Co-Owner

Ryan Inks is the Co-Owner of The Elements. Driven by blending style and creativity with organization and functionality, his straightforward and simple approach to design has earned him a fast paced reputation for producing beautiful and comfortable spaces. Never one to take things too seriously, Ryan enjoys making the process fun and light hearted, translating the complicated details of design into a simplified outline of key points to review with his clients.

Ryan was raised on a small farm in northern central Iowa. From a young age he felt a draw to design, but in a different facet; landscaping. He worked many years for a local landscaper before taking on clients of his own in his college years. Later, he began working at a local home store igniting his passion for interior styling. The path through college landed Ryan with degree in accounting and finance, much to his own surprise. “I always felt I would have to do something bland and serious that paid the bills during the week, so I could do what I loved on the weekends.” After moving to Ankeny, Ryan worked in an accounting position in downtown Des Moines before taking a part time, weekend position at The Elements. It didn’t take long before Ryan was ready to take the plunge and answer his calling to design full-time. He quickly became a lead designer, buyer, and manager in the following years. Approaching year seven with The Elements, he was delighted to partner with fellow designer Michelle Orosco and become owners.

Ryan has designed projects all over the county, from Florida to Arizona, of all scales in size. He enjoys answering to the unique needs and styles of each of his clients. A multifaceted designer, Ryan specializes not only in interior design, but also serves as the stores resident floral designer and visual display designer. One of Ryan’s favorite parts of his career is the friendships he builds with his clients.

While it is a rarity that Ryan can’t be found at the studio, his many interests include cycling, tackling a DIY project at home, and traveling. Each year he tries to include travels in as much of his free time as his schedule allows. He enjoys absorbing influences from these global and cross country travels and tying them into projects. When he’s not in the air, he’s on land—peddling! Ryan enjoys trekking the extensive local bike trails and exploring the surrounding communities. A new homeowner, Ryan is always taking work home with him designing his own space and becoming an avid do-it-yourselfer. Ryan prides himself on the excitement he has for coming into the office every day. The age old saying certainly rings true for him; If you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life!