Hugh Smith

Professional furniture designer-maker Hugh can be found working in the 3D workshop on Saturdays where he is keen to help students realise their creative projects.

During the week I am busy running my own company designing and building high end bespoke furniture to private and commercial clients in Norfolk.  As a small business I am lucky to be part of the whole design process: from defining the specification with the client; through design and refinement; to sourcing materials and the production of the finished piece.  It’s challenging work.  At all points I’m seeing the process through the eyes of both a designer and a maker – it’s a careful balance: how the piece should look and how this can be technically achieved.  I believe this holistic viewpoint is a useful starting point to help students achieve their creative visions here in the 3D workshop. 

After studying Marine Biology to Masters level and working in the offshore industry I had the opportunity to pursue my creative ambitions and studied furniture making at the prestigious Rowden Atelier in Devon. The creative buzz, supportive environment and mentoring relationship I experienced at this formative period have stayed with me and inspired me to become part of the team at Norwich University of the Arts.  I find working with students here a truly rewarding experience: each week I look forward to witnessing all the vibrant creations they produce and I find their enthusiasm motivates me in my own practice.