Review by Jordi Fígols, student on the Professional Master’s Degree in Retail Design & Visual Merchandising
We spoke with Jordi Fígols, a student on the Professional Master’s Degree in Commercial Space Design: Retail Design, to learn more about his experience at ESDESIGN. Jordi is 28 years old, lives in Sant Cugat del Vallès (Barcelona), and before completing his master’s degree at ESDESIGN, he studied architecture.
Hello, Jordi! What do you currently do?
I work as an architect at a studio specialising in the leisure sector.
What is your most special project?
A few years ago, I collaborated with the Catalan architect Josep Ferrando on the creation of the Nest of Culture, a wooden structure located on the Paseo de la Costa in Vicente López (Buenos Aires).
It is made up of four identical staircases rotating centrifugally around its centre, creating a complex labyrinth. It is a project I have always felt especially attached to.
Where do you find inspiration when designing?
Inspiration can come from any medium. Of course, you always have as a reference point what has already been done — that is something one should never forget. From there, you compare, improve, question certain aspects and emphasise others in order to create something entirely new.
But sometimes, inspiration in the concept phase of a project can come from sources not so closely linked to architecture or design, but rather from music, literature, and certain sensations or experiences that can ultimately be translated into design.
What comes to mind when we talk about design in Barcelona?
For example, its wide-ranging museum offering, which is becoming increasingly diverse and extensive. Design is culture, and as such we must take care of it.
Why did you decide to study online? What was the experience like for you?
I was very keen to continue my education. It was 2020, and nobody knew how the pandemic situation would evolve or when we would return to normality. Choosing a master’s degree designed from the ground up to be delivered 100% online gave me a great sense of reassurance and confidence. The experience has been extremely rewarding, interesting, and with fully up-to-date content.
What was your journey through the master’s like?
Intense and highly eye-opening. I had many concerns and interests related to the world of design and retail, which throughout this year have gradually taken shape in the form of projects that are directly applicable to my professional life.
How has it helped you professionally?
The master’s has given me tools that I have been able to apply immediately in my role. Above all, in terms of preparing and structuring documentation to better present and sell an idea or project to the client.
What do you take away from the faculty and your classmates?
New methodologies, approaches and alternative perspectives to my own. The faculty constantly provides feedback and challenges you to improve, to go one step further, and if necessary, to break certain “rules” in order to achieve a result aligned with the concept being developed.
Thank you so much for sharing your ESDESIGN journey with us, Jordi :)
