Solent students shine in national design awards

Established in 1964, Starpack Students is a competition that challenges students to design solutions to problems set by brand-leading FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods) companies, design agencies and manufacturers.

The seven shortlisted BA (Hons) Graphic Design students are Toby Lucas, Lily Waldron-Cooper, Poppy Wilson-Smith, Louis Ross, Luzy Hilger, Anna Demirgil and Cara Knoy.

Chris Venables, Senior Lecturer in Visual Communication, says:

“Solent is committed to identifying platforms that allow students to showcase their work to future employers. The Starpack Student Awards are an excellent opportunity for students to present their innovative ideas and solutions to an industry that is looking for rising stars.”

“We are incredibly proud of the shortlisted students. They have worked so hard on their submissions – which not only included surface design, but also materials and the manufacturing process. We wish them all good luck at the award ceremony.”

The students had seven categories to choose from – ranging from a metal box for biscuits to a multiple car care pack and a reuse/refill Ribena concentrate bottle – and had to submit work that considered:

• Recyclability of packaging
• Customer appeal
• Recycled content
• Environmental impact in the manufacturing packaging (carbon and water)
• Suitability of the pack for customer returns
• Labelling (e.g. recycling information on the pack)
• Responsible sourcing
• Credibility

For her submission, Lily Waldron-Cooper chose the design concept for a metal biscuit tin aimed at high-end stores. She chose the brand name ‘Afternoon’, inspired by afternoon tea, an activity once associated with luxury. The design of the tin and brand elements are inspired by a combination of French carousel design and macarons – a biscuit associated with indulgence and elegance.

It was her first time using 3D modelling software and creating packaging design, and she is proud of what she achieved. “I am most proud of the 3D model itself, as it is evidence of many hours of research, patience, and having faith in my own abilities. It was a fun learning experience that I am very grateful for,” says Lily.

Toby Lucas’ submission was for an e-commerce packaging design for occasion wear. The aim was to develop packaging for an online-only fashion brand that would protect clothing during transit, minimise creasing, and enhance the customer’s unboxing experience.

“My concept involved designing a sleek, minimalist box made from recycled materials sourced through a partnership with a recycling organisation – making it both sustainable and cost-effective,” says Toby.

He was inspired by modern eco-conscious design and high-end branding, such as Apple’s packaging – well known for its premium unboxing experience.

“The biggest challenge was tackling the structural and material elements of packaging – as a graphic design student, it pushed me beyond just visuals. I’m especially proud of the concept itself – it’s simple, effective, and built around sustainability,” says Toby.

Looking back at his time at university, Toby says, “Solent has really helped me grow – not just creatively, but also as a person. It’s taught me to be more independent, make my own decisions, and prepare for life after university.”

Commenting on his shortlisting, he says, “Being shortlisted has given me confidence and will help me get my work noticed. To know that my project stood out among other entries is honestly amazing and has motivated me to keep pushing forward and have confidence in my work.”

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Barbican on Wednesday 2 July.