Join us for an insightful Q&A session as we catch up with Sara and Maya, talented third-year interior architecture and design students from BCU, who have recently wrapped up their engaging work experience here at Blocc.
In this conversation, they offer a firsthand look into their hands-on experiences and the valuable insights gained during their time in our studio – an exclusive peek behind the scenes with these promising student interior designers awaits you!
Can you share a bit about your background and what drew you to interior design?
We are third-year interior architecture and design students at BCU, both driven by a passion for transforming spaces into captivating and functional environments.
What fuelled your desire to pursue careers in interior design?
We love the idea of transforming ordinary spaces into something extraordinary by blending creativity with problem-solving. There is immense satisfaction in improving the way people live and work by designing inspiring environments.
Can you describe the brief you were given by Blocc for your work experience project? What were the key requirements?
The brief was to design a 1-bedroom apartment located in the lively neighbourhood of Shoreditch, London. The buyer persona was ‘first-time homebuyers who had been renting locally and were now ready to take the leap into homeownership’. Our goal was to create a space that was not only stylish and on-trend but also comfortable, functional, and reflective of the unique spirit of Shoreditch.
What sources of inspiration did you draw upon when developing your design concept for the project?
We drew inspiration from Shoreditch’s vibrant street art scene, with the aim to incorporate this into our design so that it resonated with the local area. Additionally, we researched current design trends via socials and looked to emerging sustainable practices to infuse fresh and environmentally conscious interior design ideas into our concept.
Can you share any specific design elements that you were particularly proud of in your project?
Incorporating sustainability into the design was a point of pride for us in this project. We made conscious choices in our selection of materials, colours, and furniture to ensure that the design not only looked great but would also have a positive impact on the environment.
What role did our team play in guiding you during your time at our studio? Were there any valuable insights that you gained from our designers?
The Blocc team were always happy to offer up practical advice and share their design knowledge & experiences. One of the most valuable insights we gained was the importance of attention to detail and how this can impact the quality of a design – it can really make or break the design.
How did your experience at Blocc impact your perspective on a career in interior design?
It completely reaffirmed our passion the interior design industry!
What advice would you give to other students considering work experience in the field of interior design, and what tips would you share for making the most of the experience?
Our advice would be to seek diverse work experience opportunities, to talk with industry professionals and to stay up to date with design trends & tools. To make the most of a work experience opportunity – be proactive, pay attention to detail, ask lots of questions and don’t be afraid to let your creativity shine!
In your opinion, how does practical experience in a real-world interior design studio like ours differ from your studies?
Our studies have given us a strong foundation of theoretical knowledge and design principles. However, the transition to the studio immersed us in the practical aspects of real projects, allowing us to see how to navigate client preferences, adhere to budgets, and handle tight deadlines. Additionally, our time at the Blocc studio emphasised the significance of teamwork and collaboration. Witnessing everyone consistently supporting one another revealed that these skills are just as vital as having a keen eye for design.
Lastly, what was the most memorable or rewarding part of your week with Blocc, and do you have any final thoughts or reflections on the experience?
Our most memorable and rewarding part was presenting our final design concept to Blocc and witnessing their excitement over our work!
Thank you for the warm welcome, support, and the opportunity to be a part of the team. We look forward to staying in touch and hope to cross paths with Blocc in the future!
Here at Blocc, we are confident that Sara and Maya will continue to excel and innovate in the field of interior design. Their time with us has been a testament to the power of nurturing young talent, and we eagerly look forward to seeing where their creativity and passion will take them next.