Interview: Designing for Events30.09.19
Timebased has a talented team of in-house designers. Here's a chat with one of such, Events Designer Christianna Mason, on her experiences and her tips for others in the industry.
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE WORDS:
Optimistic, practical, and calm.
HOW DID YOU ENTER THE FIELD OF DESIGN?
I studied Theatre Design at Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, specialising in Set and Costume. It was invaluable training for how to dissect and design an atmosphere and emotion, paired with essential practical and technical skills. I’ve also always been interested in interior design and public art, so Events seemed to marry all my interests perfectly.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT DESIGNING FOR EVENTS?
Being project-based you’re never sitting still, the work is always eclectic and fast-paced!
WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU FACE?
Time - working in a fast-paced environment is exciting but it also means you can have a short lead time, so it’s about balancing creativity and pace.
As designers we’re constantly inventing and reinterpreting so it’s important to update your bank of references regularly
WHERE DO YOU FIND YOUR INSPIRATION?
I tend to start a brief by pulling out materials and colours from our samples cupboards – it helps ground the design in something more tangible and sets the tone.
Outside of work I often head to an art exhibition or museum for an aesthetic refresh, and in London you’re spoilt for choice. As designers we’re constantly inventing and reinterpreting so it’s important to update your bank of references regularly, and be aware of where and why certain trends are happening.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON AT THE MOMENT?
I’m designing a miniature version of Covent Garden Market as a photobooth moment. It’s interesting to work through what materials work for what environments.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING YOU’VE CREATED IN YOUR PAST EXPERIENCE?
I created an immersive installation that explored the concept of the ‘Home’. It looked at the ever-evolving content we carry with us and the personal archaeology we leave behind.
DO YOU HAVE ANY INSIGHT FOR BUDDING DESIGNERS?
Start practising your technical skills as soon as possible - familiarise yourself with Adobe Suite (the online tutorials are great), and AutoCAD or Vectorworks. Also, get to know your materials and their constraints/potentials – like average wood sheet/timber sizes.
Need some help with designs for your event? Get in touch.
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