Illuminating the Future: Heather Ogilvy’s Internship Experience at R&S Robertson
For over 80 years, R&S Robertson has been a leader in contract lighting solutions, delivering bespoke and innovative designs to the hotel and leisure sectors. With a reputation for craftsmanship, quality, and strong client relationships, the company has continuously evolved to meet the ever-changing demands of the hospitality industry. But innovation doesn’t just come from experience—it also comes from nurturing new talent.
Recognising the importance of welcoming the next generation into the field, R&S Robertson provides opportunities for emerging designers to gain hands-on experience in the lighting industry. As Michael Lawrence, Marketing & Product Manager, explains:
“Welcoming the next generation into the industry is essential for our business because fresh talent brings new ideas, energy, and perspectives that keep us evolving. The lighting and design world is constantly changing, and by mentoring young professionals, we ensure innovation stays at the heart of what we do whilst also equipping the next generation with hands-on experience and skills they can take forward into their careers.”
One such young professional is Heather Ogilvy, an Interior Design graduate from Heriot-Watt University. With expertise in lighting design, space planning, and 3D visualization, Heather joined R&S Robertson as an intern to deepen her understanding of how lighting shapes interior spaces.
In her own words, Heather shares what it was like to step into the world of contract lighting, gaining first-hand experience in a fast-evolving industry and discovering the impact of lighting on hospitality design. From working on client projects to exploring material innovation, her journey offers insight into what it means to be the next generation entering the business.
‘Internships are an excellent way to bridge the gap between academic studies and professional work, and my time at R&S Robertson Lighting was no exception. Coming from an interior design background, lighting was a new area for me, but this experience significantly deepened my understanding of its role in design.
Before starting, I felt both excited and nervous. I hadn’t met the team or visited the unit before, so everything seemed a little daunting. However, from the moment I arrived, I was warmly welcomed. Michael, the Marketing and Project manager, was my main guide, and his friendly and approachable nature made settling in much easier. He gave me a tour of the space, introduced me to the team, and ensured I felt comfortable before starting any tasks. James, the Managing Director, was equally welcoming and keen to make my experience as valuable as possible, which I really appreciated.
A structured plan had been put in place for my time there, helping me make the most of the experience. One of the first things I noticed was a table full of impressive lighting samples, which I later had the opportunity to take home and incorporate into my own design projects. I began by learning about the company and its projects before delving into the design process.
One of my first tasks was assisting Michael in creating a client portfolio, selecting R&S products best suited to specific spaces. Another highlight was visiting the Material Source Hub in Glasgow, where I explored innovative materials and sustainable design solutions. While in Glasgow, I also visited completed R&S projects, which provided valuable insight into how lighting enhances a space.
One of the most unexpected yet rewarding aspects of my internship was attending an Adobe networking evening for the launch of Adobe Express. This event was not only an opportunity to learn about new software but also a chance to connect with designers from various backgrounds. Engaging with creative professionals outside of university was an inspiring experience. Another valuable experience was travelling around Edinburgh with Michael to visit hotels that R&S had worked on. Seeing their lighting designs in real-world settings reinforced the importance of thoughtful lighting choices and how they elevate interior spaces.
As my internship drew to a close, I was given the opportunity to design my own R&S lighting piece using their material samples. I then created a concept presentation to share with the team. While initially nerve-wracking, the experience proved incredibly rewarding. It was a fantastic opportunity to apply my creativity and immerse myself in a real-world design process.
Reflecting on my time at R&S Robertson Lighting, I can confidently say it was an invaluable experience. I gained a deeper appreciation for lighting design, developed new skills, and connected with industry professionals. The welcoming team, engaging projects, and hands-on learning made it an unforgettable opportunity. This experience reinforced my passion for design and equipped me with skills and knowledge that will be invaluable in my future career.’
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