Gigi Cooke
News
Graduate receives prestigious design shortlisting and is featured in Vogue and GQ
Friday, 16 February, 2024Bath Spa graduate Gigi Cooke is taking the world of furniture design by storm, with her creation ‘Archie’ - a versatile piece of furniture that can be used as a stool, coffee table or side table - receiving widespread praise and coverage.
Gigi, a Product and Furniture Design graduate from BSU, has not only been shortlisted for Young Furniture Designer of the Year but has also seen Archie feature in British Vogue and British GQ.
Speaking to House of Coco, a renowned lifestyle website, Gigi spoke of how her time at Bath Spa University helped shape her approach:
“Bath Spa University provided a platform for me to explore my design approach. Being hands-on with materials and constantly experimenting in the workshop shaped my commitment to blending function, style, and sustainability. The university’s emphasis on personal exploration also allowed me to develop a unique perspective that reflects in my creations.”
A Jersey native, Gigi is passionate about the environment and sustainability is at the heart of her creations. Archie, which can be pre-ordered on Gigi’s website, is a commitment to sustainable design practice.
Using sustainable timber to ensure a long life, 5% of the proceeds from sales of Archie will go to the Jersey Trees for Life charity, a cause close to Gigi’s heart.
Gigi’s success has been highlighted by her shortlisting for Young Furniture Designer of the Year, which also allowed her to exhibit Archie as part of a special one-day event hosted by the Furniture Makers’ Company in October 2023.
Speaking to the Furniture Makers’ Company last year, Gigi spoke of her career ambitions:
“In my career, I aspire to be bouncing back and forth from the workshop to my desk playing with ideas and bringing them to the market with a multi-disciplinary team, whilst owning my own business.”
Gigi’s work can be viewed on her website.