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Industrial design intern makes his mark in Germany
April 2009
Edward Linacre never imagined how far his Bachelor of Design (Industrial Design) would
take him. Last year he spent a semester on exchange at the HAWK University for Applied
Science and Art in Hildesheim, Germany, where he won a furniture design prize.
He’s now working as an intern for wiege – an independent design studio – as part of the
Faculty of Design’s Industry Placement program. Before Edward returns to Melbourne in August to commence his honours year, we asked
him to give us an insight into his European adventure.
Industrial design is a thriving industry across Europe. My entire perspective on design has changed and my understanding of the industry has grown immensely – not only as a result of my placement at wiege and the semester on exchange, but having had the opportunity to live and travel in Europe.
Further enriching my experience, I was sent by both HAWK and wiege to several design exhibitions throughout Germany.
HAWK played a vital role in getting my industry placement at wiege and staff were on hand at every turn to provide advice and industry contacts.
The level of influence HAWK holds within the industry and their willingness to support new talent are just two of the many reasons why I’d recommend HAWK Hildesheim as an exchange destination.
wiege evolved from the design division of Wilkhahn, a well-known German office furniture manufacturer, and is located on site in Bad Münde. As a result, I’ve been exposed to all stages of the development process: from the initial sketching and brainstorming with engineers to the actual manufacture and assembly of products.
The working environment is team-oriented and everyone has an input on all projects. I’ve been assigned a six-month brief to research and develop an innovative super-lightweight furniture system.
The team’s attention to detail and thorough design process is inspiring. Every possible detail is scrutinised until the whole team is satisfied. Initially, I found working to this standard challenging. No exceptions were made for my being an intern and when it came to providing constructive criticism during my presentations this could be quite intimidating.
My recent presentations however have been highly successful, thanks to the consistent input and guidance of the team and a lot of hard work. I have come to realise you have to prove your worth in Germany before you are accepted, respected and invited out for a drink.
wiege also has a strong environmental philosophy. Gaining experience in an international company that realises its environmental impact has helped strengthen my understanding of responsible, sustainable, ecologically orientated design.
My time overseas has shown me how imperative it is for Australian design students to gain international experience. It’s also become apparent how important design is to the growing social, economic, cultural and environmental concerns of today.
I am grateful that Swinburne is of an international standard that enables its students to have these opportunities.