2023 Designer Dozen: Jowita K. Abbott

Jowita K. Abbott
Age: 35 | Senior Interior Designer, IA Interior Architects
Favorite Music Genre: Indie Rock
Favorite Celebrity: Keanu Reeves

WHY JOWITA?

In her role as Senior Interior Designer, Jowita oversees the design of many retail projects from implementing concepts to selecting materials and finishes to making sure a store’s design aligns with the client’s objectives. Her co-workers say Jo (“as she is affectionately known”) is a designer who stands out from her peers through her market research expertise, aesthetic sensibility, commercial awareness and passion for creating luxury environments. Sustainability is a keen interest of the Poland native, and she works to mentor younger staff on proper material specifications, her co-workers say.

In terms of giving back, Jowita has been involved in launching food drives, fundraising efforts for individuals with terminal illnesses and families affected by disasters – she says her passion is strong for assisting families with young children in impoverished environments. She’s also participated in numerous efforts with Teknion Festival of Trees, designing Christmas trees that are donated to families in need. As part of IA’s Reach program, she also engages in mentorship with local outreach communities on a monthly basis.

📷: Courtesy of IA Interior Architects, New York

What do you enjoy most about your job?

What I love most about my work is having the opportunity to curate spaces and make a meaningful impact. I view my job not only as a profession but also as a responsibility to enhance the lives of those who will occupy the spaces I design. Retail spaces are my passion, and I feel a deep sense of responsibility towards those who will inhabit the spaces I create.

What’s the biggest challenge you face professionally?

Hmm… I think for me as a designer, one of the biggest challenges I face is learning to let go of designs that I have grown attached to. It’s an acquired skill that I’m continually working on mastering, but it can be difficult to detach myself from designs that I’m fond of.

What experience or specific interest has shaped you as a designer?

Growing up with three brothers, I had my own room, but it was an extremely cramped space with only a murphy bed and a desk. Regardless, I always found myself sketching little plans and crude elevations of what my dream room, then the living room, kitchen, house, and even town, would look like. Looking back, I realize that my natural inclination towards planning and design was evident from a young age, and I’m grateful for it because it’s shaped who I am today.

My favorite thing to do when I leave the office is…

…coming home to spend precious moments with my little one. It’s the most fulfilling and gratifying experience in the world.

I find (design) inspiration in…

…everything! Truly! I believe that inspiration can be found in everything around us, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. Being tuned in to the world and its wonders, we can discover a wealth of inspiration in unexpected places.