Jason's dream start at Ted Baker

BA (Hons) Interior Design Decoration graduate, Jason Livingstone landed a dream job at Ted Baker even before he attended his graduation ceremony. Here, he tells us what his role involves, and how his degree helped prepare him for the industry.

How did university prepare you for your career?

By providing first class teaching, access to state of the art equipment/technology and real world experiences throughout the degree.

What's your favourite Solent memory?

The moment when I handed in my Final Major Project along with my classmates. The accumulation of three years’ worth of projects, essays, and presentations, alongside laughter, tears and friendship. It was a huge achievement for me as someone who's struggled with education throughout my life. 

Tell us about your career story so far?

I'm one of the lucky few who can say they got a position even before attending graduation! So far at Ted Baker I've jumped straight in at the deep end designing concessions and pop-up events for the company. Concession design is anything 'Ted' you see inside department stores like Selfridges, John Lewis or even Galerie Lafayette in Paris. I've been working on projects in the UK, Spain, France, Ukraine and Germany designing a range of store designs, both men’s and women’s. As part of the job role, each designer is the project manager for that project - from concept to installation, to the final details of props and styling on site.   

As a Ted designer, you have to be able to manage a number of projects at once, while communicating with suppliers, builders and department stores. I'm so lucky to have been able to have an incredible start in the design world with such a well-known and respected brand as Ted Baker. 

What is interior design decoration?

It's the process of design from concept to completion, encompassing everything from colour, lighting, fixtures and fittings, to the finishing details.

What tips would you give to someone wanting a career in your industry?

Pick the right degree for you. A course that fits your needs, personality and interests. Without a fundamental understanding of the industry and a solid degree course I think it would be difficult to gain access to the industry and sustain a long career. Passion is something you can't fake. You have to absolutely love it. For anyone truly interested in the field, this will come naturally.