David Sedgwick
Designer · Founder
In their own words
I put an amount into a private pension monthly... It's a win-win situation.
I need to focus more on getting the balance right between work and play.
Success isn't about size or money but feeling proud of what you've built.
Success isn't about flashy marketing or expansion but about the joy of creating impactful, honest work with people he admires and respects.
Articles & interviews
- I love freelancing, but what about my pension?
Creative Boom’s advice column by Tom May explores how freelancers can start saving for retirement despite irregular income. The article features insights from several UK creatives who share their personal pension strategies and emphasize the importance of starting small and automating contributions. It highlights pension options like PensionBee, Penfold, and Lifetime ISAs, stressing tax benefits and long-term financial security.
- Creative Leaders Outline Plans for 2025
Creative Boom’s feature by Tom May surveys global design leaders about their strategies for 2025. The piece highlights how studios plan to adapt to economic challenges, integrate AI, focus on purpose-driven work, and improve internal culture. The overall tone is cautiously optimistic, emphasizing flexibility, learning, and sustainable creative practices.
- David Sedgwick on Zen Motorcycling and Reputation Building
Episode 134 of The Spark podcast, hosted by Katy Cowan, features a reflective conversation with David Sedgwick of Studio DBD about resilience, kindness, and redefining success in the creative industry. The episode also highlights sustainable design innovations, new Royal Mail Christmas stamps by Judy Joel, and the Glasgow School of Art’s recent award. Additional segments include insights from James Hughes on AI and illustration, and a creative tip on building a strong reputation.
- David Sedgwick on Prioritizing People and Purpose in Design
Creative Boom’s podcast episode features David Sedgwick, founder of Studio DBD, discussing his philosophy of prioritising people, purpose, and authenticity in design. The conversation explores his approach to running a small, values-driven studio in Manchester, focusing on meaningful work over rapid growth. Sedgwick reflects on personal challenges, the pressures of the creative industry, and the importance of staying grounded and human in a fast-paced world.
- The Spark Podcast: Holly Howard on Expressive Typography and Kindness
Episode 132 of The Spark podcast, hosted by Katy Cowan, reflects on a conversation with creative consultant Holly Howard about alternative marketing approaches for creatives beyond social media. The episode also covers UK creative industry news, celebrates York’s UNESCO City of Media Arts anniversary, and highlights the book 'Expressive Type Today' by Counter-Print. It closes with a reminder about kindness in the creative community ahead of World Kindness Day.