We're opening a specialty leather goods retail store in Chicago and are looking for an interior designer to help us create an immersive, historically-informed space with a strong point of view. The Project Full interior design concept for an approximately 1,500 sq ft retail space in Chicago Product display solutions for leather apparel, accessories, and specialty adult merchandise Fitting room design, checkout area, and storefront window display Integration of custom illustrated characters being developed separately for the space — the designer will work collaboratively to incorporate these into the environment in a way that feels intentional, high-end, and cohesive rather than decorative or novelty-driven Timeline We are targeting a pop-up launch in May 2026, followed by a fully completed store with permanent fixtures by fall 2026. We'd love a designer who can work across both phases. The Aesthetic The store's visual identity draws from 1970s underground American subculture — specifically the leather community publications, bars, and social spaces of that era. Key references include Drummer magazine, the historic Folsom Street corridor in San Francisco, and Chicago's own leather bar heritage. We are not prescribing a specific look — we want the right designer to bring their own vision and interpretation to this material. We'll share a full mood board and additional reference materials with shortlisted candidates, and we're looking for someone who is either already familiar with this world or genuinely enthusiastic about diving in. Required Skills Proficiency in interior design planning and visualization software (e.g. SketchUp, AutoCAD, Revit, Chief Architect, or similar) — the ability to produce quick-iteration renders for client review is essential Strong portfolio demonstrating atmospheric, character-driven retail or hospitality interiors Ability to choose and suggest retail furnishings suited to a specialty boutique environment Experience integrating custom artwork or branded elements into interior environments Comfort working with adult-oriented retail environments Preferred Based in Chicago or able to visit the space in person at least once during the project Familiarity with leather subculture history, aesthetics, or related visual references — please mention this in your application, as it carries real weight Experience designing for specialty or niche retail Engagement & Rate This project is open to remote collaboration. Please propose your preferred engagement structure — hourly or project-based — along with your rate when applying. To Apply Send your portfolio, your proposed rate and engagement structure, and a brief note on your relevant experience or interest in this type of project. Apply tot his job