Is one design discipline
ever enough?

We've always maintained that our design diversity is our strength. We afford everyone at iDEA the opportunity to use their 'Personal Knowledge and Wellbeing Fund (PKWF) - an initiative to help people branch out into areas they might not usually consider. Here, we join our designer Harry, who used his PKWF to go back to college and study Carpentry & Joinery.  

Harry used his iDEA staff knowledge fund to go back to college to study Level 1 City & Guilds Diploma in Carpentry & Joinery. 

Why carpentry?

I wanted to further my understanding of how things are assembled - with the hope of improving my detail drawing and general 'buildability' knowledge. It also gave me an opportunity to get my creative fix; the main reason for pursuing a creative career, was to make stuff with my hands - this was a great way to get stuck in.

At times, I’ve questioned my commitment during my time at school, college and university - which I suppose isn't uncommon! I'd always wondered how I’d fare if I returned as a mature (committed) student. Using the PKWF gave me a great opportunity to do this.  

Lessons learnt

So what did I learn? Go at your own pace, don’t rush and take off a bit off at a time...don’t hack. The planning and setting out is fundamental. Take the time to prep and maintain equipment before use. Keep a clear and clean work space. Arguably, principles which transcend all levels of design. 

Benefits of the PKWF

The benefits go further than just my understanding from a design-perspective. I feel my understanding of how joinery items are assembled and detailed has improved but also I met a new group of people, who all have a common interest in carpentry. 

It allowed me to take some time for myself to focus on something I enjoy doing - and most importantly, as a result of learning a new skill, I now have a list of ‘projects’ I can do at home.