Watch Design for Life

Design for Life is a British reality television show that revolves around the world of design. The show is presented by the well-known Welsh designer Philippe Starck, who takes on the role of mentor to a group of young designers from various backgrounds. The show starts with the selection of 12 finalists from thousands of applicants, who have come from all over the UK to participate in this unique experience. Over the course of the show, the designers work on a variety of design challenges that test their skills and creativity, and they are given feedback from Starck and other industry professionals.

The first episode introduces us to the contestants, who come from diverse design backgrounds, including product design, architecture, and fashion. In the initial challenges, the designers are tasked with creating a portable workspace and redesigning a hotel room. Each task is judged on its innovation, creativity, and functionality, with the contestants receiving feedback from Starck and other industry professionals. The judges evaluate not only the quality of the designs but also the designer's ability to sell their ideas.

Throughout the series, Starck pushes the contestants to think beyond their usual design boundaries and encourages them to take risks. The challenges become increasingly more difficult as the series progresses, with the designers being asked to design an entire interior of an apartment and create a pop-up store in a busy London street.

The show also explores the personality clashes and conflicts that arise between the contestants. As they become more invested in the competition, the tensions between the designers become more apparent. With only one winner selected at the end of the competition, the pressure is high, and the contestants become highly competitive.

The series finale sees the remaining designers presenting their final projects to a panel of industry professionals, with the winner announced in front of a live audience. The projects are judged on their originality, feasibility, and overall impact.

The show's unique format allows viewers an inside look into the world of design, with Starck acting as an insightful and often entertaining guide. The show explores the importance of a designer's vision and their ability to sell their ideas, as well as the skills necessary to succeed in the highly competitive design industry.

Design for Life provides an encouraging and realistic insight into what it takes to make it in the design world, and the challenges one must face and overcome to become a success. With its emphasis on creativity, innovation, and perseverance, Design for Life is an insightful and inspiring show that will appeal to anyone interested in design or the creative process.

Design for Life is a series that ran for 1 seasons (6 episodes) between September 13, 2009 and on BBC Select