In the bustling metropolis of New York City, where the skyline is ever-evolving and each street corner tells a different story, Yuree Choi has carved out a name for herself as an innovative interior designer. With a career that spans across various high-profile projects, Choi has become synonymous with creativity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in the realm of interior design.
At the Research & Design Department (as known as Colkitt Architecture), Choi emerged as a leading figure, steering projects for renowned brands like PUMA through their Outlet and Flagship store designs. Her role was pivotal—not just in conceptualizing spaces that resonate with brand identity but also in fostering meaningful collaborations. By bridging gaps between universities, business centers, and her team, she ensured that each project was a seamless blend of aesthetic appeal and functional design.
Choi’s involvement with the Korean Architects Association New York (KAANY) further underscores her dedication to community and professional growth. Through KAANY, she worked tirelessly to knit a tight-knit network of Korean architects in New York City, emphasizing camaraderie and mutual support among her peers. Her contributions were not only administrative but deeply creative as well; at the “KICK OFF” Design Exhibition, Choi showcased her dual talent as both an artist and an interior designer—highlighting her versatile approach to design.
The year 2023 marked another milestone for Choi as she participated in the Seoul Design Reporter 2023 project by the Seoul Design Foundation. Representing New York City’s vibrant interior design scene on this international platform was not just an honor but a testament to her growing influence as a thought leader in design. It is through platforms like these that Choi’s work reaches a global audience—showcasing the depth of talent present within New York’s dynamic architectural landscape.
Beyond her professional achievements lies Choi’s vision for her career trajectory in New York—a city she considers “the land of opportunities and connections.” Driven by a passion for spatial branding—a dream she has nurtured over the years—Choi sees New York as not just a place of residence but as a canvas ripe with potential. “I used to dream of spatial branding,” Choi reflects. “Living in New York enables me to be closer to my dream.” This statement encapsulates her ambition and love for creating spaces that tell stories, connect people, and inspire action.
Choi is not one to rest on her laurels; aside from her commitments at Colkitt Architecture and KAANY, she actively seeks out diverse projects across New York City. Her goal is clear: to participate in shaping interiors that reflect the city’s eclectic character while pushing boundaries on what is conventionally expected from interior spaces. From commercial outlets to cultural exhibitions, there is no project too daunting or insignificant for her creative prowess.
Her Instagram account @archiveson_blue offers glimpses into another facet of Choi’s artistic journey—architectural photography. Here, followers can catch behind-the-scenes views of ongoing projects, personal inspirations drawn from the city’s architecture, and completed works that bear the hallmark of her innovative design philosophy.
Yuree Choi stands at the intersection where tradition meets innovation—a space where Korean heritage is infused with cutting-edge design principles unique to New York City’s architectural ethos. Her story is not just about individual success but about inspiring future generations of designers who look up to her achievements as evidence that dreams do materialize with hard work and persistence.
Yuree Choi’s journey from dreaming about spatial branding to becoming one of New York City’s most sought-after interior designers serves as both inspiration and a testament to what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity. As she continues to explore new horizons within interior design—and possibly beyond—her narrative remains intertwined with the fabric of New York City itself; ever-changing yet unmistakably impactful.
Published by: Martin De Juan
