Furniture Designer

What is the work like?

As a furniture designer, you would produce designs for items of furniture which could be mass-produced, made in small batches or as one-offs.

You could just be involved in the design aspect of the work, or you could make furniture from your own designs.

Your day-to-day tasks would vary depending on the job, but could include:

• carrying out research to help develop ideas
• considering how the item will look and how practical or functional it will be
• working to a brief agreed with a client
• producing new designs or improving existing ones if working for a manufacturer
• taking into account cost and availibility of materials and safety implications
• preparing sketches of initial ideas, by hand or using computer software
• working closely with other professionals such as production managers, marketing staff and design engineers
• testing ideas using models, prototypes and computer-aided design (CAD)
• preparing more detailed final designs – in larger companies these may be worked up in detail by specialist staff.

If you are self-employed you would also market your work and carry out tasks involved in running a business, such as budgeting and administration.

What qualifications and experience will employers look for?

You would usually need a relevant BTEC HND or degree – courses which include practical skills as well as creative design would be most useful. You could complete a specific furniture design degree, or a degree in a relevant subject such as 3-D design, spatial design, furniture technology or product design.

To search for colleges and universities offering art and design HNDs and degrees see Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. Check with colleges and universities for their entry requirements.

You would need to put together a portfolio of your design work that you can take along to interviews for courses and jobs.

Because the design industry is very competitive, any work experience you gain will give you an advantage when it comes to getting a job. It can be worthwhile researching companies whose products match your style, and making speculative approaches. Entering competitions, exhibitions and shows may also be a good way of getting your work noticed by employers.

If you intend to become self-employed, you can develop practical skills such as upholstery and carpentry on a wide range of courses offered by local colleges.

The crafts officer of your local regional arts board may be able to advise on studio availability and possible sources of funding. See the Arts Council website for contact details.

What further training and development can I do?

You should continue to build your portfolio and develop your skills and contacts throughout your career. Joining organisations like the Chartered Society of Designers would give you professional recognition, and networking and training opportunities.

You can keep up to date with developments in trends, materials and equipment by reading professional journals such as Design Week, and visiting trade shows and exhibitions.

You could also take short courses in skills such as computer aided design (CAD) with local colleges or private training providers, and attend training days on new software and technology, which may be provided by your company or by manufacturers.

The Design Association Academy offers a Diploma in Design Business Management, which may be relevant if you are self-employed or freelance. Visit the Design Association website for details.

Where can I go for more information?

Tel: 0845 300 6200

11 Southwark Street
London
SE1 1RQ
Helpline: 0800 093 0444

If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at learndirect Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form

Related profiles...

Cabinet Maker

Product Designer

Upholsterer

Furniture Restorer

Ergonomist