University News Last updated 18 January 2012
The way our homes may look next winter – including a Georgian inspired theme – will be unveiled by talented Birmingham City University design students who are part of an innovative design think-tank partnered with industry experts.
With a tough trading year ahead the best from the interior design industry will descend on the NEC Birmingham as part of INTERIORS UK 2012 looking for inspiration and to see first-hand Birmingham City University’s Trends Exhibition. The expo runs from 22 to 25 January 2012.
The annual showcase of new student talent has already launched a number of award-winning designers, including Emma Shipley, who scooped the John Lewis Emerging Designer accolade last year, Chelsea Flower Show exhibitor Suzi McLaughlin and interior designer Suberna Begum.
The Trends Exhibition is now in its fifth year, explained Joanna Birch, Head of External Development at Birmingham City University, and always creates a real buzz and sense of expectation.
“This year’s exhibition will be no exception and will showcase the ideas of 80 students with new inspiration for walls, floors and furniture. Design ideas are based on two concepts – ‘ember’ and ‘tender’ which have been identified by international trend experts Global ColorMix,” said Joanna.
“The exhibition is made up of two carefully crafted room sets and presents over 20 new design concepts featuring the blaze of autumnal warmth of the ‘ember’ trend, juxtaposed with the Georgian-inspired ‘tender’ trend.
“Intended to encourage discussion, the room sets and spinning sample walls are aimed at showcasing the range of ideas that could well be injected into next year’s interiors products.
“Integrating student design teams in the real world of business has been successfully applied by Birmingham City University – and this was very much the case for the Trends Exhibition with interior design students working with a number of commercial partners(1).
“Our Trends showcase often makes interior designers and manufacturers realise the power of students to stimulate their product innovation.”
With a downturn in the economy, added Joanna, many businesses are looking for fresh inspiration but may not have the investment to develop the exciting products needed to attract more customers. Working with student talent is therefore an ideal solution.
“Having already worked with internationally recognised brands like the Natural History Museum and HartmanUK, one of the UK leaders in Garden Furniture, we know how powerful this think-tank of inspiration can be in re-energising product design in a cost effective manner.”
• For more details about Birmingham Institute of Art and Design and their work with industry go to http://www.bcu.ac.uk/business/consultancy-and-partnerships