Sam joined Design Reality in August 2020. Prior to that, he completed his BA in Product Design at Cardiff Metropolitan University and graduated with a distinction grade from his Master’s Programme in Product Design at the same university. Sam agreed to answer some questions for our Journal, to present himself and hopefully inspire other budding designers.
1. What do you consider to be the defining point of your design experience?
When I was younger, I would always tinker around with tools, furniture and toys in a shed with my taid (welsh for grandad). I think the most definitive point of wanting to pursue product design was when I knew I realised I could combine my passions for helping others, fixing things, collaborating and creatively envisioning new physical solutions that could create meaningful experiences. More specifically one very memorable moment stands out – watching an old video online. I loved how a group of creatively intelligent individuals can solve a big problem together in such a short amount of time – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M66ZU2PCIcM.
2. What do you do at Design Reality?
I’m a graduate product designer that is getting stuck and in involved in multiple areas of the development process. From sketching out initial concepts to developing tangible 3D CAD models, to prototyping. Being a graduate product designer at Design Reality is exiting, simulating, and rewarding. Although it has only been a couple of weeks since starting, I feel like a valued member of the team already at Design Reality. The projects in which I am involved in have been incredible and the fast-paced environment has improved my skills immensely. Being trusted to design, create, and materialise an idea whilst adhering to a client’s specifications has and will motivate me to produce high quality work to my best ability and has secured my passion for design and innovation.
3. What do you most like about your new role?
Being immersed in a world leading consultancy that disrupts the market and provides intuitive and innovative solutions. Everyone here shares the same vision of collaboratively and efficiently solving problems. Everyone is willing to help instantly, without hesitation. Each day is never the same and I’m continuously learning something new. The daily challenge of “getting the job done” (and getting it done to a high standard) is exhilarating and rewarding. It’s always nice to know that with each daily challenge completed, it’s a step closer to creating an innovative, positive experience and helping someone with their problems.
4. First impressions of the team?
Warm. Welcoming. Diverse, and show a clear sense of purpose. Being immersed and working in an environment with amazingly talented and knowledgeable specialists has made working at Design Reality even more special. Each member of the team is always willing to aid one another and help solve an issue, answer a question or offer their support and guidance. It has been fascinating to see the multiple perspectives of how an issue has been approached, defined, and resolved. Collaborating and communicating with designers, lead designers, management and engineers is an eye-opening experience and one for which I’m truly grateful. Observing the development and materialisation of an idea into a fully functioning end product is fascinating to witness, let alone be part.
5. Describe yourself in 3 words.
Analytic (it’s both a blessing and curse)
Tenacious (Going after what my future self deserves).
Positive (Life’s too short for anything but).
6. Three people you would invite to dinner.
David Kelley
Gary Vaynerchuk
Yuval Noah Harari
