Boutique Architect Intern
Chanel is hiring a Boutique Architect Intern in Duba, Saudi Arabia — support retail architecture, BIM and site coordination for luxury boutique projects.
Overview
Chanel is a privately held Maison renowned for its haute couture, leather goods, accessories and beauty lines. As an employer, the brand prizes artisanal craftsmanship, creative rigor and discretion; design and retail teams collaborate closely with ateliers, product specialists and external consultants to realise high‑end store environments worldwide.
Role & Responsibilities
- Support the boutique architecture team in the preparation of technical drawings, construction documentation and as‑built surveys.
- Produce 2D CAD drawings and develop 3D models and visualisations for design review and client presentations.
- Assist with BIM coordination, clash detection and the maintenance of an organised model and document library.
- Prepare FF&E schedules, material specifications and detailed joinery drawings in accordance with brand standards.
- Participate in site visits, take site measurements, document progress and liaise with contractors during fit‑out.
- Contribute to design research, precedent studies and material sourcing for boutique concepts.
- Coordinate with internal stakeholders (visual merchandising, retail operations, procurement) and external consultants to ensure design intent is respected.
- Support quality control by reviewing drawings for constructability, tolerances and compliance with local codes.
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an accredited architecture, interior architecture or related programme.
- Strong portfolio demonstrating architectural drawing, detailing and retail or interior projects.
- Proficiency in technical drawing and visualisation software (see skills); excellent hand‑sketching and presentation ability.
- Solid understanding of construction detailing, joinery, materials and FF&E specification.
- Organised, methodical approach to document management and version control; strong attention to tolerance and finish.
- Ability to travel to project sites and to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
Skills
Experience
Internship or project experience within architecture, interior design or retail fit‑out environments is preferred; familiarity with retail/brand projects or prior exposure to high‑end joinery and finish standards is an advantage. Typically 0–2 years of practical experience.
Education
Enrolled in or recently completed a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Interior Architecture, or equivalent.
Culture
Chanel cultivates a culture of exacting craftsmanship and creative excellence, where design teams work in close collaboration with ateliers and product specialists. The workplace values discretion, attention to detail and respect for heritage while encouraging creative problem‑solving across international projects.