Hosted at Viabizzuno Lighting studio, the exhibition brought to a climax the group’s SHOPTALK project, forming part of their final-year of study on their respective courses.

“The SHOPTALK project commenced in October, when the students attended a practical workshop day, organised by Marks & Spencer’s Global Retail Design Manager, Paul Brackstone,” said Interior Design Course Leader, Dawn Hesketh-Joslin.

“The event took place at Marks & Spencer’s design consultants, DisplayPlan Ltd and was supported by a site visit to Chilfen Joinery Ltd.

“Following on from the inspiration day and over a period of ten weeks, both the Interior Design and Advertising Design students developed their 2D and 3D design ideas to produce comprehensive design schemes.

“This was then edited down to produce A1 size posters for the exhibition, showing the interface between retail space and brand application. The retail products explored included chocolate, perfume and tea.”

The exhibition was also attended by retail design experts, including representatives from Marks & Spencer and DisplayPlan.

Vivienne Cherry, Advertising Course Leader, added: “The SHOPTALK project was great for both the Interior Design and Advertising Design students. It was an opportunity to replicate the relationship between 2D and 3D designers, which is how professional practice works, and an excellent chance for students to develop their presentation and networking skills.

“Marks & Spencer were so impressed with the quality of design work on display; they are keen to invite one student from each course to further develop their project ideas, and present it to their in-house design department.”