Work Experience Spotlight: Beauty-Jessica’s Time with Our Team

It was an absolute pleasure to welcome and host Beauty Jessica last week for a week of work experience. Beauty is currently taking a gap year from her Architecture degree at the University of Kent to gain further experience and knowledge within the design industry. We were delighted to have her join our team – so let’s find out what she got up to.

Why did you approach Rap Interiors to be considered for work experience?

I was introduced to Rap Interiors through a friend and decided to approach the company after noticing their inspirational fit out projects. As a commercial interior design and fit out company, Rap Interiors stood out to me, and I was eager for the opportunity to learn more about the commercial interior design industry from their team.

What did you work on during your time at Rap Interiors?

During my time at Rap Interiors, I was given a live project for one of their clients and tasked with creating my own design proposal. The office fit out project was for a client operating in the fresh produce market who is relocating to a larger space to support their continued growth.

As part of the project, I drafted initial floor plans before developing and drawing up a final option. I then created mood boards to further illustrate the colours, themes, and overall atmosphere that would best reflect the company’s values and branding.

Alongside this, I attended team and supplier meetings, which gave me valuable insight into the full design process from initial concept through to final execution.

What have you learnt from your work experience?

I have gained a deeper understanding of the interior design process, including developing design proposals, carrying out site surveys, and attending client meetings to ensure projects meet the client’s brief and remain on programme. I have also explored the world of commercial furniture and flooring, learning how both elements can significantly enhance a space while requiring a careful balance between budget, aesthetics, and functionality.

I have thoroughly enjoyed working in an office with such a close-knit, family feel, and seeing the different departments – from design and marketing to accounts and health and safety – collaborate to bring projects to fruition for their clients. Everyone at Rap has been incredibly warm, kind, and supportive, and I would highly recommend Rap Interiors to anyone seeking experience within the design sector.

What are your plans for your next steps? How do plan to use your learning experience as you move forward?

I plan to use the experience and knowledge I have gained at Rap Interiors to build my design portfolio during this year out from university. I plan to return to university in September to resume my architecture degree and continue my studies by completing a Master’s in either architecture, interior design, or design more broadly.

This summer, I also plan to gain further work experience within the design industry to build my confidence and develop expertise across different areas of design, helping me become a more well-rounded designer.

Let’s hear from the Rap team

It was a pleasure to host Beauty-Jessica for her week of work experience. She was enthusiastic and eager to learn throughout her time with us. The designs and mood boards she produced were of high quality, and her ability to articulate the reasoning behind her choices was both impressive and professional. All feedback given was taken on board and applied brilliantly.

We have no doubt that Beauty will continue to succeed in her higher education. We wish her the very best of luck and look forward to hearing about her future progress. Huge congratulations again!

Alice Carr – Design Manager, Rap Interiors