Back in June our Co-founder Rachael Taylor had the honour of representing Make it in Design at New Designers in Islington, London as a guest judge.
Whilst at the show Rachael selected designers she wanted to shine a spotlight on, so today we meet Kate …
What university did you attend and what degree?
University of Wales Trinity Saint David -Bachelor of Arts in Surface Pattern Design and Textiles for Interiors with First Class Honours
Tell us a little about how you got started in design
Throughout my education, I naturally leaned towards creative subjects and have always been inspired by process and theory. I find great interest in learning about patterns and design from the past and how their meanings have come to change and evolve with modern society. Generationally, the arts run through my family as hobbies and lifestyles, so from that perspective it was always supported. This allowed me to create with passion and find my significant handwriting.
Can you tell us a little bit about how you create a design? Where do you get inspiration from?
I gravitate towards digital design and consider digital repeats as one of my best strengths. I tend to start off with a painting, drawing or a scan of foliage, and place these into photoshop to edit into a repeat. I’m heavily inspired by maximalist opulence, and antique period designs referencing artists like William Morris and companies like Timorous Beasties. I find my love for period design in the library, where i allow myself to learn about patterns from the past and create something new from that inspiration.
What brings you joy?
Nature is a heavy influence that brings joy into creating. I’m inspired by drawing from my surroundings and using natural sources in my work. I think it’s key to go outside to source primary research, and experience what you are designing. This helps me feel more connected with my work as I can recognise where each motif comes from.
Which is your favourite market(s) to design for and why?
Designing for interiors, specifically wallpaper is my main goal. It allows the ability to create drama and opulence on large surface areas. Naturally, the first thing I look at when walking into a room is the walls, and seeing the interiors in sometimes unexpected places can be key for my research and understanding of colour and scale. Wallpaper sets the tone and overall vibe of an interior, telling a visual story, and I find joy in recreating this.
What’s your dream design gig?
Digital Surface Pattern Designer for an opulent interiors
What are some recent design successes or achievements that you’re proud of?
Most recently would be my selection for New Designers and receiving this opportunity with Make It In Design. During the same month I was also given an opportunity to do a project with Blinds2go and have a Portfolio review with the designers at Sainsbury’s, both of these were influential for advice and industry experience. Earlier in the year I was also a prize winner for a competition run by Keith and Mark, founders of the Mini Moderns wallpaper company. In this competition I had really challenged my digital and screen printing skills. I was very proud of what I had achieved.
Best tip/advice for those new to design
If you are looking for a digital direction, it’s really important to teach yourself as much adobe software as possible as it will bring you majorly ahead of the game. If you are looking at print based design it is worth taking the time in the beginner stages to teach yourself how to colour match as it’s one of the biggest time wasters if you cannot do it right.
How do you stay motivated?
Sticking to a routine and giving myself a deadline keeps me motivated to reach my targets. However I also find it important to give myself a couple days in the week to let my brain focus on something else, perhaps a leisure activity, to refresh myself. This seems to help me come up with new ideas and solve problems when stuck.
Find out more about Kate here: Website | Instagram
Did you exhibit at New Designers 2023? Get in touch via [email protected] as we have a special discount just for you!
