Student recognised by heritage homewares brand for designs inspired by Sir Terence Conran

A final-year student has won a prestigious prize sponsored by The Conran Shop during a University-organised trip to a major design event.

Huw Evans, who has just completed the BA (Hons) 3D Design course at the University, received the award from hundreds of entries at the New Designers event in London last week.

His winning work is a series of pieces of furniture called Concertina Collection. Huw will now choose between a three- or six-month placement at the company’s London headquarters, or £3000 towards developing his design for production.

Competition judges described Huw’s method as “an innovative technique that has opportunities in both furniture lighting, and lifestyle products”. They continued: “All these categories are central to The Conran Shop edit. The design has a connection to early designs of Sir Terence Conran. Huw is also passionate and articulate about his design.”

Huw was one of a group of final year students who attended New Designers to show their work, and what they can offer potential employers. Each year staff from the course accompany a group to the event, which brings together more than 3000 newly qualified designers and over 100 new creative businesses with design educators, professionals and consumers.

Huw said:

“I’m incredibly excited to pursue a career in the design industry following the positive responses from both the public and professionals throughout New Designers. Exhibiting alongside my course mates was the perfect way to conclude my studying.

“I’m looking forward to seeing more of The Conran Shop team and discussing the development of my Concertina Collection.”

Associate Head of School and 3D Design Lecturer Roy Tam said:

“We always work towards designs that are creative, useful, makeable and commercial, so it was a pleasure to meet judges that share our thinking.

“New Designers is the hunting ground for top companies looking for future talent. In this case The Conran Shop is potentially looking for a designer that they can work with in future, so they also liked how articulate Huw’s presentation was, and his potential in working as a team player. We look forward to helping Huw develop his designs further into production.”

As well as Huw, several University students received commendations for their work, and all made valuable connections with employers and the media. Mr Tam added:

“This year’s New Designers was a truly successful roller coaster ride. This award and so many commendations is a great recognition for the University, and gives a further boost to our students’ reputation in the design industry.”

To find out more about Huw’s work, see his Instagram (@handcraftinghuw) and website, and to get in touch email [email protected].

See more work from 3D design students on Instagram (@plym3d) or Facebook.