Leeds Beckett Product Design students take on industry-led challenge with Redbrick

As part of the collaboration, second-year BA (Hons) Product Design students have been briefed to design an original piece of furniture tailored to a Redbrick customer. The winning design will be produced by manufacturing partner Vale Bridgecraft and unveiled at Redbrick in February 2026, with the potential for a full route to market.

The project began with an immersive visit to the Redbrick complex, which houses major brands including Heal's, Oka, BoConcept, Roche Bobois and Loaf. The experience offered students a real-world insight into contemporary furniture retail and helped spark ideas grounded in innovation, quality and user experience.

Students presented their early concepts to industry professionals from Redbrick and Zofa, a contemporary furniture retailer based within the destination. Following expert critique, eight concepts were shortlisted, and students worked in pairs to refine their proposals for potential manufacture.

A subsequent visit to Vale Bridgecraft in Hebden Bridge gave students hands-on experience of production processes. Working alongside the in-house product designer, they explored materials, craftsmanship, budgeting and routes to market, gaining a deeper understanding of what it takes to turn a concept into a commercial product.

A panel of judges will select one final design for manufacture in early 2026, with the finished piece showcased at Redbrick shortly afterwards.

Robin Brinkworth, Senior Lecturer of Design at Leeds Beckett University, highlighted the value of the project for student development. He said: "The second year of the BA (Hons) Product Design programme has a focus on building professional practice skills to prepare students for work in the creative industry. This wouldn't be possible without the generosity of our partners. Study visits, feedback from professionals and opportunities to develop design work for manufacture within established furniture production environments all add richness to the learning experience of our students."

Alastair Bailey, Managing Director at Redbrick, emphasised the company's commitment to nurturing new talent. He said: "Redbrick has always been passionate about design-led retail experiences and supporting emerging, young talent. This project is a pivotal examples of how we can help young designers turn their ideas and concepts into tangible, viable products."

John Hampton, Operator at Zofa, added: "This partnership with Leeds Beckett University and Redbrick represents supporting young designers as they bring their ideas to life - it's not only rewarding but essential to the future of British furniture design and craftsmanship."

Find out more about BA (Hons) Product Design at Leeds School of Arts