At a Glance
- Tasks: Join live project teams, sketch, prototype, and explore innovative design ideas.
- Company: Heatherwick Studio, a hub of creative experimentation and boundary-pushing design.
- Benefits: Paid internship, hands-on experience, and mentorship from industry leaders.
- Other info: Open to students at various stages of their design education.
- Why this job: Immerse yourself in a dynamic environment and shape the future of design.
- Qualifications: Creative energy, strong sketching skills, and a passion for design exploration.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
This summer, we are launching the Heatherwick Studio Internship Programme. This is a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in our world of creative experimentation, hands on making, and boundary pushing design thinking. We are looking for students who bring ideas to life through sketches, models, and curiosity. Whether you express yourself boldly or think quietly and carefully, if design is how you question the world and imagine new possibilities, we want to meet you. At Heatherwick Studio, we are not only seeking architectural designers. We welcome creatively charged individuals from a range of design backgrounds, including those who explore through making, communicate visually, and bring fresh perspectives to the table.
What You Will Do
- Contribute to live project teams while learning our design approach
- Sketch, prototype, explore in 3D, research, and present ideas with clarity
- Collaborate with designers, makers, and specialists across the studio
- Learn quickly, ask questions, and develop your own design voice
- Help shape ideas that push the future of design forward
You will work with physical models, sketches, and 3D tools such as Rhino or similar.
What You Bring
- Creative energy and clear thinking
- Confidence with sketching, hand making, and emerging 3D exploration
- Strong conceptual imagination supported by developing analytical skills
- A portfolio that shows process, curiosity, and care rather than perfection
- Motivation to grow quickly, challenge yourself, and embrace feedback
- Resourceful making skills, with models that can be made from any materials
We value original thinking in all forms, whether you are quietly thoughtful or confidently expressive.
Who Should Apply
This programme supports students at different stages of their architectural or design education. Every student brings unique strengths, and the guide below describes the experience we typically expect at each level.
For Year 2 Students
- Strong conceptual thinking and curiosity
- Solid physical model making skills
- Developing confidence with 3D representation
- An emerging design voice shaped through studio projects
- Enthusiasm for hands on learning and comfort asking questions
For Year 4 Students
- Broader exposure to design and technical methods through advanced coursework or previous experience
- Growing confidence with complex 3D workflows and integrated design processes
- A clearer and more defined design approach
- Experience working within collaborative project environments
- The ability to take initiative and move ideas from early concept toward refinement
This is a two‑month paid internship beginning in mid‑June.
Summer Internship Programme employer: Heatherwick Studio
Contact Detail:
Heatherwick Studio Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Summer Internship Programme
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio in shape! Make sure it showcases your creative process and curiosity. Highlight projects that reflect your hands-on skills and unique design voice, as this is what will catch our eye.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past interns and professionals in the field. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for standing out during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to talk about your ideas and how you approach design. We love seeing your passion and thought process, so don’t hold back when discussing your work.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our creative team at Heatherwick Studio.
We think you need these skills to ace Summer Internship Programme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Creative Side: When you're putting together your application, let your creativity shine! Use your portfolio to showcase not just finished pieces, but also the process behind your work. We want to see how you think and explore ideas, so don't hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your written application to reflect the values and style of Heatherwick Studio. Highlight your curiosity and how you approach design challenges. We love seeing applicants who resonate with our ethos of pushing boundaries and experimenting.
Be Clear and Concise: While we appreciate creativity, clarity is key in your written application. Make sure your ideas are communicated clearly and concisely. We want to understand your thought process without getting lost in jargon or overly complex language.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate, so go ahead and get that application in!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heatherwick Studio
✨Show Your Creative Process
When discussing your portfolio, focus on the journey of your projects rather than just the final outcomes. Highlight how you approached each piece, the challenges you faced, and the solutions you found. This will demonstrate your curiosity and resourcefulness, which are key traits they’re looking for.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions about the studio's design philosophy or recent projects. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in their work and eager to learn. It also gives you a chance to express your own ideas and perspectives, aligning with their value of original thinking.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since the internship involves working with various teams, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Talk about specific instances where you contributed to a group project, highlighting your ability to communicate and adapt within a team setting.
✨Demonstrate Your Design Voice
Be prepared to discuss how your unique background influences your design approach. Whether you’re more expressive or thoughtful, articulate how this shapes your work. They want to see your confidence in your design voice, so don’t shy away from sharing your perspective!