Working as an Interior Designer for IKEA in the retail space involves excellence in execution when it comes to installation. It is a fast-paced environment and we flip spaces based on the needs of the immediate local business and the long term priorities of a global brand. I plan and implement projects internally as well as adapt centrally-planned designs that roll out nationwide to maintain one unique IKEA brand experience. Our design team works individually managing our own project schedules within our assigned departments, and come together to work as a team for major remodels in the store.
In order to project manage implementations efficiently, I have developed a deep understanding of the timing and logistics of the work involved. I coordinate with teams of builders, carpenters, electricians, painters, and, for larger projects, external contractors. The store has a gridded ceiling system for us to utilize when installing overhead lighting and rigging other solutions. Ikea has a modular racking system which we configure to merchandise and create displays as well as define the traffic flow of the store. I have a broad knowledge-base of construction, rigging, and wall-hanging/mounting techniques from installing the majority of my own designs. I allow the elements and principles of design to guide my installations using symmetry and asymmetry to maintain balance and proportion, line, shape, and color to evoke emotion, and lighting to provide focus and ambiance, amongst other design aesthetic techniques.
Through implementing my own work, I have tremendously increased my proficiency as a designer. With a higher aptitude for the construction process, I have strengthened my ability to push the limit of materials through custom work, effectively communicate necessary information verbally and through detail drawings, and can comfortably troubleshoot issues when they arise. Through every stage of my design career, I will always stay in touch with this skill.
