IA Interior Architects is a global architecture firm focused exclusively on interiors. Founded in 1984, IA believes in human-centric design and provides strategic planning, interior architecture, and design services for corporations, businesses, and institutions. With 21 offices across the nation and more than 60 partner offices outside the United States, IA represents highly connected agents of change committed to creativity, innovation, growth, and their communities.

Q: Tell us about IA Interior Architects

As a global collective of purpose-driven creatives, IA pushes design forward. Together, our teams harness the power of creativity and innovation to propel human experience. As unique individuals with shared values, we challenge the status quo. Our designs continuously explore how the built environment can enable people to thrive. IA’s studios are interdisciplinary hubs where people and ideas converge to create forward-thinking designs that propel business growth and, above all, do good. Our approach puts people at the heart of the experience. Our integrated services are the foundation of our approach. Together with our clients, we blend diverse perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to shape people-centric experiences. Through this blend of creativity and technical expertise, we continue to push the boundaries of meaningful design.

Q: Can you highlight a recent program?

In celebration of IA's 7th annual Experiential Design Week, IA hosted a series of conversations with creative luminaries who are pushing boundaries in their respective fields. These dialogues explored how design can transform places, experiences, products, music, and daily life. Throughout the week, we discovered the powerful impact of design in various aspects of our world. These conversations celebrated the transformative potential of design, showcasing its ability to enhance the human experience in countless ways.

Q: What is something about your organization that most people don’t know or are unfamiliar with?

IA Interior Architects’ portfolio continues to expand with a diverse array of projects in hospitality, retail, and experiential design, in addition to the workplace. IA is also building environments for extended reality and proudly partners with our ancillary art company, FYOOG, for added ways to innovate our clients’ spaces.

Q: What is something in your neighborhood that you would recommend doing, seeing, eating, etc. if someone were to visit?

Visitors to the Financial District will find a mix of historic and modern attractions to enjoy. Trinity Church and the New York Stock Exchange stand out as historically significant architectural marvels located just a stone's throw away from our office. Further down the street is the Oculus and 9/11 Memorial, which are equally as breathtaking and monumental to the city. History fans and foodies need to check out Fraunces Tavern, built over 304 years ago! For a different experience, head to the Tin Building for a variety of renowned options by Jean-Georges in the heart of Seaport. To change up the scenery, hop on the Wall Street ferry to enjoy the charms of Brooklyn. And when winter’s here, enjoy picturesque ice skating at Brookfield Place.

Q: How does your organization’s mission intersect with Archtober’s mission?

Archtober and IA Interior Architects both focus on how architecture improves people's lives. Archtober celebrates architecture's impact on cities and well-being, while IA Interior Architects highlights its role in interior design and daily life. They both promote understanding of great design and encourage collaboration among professionals and enthusiasts to create better, more sustainable environments for everyone. Together, they champion architecture’s power to enhance life.

Q: What was the biggest change that your institution has witnessed in recent years?

The integration of wellness, sustainability, and ESG principles has now become a routine part of almost every interior design and architecture project. This has pushed firms to explore alternative methods for distinguishing themselves. Clients have also increasingly shown interest in reevaluating their overall brand identity during the repositioning of their spaces, making it a frequent request in the redesign process.

Q: How does your organization see the future of architecture and design in NYC?

IA envisions the future of architecture and design in NYC as a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. Traditional solutions that were once considered standard are no longer applicable. Firms are now challenged to navigate unique repositioning projects and craft innovative, context-specific solutions to meet the evolving needs of the city and its occupiers. This proactive and adaptive approach is essential for ensuring that our architectural and design endeavors remain relevant and impactful in the robust, ever-transforming urban fabric ofNYC.