area, occupancy levels, furniture layout, aspect and sun path movement, circulation, etc, analysing these at lightning speed to produce the most efficient layout. WeWork spoke about their suite of procedural algorithms for space planning in commercial offices – their tool to calculate the most efficient ways to arrange desks in office environments – read more.

In only scratching the surface on where technological innovation is already advancing in the design professions, it’s clear that the impact of these new technologies in design also requires a new breed of designers to plan for the dramatically changing future of design, and this new breed of designers are the interns and students of today. These young designers will be multifaceted, able to juggle many skills at once, from programming of algorithmic code and data in production and analysis of design options, to injecting an intuitive understanding of spatial awareness to produce three dimensional designs further enhanced by augmented reality to sell their ideas.

This new breed of individual is already appearing today in the design world, and in concluding, Alan would recommend that in order to better appreciate and prepare for this changing future of design, that all young design interns and students should read Superusers: Design Technology Specialists and the Future of Practice by Randy Deutsch to more fully understand what it means to be a designer in the 21st century.

With just under 2 weeks to go, find out how to enter now for your chance to win a 3-month internship with Crawford Partnership this Summer!

The deadline to enter this year’s Get me 2 the Top interior design student competition is Friday 28 June.

There is no denying that building a solid portfolio of credible work experience whilst studying, can give your CV the legs it needs to sing and dance in front of potential employers. Aside from that all-important competitive edge, there are a host of other benefits which you should bear in mind when you consider undertaking an internship.

We spoke with Alexander Christou, property developer and Director of luxury interior design studio 1.61 London. A company that regularly provides internship placements, and is also one of our inspiring design practices who will be offering a 3-month internship to the residential category winner of Get me 2 the Top UK 2019.

He shares valuable insight about his experience with interns at 1.61 London, what he looks for in an intern and how he would advise students to make the most of their internships, leaving employers with a lasting impression.

Starting out his own career by interning across numerous fields, from insurance to property development, Alex is dedicated to following the same philosophy with 1.61 London. In fact, he admits that a large proportion of the staff at 1.61 London originally started out as interns! Being a firm believer that interning is an effective way of ‘trialling’ potential employees, it helps him to gauge how well they work in the office environment, how they interact with the rest of the team and if he can envisage a future for them at 1.61.

Alex summarises some of the key characteristics he looks out for…

The importance of internships for interior design with 1.61 London

Tailoring your CV

Many employers like myself receive a heavy influx of generic CV’s with the same impersonal content, layout structure, list of relevant skills, educational accomplishments – and worse, spelling errors. This means that it’s more important than ever to take a personalised approach. Showing drive and enthusiasm for that specific company when applying for the role can demonstrate to the employer or hiring manager that you are likely to show that same level of initiative in practice. They want to know WHY you want to work for them, and HOW you can add value.

Spending that extra hour to tailor your CV, research the company, or think of an intuitive way to reach them, could go a long way in speaking to the employer on a more personal level. In fact, I have previously hired someone at 1.61 London based on a personal, hand-written letter I had been sent; something as simple as this, to me showed genuine hunger and enthusiasm to work for me and my company.

 

Standing out from the crowd

It’s not just CV’s that have trouble standing out. It’s even more difficult now, in this day and age, to truly shine whether that be on paper or in person. However, I would urge you to remember that although there may be other students with the same (or better) grades – you can’t fake passion.

It’s important to show that you have a great passion for the industry or field you wish to work in, and there are lots of ways to do so – if you look for them. Whether creating something unique on social media or blogging platforms to display your passion, building relationships by meeting as many people in the industry as you can, or even hosting your own podcast – figure out how to distinguish yourself from everyone else, and use your passion to drive you forward and showcase this.

 

Know what you want to get from it and don’t be afraid to ask

Make sure you understand who you’re working with and get to know the working environment. Every workplace is different, so when you have questions to ask you should not be afraid – but you should also pick the right moments.

If you really want to learn or understand things, create a list of questions or certain aspects you want to explore during your internship and try to set a meeting with your superior at an appropriate time to discuss those – if it’s done in a professional and constructive way, there will usually be a positive response.

