17
Dec
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In conversation with – Blair Boyle, Associate, Workplace Designer at Savills.
Navigating the Design Industry: Lessons from an Associate Designer
In this episode of the “Space by Stansons” podcast, we had the pleasure of chatting with Blair, an associate workplace designer at Savills. Sharing his insights and experiences, offering valuable lessons for aspiring designers and industry professionals alike.
Blair recounted an early memory that shaped his career – a task to create a “grommet drawing” during his first weeks on the job. As a junior designer, he hesitated to ask for clarification, a common challenge faced by many newcomers. This experience highlighted the importance of being bold, asking questions, and not being afraid to seek guidance, even when unsure.
Discussing the differences between design education and the realities of the industry, He emphasized the importance of understanding commercial viability, buildability, and longevity of design solutions. Aspects like budgets, regulations, and product testing were often overlooked in academic settings but are crucial in the professional world.
As Blair’s career progressed, he found himself working on larger-scale projects, where collaboration and adaptability became key. He shared his experiences navigating different design approaches within his team, highlighting the value of being open-minded and learning from others.
When asked about his dream project, Blair’s response centered around the joy of creative problem-solving, reflecting on a quote that design is a “useful tool for creative people in challenging circumstances.” He acknowledged the duality of his own organizational tendencies, noting the value of embracing flexibility and taking breaks from structure.
As the conversation drew to a close, Blair offered valuable advice for junior designers: never stop asking questions, continue learning, and embrace the ever-evolving nature of the industry. He emphasized the importance of adaptability and the power of creativity in navigating the design landscape.
Through Blair’s engaging and insightful storytelling, this episode of the “Space by Stansons” podcast offers a glimpse into the design industry’s realities, challenges, and opportunities. His experiences and lessons serve as a guiding light for aspiring designers, reminding them to stay curious, collaborative, and adaptable in their pursuit of design excellence
“keep being curious and keep learning.”
Blair Boyle
Listen to the full conversation on Space by Stansons – In conversation with Blair Boyle
