Work Experience

When the module launched, I was delighted since it offers a fantastic opportunity to work for professional designers. As I commute to university, I plan to find placement closer to home. The day after the module launch, I began to call design firms in Liverpool. I want to get a head start to prevent any pressure or interference regarding my studies. Shedkm is an award-winning practice located in Liverpool. They have worked on a range of projects including the Irwell Riverside Townhouses in Salford. Shedkm worked with Urban Splash to design mass housing. They modernize the concept of terrace houses to create a spacious, flexible, stylish and sustainable living for their occupants. The homes have unique exteriors that oppose the stereotypes of a conventional home. I believe that our houses should facilitate our lifestyle, to create a higher standard of living. As technology advances so should our homes, these properties represent the shift from traditional Victorian to the 21st-century life. Shedkm was the first firm that I contacted. The receptionist, who answered, advised me to send an email to the directors describing why I require experience and the dates I am available. The next place I called was Snook Architects. The person who answered the phone was extremely helpful. Unfortunately, he couldn't offer any work experience. Alternatively, he listed various practices that might be available and recommended people to contact. He suggested Harrison Stringfellow, a small firm based on Penny Lane. After studying their web page and the mass of projects they completed, I adored their collaborative approach. I am familiar with their work with Maray as I've visited the restaurant on Bold Street. Although small; the interior was arranged efficiently to provide a welcoming atmosphere. I admire how well Harrison Stringfellow have constructed Maray and their sophisticated spatial planning. I got in touch with the firm and asked about the possibility of work experience. I was encouraged to send in an email with my CV attached. However, I had not created a Design CV yet so needed to consult with my tutor. We went through my existing résumé and adjusted the content to be more appropriate to the creative industry. My tutor then gave me advice on how to layout my document and the features I could include to attract employers. I am happy that I had this tutorial as I now understand what practices are looking for and how to produce an aesthetically pleasing CV. I sent the email this morning. I am eager to hear back from Harrison Stringfellow. Applying for work experience has taught me how to be confident and direct. I avoid ringing people, but in this situation, I've forced myself to contact various practices and had a favourable response. If I hadn't of called Snook architects, I wouldn't have known about Harrison Stringfellow. By getting in touch with a range of people, I opened the door to so many possibilities and chances to gain experience. Now that I have created a Design CV, I am more inclined to visit firms and personally hand it in. Would personal interactions influence the impression I make on employers? I'm not sure, but I am intrigued to find out.