Sahiba Kaur and Jyoti Mittal

Course of Study: BA (Hons) Interior Design
Company Name: IDEA Birmingham
Date recruited: February 2012
Industry: Art and Design
Location: Birmingham
Duration: Permanent

Aim

To ensure that the 10 different brands shortlisted for trading worked collectively as one shop while each brand's identity was maintained.

Responsibilities

Interior Designing and Spatial Planning: Conducting site surveys and producing accurate floor plans using AutoCAD
Work on zones and circulation routes for safe and better functionality
Visual Merchandising and Window displays: Research new ideas and develop cutting edge concepts
Furniture Design: To meet budgets, some of the furniture was also produced by us. eg Plinths, window props etc.
Project Management: Communication and co-ordination of traders
Liaise with builders to ensure budgets and deadlines are met

Outcomes and impact in the business

Researching and developing new concepts and ideas
Enhancing and building creative talent
Differentiating businesses, products and services
Increased awareness of the 10 brands
Attracting prospects and developing new business opportunities (Increased sales and more customers)
Promoting the business through social media
Worked successfully within the given budget
Improving communication and encouraging teamwork amongst all participants

What skills did you learn while studying at Birmingham City University that helped you find your job?

Key Skills: Leadership, communication, time management, organisation
IT Skills: AutoCAD, 3D Studio Max, Adobe Photoshop, Google SketchUp and Microsoft Office suite
Technical Skills: Knowledge of scale, proportion, colour, balance, harmony, rendering, sketches
Workshop Skills: Problem solving abilities
Handcraft: Understanding of model construction using loose tools and technical mindset
Spray booth: Model finishes
Cutters: Ban saw and metal cutters
Plastic heating: Vacuum forming, heat gun
Plastic manipulation