The importance of internships for interior design with 1.61 London

Showing a positive attitude can go a long way

It’s all about attitude. Being at the beginning of your career, you won’t know a great deal about the industry, so it’s important to show a willingness to learn, get involved and interact with the people around you.

You simply get the most out of an internship when you put the effort into it! Sitting around with nothing to do, or not showing any interest or engagement with your allocated tasks will never reap positive rewards. Interns may not always get the most ‘glamorous’ of jobs, but there are always tasks that need doing in a busy office. So get stuck in; make yourself useful, take the initiative, show enthusiasm to prove your worth and add value within your role – in most cases, it will not go unnoticed because essentially, every employer is looking for someone with a real desire to learn.

 

Key points to remember

The key is to really understand the process; you must strike a clever balance between being patient with it and also making it clear what you’re there to learn. Showing a good attitude, using your initiative, and going the extra mile with even the simplest of tasks will lead to bigger things. If you do all of the above and know what you want to get out of the internship from the outset, it will more than likely be reciprocated by the staff and your bosses, resulting in a mutually rewarding process for both the intern and the employer.

 

Entries are now open for Get me 2 the Top 2019. For your chance to win a 3-month internship with 1.61 London this Summer, visit the website to find out how to apply.

This week SBID delved behind the scenes with one of our student design competition judges, Jane Hay, the International Managing Director for Christie’s Education. As students across the UK have been celebrating the announcement of the Designed for Business category finalists, revealed on Monday 29th October 2018, Jane shared her advice about curating creative careers and how she would choose to spend the £30,000 prize fund to help kick-start a career in the competitive industry.

Can you describe your current job?

I am the International Managing Director for Christie’s Education, a global division of the world’s leading art business, Christie’s.

Christie’s Education is a specialist provider of higher and continuing education, and an internationally recognised centre of academic excellence in the study of art business and the art market, art history and art world ecosystems, curating and connoisseurship. We offer master’s degrees in London and New York, and are dedicated to preparing students for entry into the art world, placing great importance on analytical skills, object-based learning, research and scholarship, and the practical experience of art and business as the keys to professional success. We also offer a wide range of continuing education opportunities, both online and on location in London, New York and Hong Kong, designed to introduce the fundamentals of art, collecting and art business.

Jane Hay, Managing Director of Christies Education feature for SBID interior design blog, The Judges Insight, Designed for Business student design competition

What is your background and how did you get into your industry?

My father was an art teacher and latterly an antique dealer. Appreciation of art and design, and its role in creating our social fabric, was a theme running throughout my childhood. I was very lucky to secure a job at Christie’s by writing to them and asking if there were any positions available. Since then I’ve held several positions in the company, including Specialist, Auctioneer, Global Divisional Director and UK Managing Director of Christie’s. I have now been at Christie’s for thirty years, including six years at Christie’s Education.

Jane Hay, Managing Director of Christies Education feature for SBID interior design blog, The Judges Insight, Designed for Business student design competition

Which people do you admire most in the industry and why?

I most admire those who have deep knowledge and expertise in their chosen field, are generous with that knowledge, and continue to look for ways to challenge and innovate.

How do you feel about being a judge for SBID’s new student design competition?

I welcome every opportunity to support young creatives. The Designed for Business student design competition should have a significant impact for the eventual winner’s career prospects, so I am excited to be part of it.

How did you find your judging experience?

We considered works of a very high standard from across all categories. I was impressed by the dynamism of the entrants and their ability to connect deeply and creatively with topical issues and to use their talents to communicate ideas in ways that could have real commercial potential.

What advice would you give a young designer starting out in the industry?

Immerse yourself in the creative hub in your city, live where the creative people live and work, and insert yourself into their world. Spend six months listening before you start selling yourself – you will learn a lot. Any job is better than no job; it’s about being there and gaining visibility. Be part of the conversation.

If you had won £30,000 just after graduating from University, what would you have done with it?

I would have rented live-work space in the creative hub I just referred to and got to work! There is no substitute for hard work.

Click here to find out more about this year’s Designed for Business judging panel or visit our website here for further announcements and information about this inaugural student design competition!

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