Placement Reflective Report_Yourim Park

REFLE CTIVE

Report

INTRO. MAMELL

29. 07. 2022 - 01. 03. 2023

Yonsei University

02. 03. 2023 - 21. 06. 2023

This reflective report encapsulates my transformative experiences during the placement year, where I engaged in two distinctive roles. The first role immersed me in the dynamic world of interior, furniture, and product design within a professional company. The second role unfolded as I ventured into the academic realm at Yonsei University, where I delved into the captivating field of Life Design and Arts as a student.

Each placement offered a unique set of challenges and opportunities, fostering personal and professional growth. Through this report, I aim to delve into the insights gained, the skills honed, and the transformative journey that unfolded throughout this impactful year. This reflective account will provide a comprehensive overview of my placement experiences, showcasing not only my accomplishments but also the valuable lessons and perspectives I have acquired.

02 03 04 05 & UNIVERSITY

THE COMPANY. MAMELL

29. 07. 2022 - 01. 03. 2023

Company Introduction

Mamel Co., Ltd. is an enterprise operating in the fields of furniture, interior, and product design, dedicated to curating diverse and harmonious spaces. Mamel predominantly focuses on creating custom-made furniture, tailored to customers' individual preferences and needs, promoting an eclectic style that aspires to bring out the perfect blend of items.

Moreover, in addition to furniture, Mamel enhances spaces by incorporating various living accessories such as curtains, rugs, cushions, and artworks to create eye-catching focal points.

Drawing on its extensive experience in interior design, Mamel offers space styling consulting services, providing comprehensive support to clients for diverse spaces, including residential, commercial, and exhibition spaces. The company emphasizes online activities, leveraging platforms like Instagram and an online store. Consequently, I was heavily involved in tasks such as website development, communication with customers, and order processing.

Occasionally, due to some customers visiting our physical office to view furniture in person, I also actively participated in offline store interior decoration in collaboration with fellow colleagues.

Products and Services

The company primarily offers custommade furniture and living accessories, tailoring designs to suit customer preferences. Additionally, it provides interior design and space styling consulting services to enhance and create aesthetically pleasing spaces.

Company History, Current Status, and Market Position

With a longstanding history, Mamel has garnered an excellent reputation in the interior and furniture design industry. It currently holds a unique position in the market and enjoys the trust and admiration of its customers.

Competitors, Suppliers, Customers

Mamel collaborates with competitors and maintains close ties with suppliers to deliver high-quality products to customers. The company has built relationships with a diverse customer base, offering customized designs and services to meet their varied requirements.

Organizational Structure of the Company

Mamel has a structured organizational setup aimed at efficient operations and is composed of various departments and teams. This organization is geared towards delivering top-notch services and products to customers.

02. 03. 2023 - 21. 06. 2023

UNIVERSITY. Yonsei University

Activities at Yonsei University's Human Environment and Design

During my placement year, I had the opportunity to engage in various activities at Yonsei University's Human Environment and Design in Seoul, South Korea. I would like to provide detailed insights into my experiences, including coursework, campus activities, and club involvement.

Coursework

Light and Color Design Course: In this course, I delved into the theories of color and light. Projects like "my stripe style" and "Color in the movie - LALA LAND" allowed me to explore the significance of color in design, particularly through the lens of the film "La La Land."

Speculative Design Course: This course introduced the fundamentals of speculative design, encouraging creative ideation. Collaborative group projects provided opportunities to share and develop innovative design concepts.

3D Digital Design Course: I learned 3D modeling and rendering using Fusion 360 and KeyShot. This course included designing and presenting personal projects, such as the iPhone SE and AirPods models.

Campus Activities

Campus Strolls and Scenic Views: Yonsei University's picturesque campus offered delightful moments for leisurely strolls and enjoying the sunshine, creating a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation.

Relationships with Korean Professors and Students

Interactions with Korean professors enriched my academic experience and provided cultural insights. Collaborative learning environments encouraged camaraderie among students, promoting a cooperative learning atmosphere. These experiences deepened my understanding of Korean culture and customs.

Club Involvement

Participation in University Clubs: Yonsei University boasts a vibrant club culture, and I enthusiastically joined clubs aligned with my interests. This allowed me to interact with Korean students, fostering cultural exchange and building friendships.

Conclusion of Activities

My time at Yonsei University's Human Environment and Design was a valuable opportunity for diverse experiences and knowledge acquisition. It allowed me to actively explore both academic and cultural aspects of South Korea, contributing significantly to my personal and academic growth.

