From classroom creativity to product and furniture design

Published 17th July 2026

How design and technology sparked a creative career

Product and furniture designer Lily Tham is encouraging young people to embrace creativity, experimentation and curiosity, reflecting on how design and technology at school laid the foundations for her career.

Now a Product and Furniture Design graduate from Kingston University, Lily credits GCSE design and technology (textiles) with inspiring her passion for designing and making. She describes the subject as creative, practical and challenging, helping her discover a way of thinking that suited her. Continuing with Product Design at A-Level, she remained committed to hands-on design despite the disruption caused by the COVID pandemic.

For design and technology teachers, Lily's story is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact classroom experiences can have. She also highlights the importance of teacher guidance, explaining that a recommendation from one of her teachers led her to explore Kingston University's Product and Furniture Design course, which ultimately became her first choice.

Encouraging curiosity, experimentation and resilience

Lily's work is inspired by everyday interactions, with a particular interest in experimenting with materials and uncovering the potential of waste streams. She believes some of the most innovative ideas emerge through hands-on exploration, where unexpected discoveries can shape the final outcome.

She also encourages students to keep an open mind about future careers, reassuring them that they do not need to have everything planned. Instead, she advises them to try different creative disciplines, embrace experimentation and build a strong portfolio by documenting both finished projects and the design process.

For teachers, Lily's journey reinforces the value of providing opportunities for practical problem-solving, material exploration and independent thinking. By encouraging students to observe the world around them, take creative risks and reflect on their work, design and technology teachers can help nurture the confidence and skills that open doors to rewarding careers in design.

Teachers can access the PDF version of this article, featured in Designing 133 below and download their digital copy of the magazine here.