Concept and Development Designer

Exceptional sculpture begins with inspired design. Turning an idea into something real takes both creativity and precision. We're looking for a Concept & Development Designer to join our team, taking ideas from initial sketches and concepts through 3D visualisation, CAD and detailed production drawings to create beautifully resolved pieces. It's a creative and technical role at the heart of our design process, working across Classic, Bespoke and New Product Development within an established British luxury design studio where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary design.   The successful candidate will be able to take an initial idea or brief and develop it through the design process from research, sketching and concept development, through 3D modelling and high-quality renders in Keyshot, to fully resolved SolidWorks models and accurate production drawings ready for manufacture.  You will work closely with the Design, Sales, Marketing, Operations and Production teams to ensure that designs are not only visually compelling and aligned with the David Harber aesthetic, but are also technically achievable, accurately documented and commercially viable.  The role will suit someone who is equally comfortable thinking creatively and solving technical problems, with a strong eye for proportion, detail, materials and finish alongside excellent engineering and CAD skills.  Key Responsibilities  Concept Design & Visualisation 

• Develop creative design concepts in response to briefs for Classic, Bespoke and NPD projects. 
• Produce initial sketches and communicate ideas clearly to stakeholders. 
• Develop concepts into cohesive design proposals and presentation materials. 
• Create high-quality 3D models, CAD visuals and renders to communicate design intent using Keyshot. 
• Produce Photoshop imagery, presentation boards and other visual material to support Sales and Marketing. 
• Explore materials, construction methods, proportions, colour and surface finishes as part of the design development process. 
• Ensure that all design solutions are consistent with the David Harber brand, aesthetic and level of quality. 
• Research relevant design, art, architectural and market trends to inform new concepts.  Engineering & Product Development 
• Work with the Design Team Leader and Production Engineer to translate creative concepts into technically viable products suitable for manufacture. 
• Develop detailed 3D models and assemblies using SolidWorks. 
• Produce accurate manufacturing and production drawings, including relevant dimensions, tolerances, materials and specifications. 
• Resolve engineering and manufacturing challenges during the development process. 
• Work closely with Production and Operations to ensure designs can be manufactured efficiently and to the required quality. 
• Research and evaluate appropriate materials, manufacturing processes and technologies. 
• Develop and improve existing products, identifying opportunities to improve design, functionality, manufacture and quality. 
• Liaise with Production and Operations to support accurate costing and ensure designs remain commercially viable. 
• Ensure design documentation is complete, accurate and suitable for production.  Project & Stakeholder Management 
• Work closely with Sales, Marketing, Operations and Production to understand and respond to project briefs. 
• Present design concepts, recommendations and technical solutions to stakeholders. 
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, balancing NPD, Bespoke, Classic product development and sales support according to business priorities. 
• Coordinate with relevant teams to ensure design projects remain on programme and agreed deadlines are met. 
• Identify potential technical or manufacturing issues early and work proactively to resolve them. 
• Communicate clearly between the creative and production sides of the business, ensuring design intent is maintained through to manufacture. 
• To attend David Harber exhibitions, shows and events where required. 
• Where appropriate, support and provide guidance to other designers and external design resource.  Qualifications & Skills  Essential 
• Relevant experience in product design, design engineering or product development. 
• Strong experience using SolidWorks and Keyshot  
• Ability to produce accurate and detailed production/manufacturing drawings. 
• Strong 3D modelling and technical drawing skills. 
• Proven ability to take a product from initial concept through to production. 
• Excellent eye for aesthetic design, proportion, detail and customer appeal. 
• Creative and innovative approach to design. 
• Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes and construction. 
• Excellent attention to detail. 
• Meticulous, organised and diligent approach to work. 
• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities within tight deadlines. 
• Strong communication skills and the ability to present and explain design ideas clearly.  Desirable 
• Experience producing high-quality product renders and visualisations. 
• Experience with Photoshop or other image-editing software. 
• Experience within furniture, sculpture, architectural products, luxury goods or a similar design-led manufacturing environment. 
• Knowledge of colour, surface finishes and material combinations. 
• Experience working with bespoke or highly customised products. 
• Understanding of costing and commercial considerations within product development. 
• Degree or equivalent qualification in Product Design, Industrial Design, Engineering or a related discipline.