David Arratoon, Design Director at Collier Webb, delivered a fantastic talk this week. David began by giving an insight into the luxury lighting and furniture that Collier Webb produces, which includes standard products and bespoke products, an example of which is the chandeliers for Claridge’s Hotel. He gave a comprehensive overview of his role and involvement in the design process from beginning to finished piece. This process usually takes six months to a year and includes using CAD to develop 3D designs then prototyping using 3D printers.
David studied Art, English and History at A level and went on to do a Foundation at Eastbourne College. He highlighted the benefits of this route: it allowed him to explore a range of different art and design mediums; it helped him build a focussed and robust portfolio; universities expressed a preference for applicants who had done a Foundation year. After completing a degree at Nottingham Trent University in Furniture and Product Design, David wrote to a visiting speaker from Tom Dixon and secured a highly competitive internship. The quality he feels is most important for a career in Art and Design is passion, and there is no doubt that each step in David’s pathway has been achieved because of this trait, and his resourcefulness to create and take opportunities.
