Design Advice from Tim Sutherland of StudioBrave

Here at Shillington we’re big fans of StudioBrave. #shillomel student Mandy Yong even sang their praises in an #ILoveTheseGuys earlier this year. So you can imagine our excitement when Founder & Creative Director Tim Sutherland stopped in for a guest lecture!

We loved the straight-forward advice throughout his presentation. No doubt these 10 lessons will resonate with all designers—whether you’re just starting out well into your career. Enjoy Tim’s words and work!

1. Brave thinking leads to unexpected outcomes.
2. Have a good brief. If you don’t get one from your client—it’s your job to make one.
3. Don’t have your blinkers on. Look for inspiration outside your client’s industry.
4. Whatever is expected, identify that, then turn it on its head.
5. Trust your instincts.
6. Provide what the client asked for, but add something unexpected. Challenge the brief.
7. Don’t get stuck on one thing. Try lots of ideas.
8. Know when to fight and when to left go. Sometimes it’s better to save that energy for other projects.
9. Only present concepts that you would be happy if the client chose.
10. Be remembered. I’d much rather have work loved or hated than not remembered.

Big thanks again to Tim Sutherland. Be sure to visit the StudioBrave website and follow them on Twitter and Instagram!