Senior Design Lead | High-End Residential & Hospitality

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Design Lead to join a multidisciplinary design studio specializing in complex interior architecture projects across residential and hospitality sectors. This role is ideal for a seasoned designer who excels in leading teams, managing full project lifecycles, and driving thoughtful, narrative-driven design solutions.

About

This internationally recognized design studio is known for its work across high-end hospitality, residential, retail, and workplace environments. They have collaborated with many of the world’s leading luxury hospitality brands, including Four Seasons, W Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, Rosewood, Auberge, Loews, and 1 Hotels, contributing to hotel and resort properties across the U.S. and abroad.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead multiple design projects from concept through construction, working independently while collaborating closely with studio leadership.
• Establish and guide the overall interior design direction, including architectural finishes, spatial planning, and environmental detailing aligned with project goals, program, and budget.
• Develop strong design narratives, presenting schematic concepts and visual materials that communicate intent with clarity and impact.
• Present design work to clients with confidence; partner with studio leadership to deliver compelling and well-structured presentations.
• Produce and oversee comprehensive construction documentation, including plans, elevations, sections, millwork, and detailed specifications.
• Ensure all design documentation adheres to quality standards, building codes, and brand or client requirements.
• Coordinate fully across disciplines to maintain drawing accuracy and alignment with project intent.
• Review shop drawings and submittals for completeness, accuracy, and consistency with design direction.
• Provide mentorship and leadership to the design team; support staffing, resource planning, and scheduling.
• Lead internal and external coordination meetings with consultants, contractors, and project teams.
• Maintain consistent communication through detailed meeting notes, updates, and internal memos.
• Track project milestones, staffing needs, and progress in collaboration with studio leadership.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, and industry partners.
• Interpret and help apply contract terms, supporting discussions around fees, scope changes, and deliverables.
• Prepare change orders in coordination with studio leadership as project needs evolve.

Skills & Experience

• Professional degree in Interior Design or Architecture required.
• 8 years of experience leading interior design projects across all phases, including construction administration.
• Proven background in high-end private residential and hospitality design.
• Strong conceptual design skills with the ability to develop and communicate narrative-driven concepts.
• Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, DesignSpec, Revit, and BIM 360.
• Working knowledge of 3D visualization tools such as SketchUp, Rhino, 3ds Max, Enscape, D5, Lumion, or VRay.
• Excellent understanding of drawing standards, construction detailing, and finish specifications.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills and confidence in public speaking.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and collaborative.
• Certifications such as LEED, WELL, PMP, AIA, or NCIDQ are a plus.