The visit was led by Mark Brettschneider, who focused on key areas including upholstery, craftsmanship, and the practical considerations involved in specifying products for commercial environments.
The students were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the manufacturing process, following each stage from cutting and sewing through to final upholstery. Seeing these steps in person gave them a clearer understanding of the skill, precision, and coordination required to bring a product from concept to completion. The group also toured the showroom with members of the team, where they could see finished pieces in a real-world context and understand how design decisions translate into final applications.
Throughout the visit, students asked thoughtful and detailed questions that reflected both curiosity and a growing technical awareness. Topics included the differences in leather sizes sourced from various countries, how metal selections are made during the design process, and why pattern matching plays such an important role in achieving a high-quality finished product. These discussions highlighted the level of detail that goes into every decision and the balance between aesthetics, performance, and practicality.
The visit was an opportunity to connect education with industry, giving students valuable insight into the realities of commercial design and manufacturing. Experiences like this help bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice, equipping the next generation of designers with knowledge they can carry forward into their careers.
The future of design sits with these students, and it is encouraging to see such strong engagement and enthusiasm.