MY ROLE. MAMELL

29. 07. 2022 - 01. 03. 2023

My Role at Mamel Co., Ltd. during Internship

During my internship at Mamel Co., Ltd., a furniture, interior, and product design company, I held the position of an intern. Here, I will provide insights into my role within the company's structure, my job functions, and some examples of the work and projects I was involved in, including visual media, drawings, sketches, spec sheets, and CAD work.

Website Development: Collaborated with the IT team to enhance the company's website, focusing on design and user experience.

Customer Communication: Addressed customer inquiries, provided product information, and ensured effective customer service.

Order Processing: Managed customer orders, coordinating with production and logistics teams for timely delivery.

Offline Store Decor: Assisted in creating an attractive in-person store experience for customers.

I contributed to visual content, CAD design, spec sheets, and supported ongoing design projects, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the design industry.

02

02. 03. 2023 - 21. 06. 2023

MY ROLE. Yonsei University

My Role at Yonsei University's Human Environment and Design

During my time at Yonsei University's Human Environment and Design, I took on various roles and responsibilities, including:

Student and Learner: As a student, my primary role was to actively engage in the learning process. I attended lectures, participated in class discussions, and completed assignments to expand my knowledge and skills in the field of lifestyle design.

Researcher: I conducted research for assignments and projects, delving into topics related to light and color design, speculative design, and 3D digital design. This role allowed me to explore and analyze relevant information to inform my design concepts.

Creative Designer: coursework in design subjects, I embraced the role of a creative designer. I conceptualized and developed design projects, which included creating visual media, drawings, sketches, spec sheets, and CAD work, all tailored to meet specific design objectives.

Overall, my role at Yonsei University's Human Environment and Design encompassed being a dedicated student, an active participant in campus life, a creative designer, and a cultural enthusiast. These roles collectively shaped my enriching experience at the university.

CASE STUDY. MAMELL

29. 07. 2022 - 01. 03. 2023

During my internship at Mamel Co., Ltd., I had the opportunity to observe and contribute to a case study project aimed at redefining eclectic living spaces. The objective was to create a seamless blend of diverse furniture pieces, catering to the individual tastes and preferences of potential customers.

Project Overview:

Client and Proposed Customer Base: The client was an urbanbased demographic seeking unique and customized furniture solutions for modern living spaces. This included young professionals, families, and individuals passionate about interior aesthetics

Visual Media / Drawings / Sketches / Photographs: The project involved extensive visual media, including mood boards, 3D models, and concept sketches. These visuals were crucial in conveying design ideas and eliciting feedback from the client and internal teams.

Design Development and Detailed Design Information: The design development stage integrated various design elements such as color schemes, material choices, and furniture arrangements. Detailed design information included CAD drawings, material specifications, and mock-ups, aiding in precise execution.

Marketing Sources and Costings: The marketing strategy encompassed online platforms like the company's with the target market's

website, social media, and online marketplaces. Additionally, costings were meticulously calculated to ensure the project aligned with the client's budget constraints while maintaining quality.

Special Resources: Mamel Co., Ltd., being located in a design-centric region, had access to specialized furniture manufacturing units, skilled artisans, and a vast network of suppliers. These resources significantly contributed to the successful realization of the project.

Key Learning Outcomes:

Client Understanding: Through this project, I gained insights into comprehending client needs and tailoring design solutions to match their preferences and lifestyle.

Effective Use of Visual Aids: The importance of utilizing visual aids like sketches and 3D models to effectively communicate design concepts and receive constructive feedback from stakeholders.

Detailed Design Information: Understanding the significance of providing detailed design information, including CAD drawings and material specifications, for efficient execution and meeting quality standards.

Market Alignment and Cost Management: Learning how to align designs with the target market's expectations and effectively managing costs to ensure project feasibility and profitability.

Optimizing Special Resources: Utilizing the company's location-based advantages, such as skilled artisans and a robust supply chain, to enhance the project's efficiency and overall quality.

Participating in this case study project at Mamel Co., Ltd. enriched my understanding of design execution, client engagement, and the strategic elements involved in creating customized furniture solutions for a discerning clientele.

02. 03. 2023 - 21. 06. 2023

Light and Color Design Project:

Visual Media/Drawings/ Sketches/Photographs: In Light and Color Design, I used lighting plans, color sketches, and photographs to illustrate the interaction between light

I engaged in case study projects during my time at Yonsei University's Department of Human Environment and Design, connecting various design courses and understanding key learning outcomes. Below are three projects that reflect this:

CASE STUDY. Yonsei University

Design Development and Detailed Design Information/ Marketing Sources: In this project, I developed detailed information about lighting design and marketing materials to effectively present design concepts to clients and

Special Resources from the School: The school provided access to special resources such as a lighting lab and color lab to support this project.

Speculative Design Project:

Visual Media/Drawings/Sketches/ Photographs: In Speculative Design, I conveyed design concepts through sketches and design visualizations. Sketches and design drawings played a crucial role in visualizing ideas.

Design Development and Detailed Design Information/Marketing Sources: The project documented the development of speculative design concepts and detailed design information. Marketing materials were created to clearly communicate design ideas to clients and collaborators.

Special Resources from the School: The school offered access to design studios and technical labs as special resources to support the Speculative Design project.

3D Digital Design Project:

Visual Media/Drawings/Sketches/ Photographs: In 3D Digital Design, I used CAD software to visually present design models. These models documented the design development process visually.

Design Development and Detailed Design Information/Marketing Sources: The project utilized 3D digital design models and detailed design information to create design development and marketing materials. This demonstrated the feasibility of the design.

Special Resources from the School: The school provided access to CAD labs and 3D printing facilities as special resources to support the 3D Digital Design project.

SPECIFIC LEARNING. MAMELL

29. 07. 2022 - 01. 03. 2023

My internship at Mamel Co., Ltd. was an incredible learning experience that enriched my skill set and knowledge in various aspects:

Technical Skills:

CAD Proficiency: I honed my skills in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, specifically in creating detailed furniture designs and schematics. This technical skill is invaluable for precise design execution.

E-commerce and Website Development: I gained handson experience in managing the company's online presence. This included website development, optimizing user interfaces, and using e-commerce platforms, which are crucial in today's digital age.

Interpersonal Skills:

Team Collaboration: Working within a multidisciplinary team was a significant aspect of my internship. I learned to collaborate effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, share ideas, and resolve challenges collectively.

Client Communication: I improved my ability to engage with clients, understand their needs, and provide prompt and efficient customer service. Effective client communication is essential for delivering tailored solutions.

Knowledge Enhancement:

Furniture Design: My knowledge of furniture design principles expanded significantly, encompassing factors like ergonomics, aesthetics, and materials. This deepened understanding is valuable for creating functional and visually appealing furniture.

E-commerce and Marketing: I gained insights into e-commerce strategies and digital marketing practices, including social media management and online advertising. This knowledge is vital in promoting products and expanding market reach.

Future Contacts and Information:

I established valuable professional contacts during my internship, including colleagues, clients, and industry experts. These connections will serve as a resource for future collaborations and reference.

I also acquired information about emerging technologies and industry-specific practices, such as sustainable design trends and cost-effective manufacturing methods. Staying updated on these trends is crucial for a dynamic career in design.

In summary, my internship at Mamel Co., Ltd. provided me with a holistic learning experience, enhancing both technical and interpersonal skills, expanding my knowledge, and offering valuable contacts and insights into industry practices and emerging technologies. These learnings will undoubtedly contribute to my future endeavors in the field of design.

02. 03. 2023 - 21. 06. 2023

SPECIFIC LEARNING. Yonsei University

During my time at Yonsei University's Department of Human Environment and Design, I gained specific learning outcomes that were seamlessly connected across my courses in Lighting and Color Design, Speculative Design, and 3D Digital Design.

In Light and Color Design, I developed a deep understanding of color theory, including color harmony, contrast, and the psychological effects of colors. This knowledge enhanced my ability to create visually appealing and emotionally impactful designs.

Through Speculative Design, I honed my creative problemsolving skills. I learned to think critically, challenge conventions, and explore unconventional design solutions. This mindset has been invaluable in approaching design challenges from unique angles.

In 3D Digital Design, I acquired technical proficiency in CAD software and 3D modeling. This technical skillset enabled me to translate design concepts into precise digital models, enhancing the precision and accuracy of my work.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Across all courses, I learned the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds provided me with a broader perspective and enriched my design process.

Effective Communication: Through presenting my designs and ideas to classmates and professors, I improved my communication skills. This includes conveying design concepts through visual media, drawings, and verbal explanations, crucial for effective teamwork and client interactions.

Project Management: Managing multiple projects simultaneously, as required in these courses, improved my project management skills. I learned to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and efficiently allocate resources.

Cultural Sensitivity: Interacting with international classmates and Korean professors in these courses exposed me to different cultural perspectives, fostering cultural sensitivity and adaptability.

Resource Utilization: Leveraging special resources such as labs and equipment provided by the school, I learned how to optimize available resources to enhance the quality of my designs.

In summary, the Yonsei University's Department of Human Environment and Design curriculum, including courses in Light and Color Design, Speculative Design, and 3D Digital Design, not only enhanced my technical skills but also nurtured my creativity, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication. These comprehensive learning outcomes have equipped me with a well-rounded skillset essential for a successful career in the field of design.

APPENDIX. MAMELL