Lead Interior Designer

Lead Interior Designer

Ideation Design Group (IDG) is a growing modern, boutique interior architecture design studio rooted in Phoenix and known for executing bold, highly crafted spaces across hospitality, retail, and aviation. Since 2004, we’ve partnered with local restaurateurs across the valley and some of the world's biggest brands

to turn vision into functional works of art that delight and perform. With full-service capabilities, from architecture to foodservice design to FF&E procurement, we offer an interactive, hands-on experience that values creativity, technical rigor, and personal connection. As a team, we embrace fresh ideas, reject the ordinary, and are committed to designing spaces that spark joy, elevate brands, and make unforgettable guest experiences.

This fast-moving role is perfect for a designer who thrives on big ideas, detailed execution, and managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. The spaces you help create are seen by millions every year, as they are brought to life in airports and public spaces across the country, offering a unique opportunity to impact experiences on a national scale. You’ll shape design direction, mentor junior talent, and work across architecture, food service, and interiors to deliver high-impact, memorable spaces, all while growing your creative voice and leadership within the studio.

The Impact You Will Make

Lead Interior Design Projects

• Reports to the Design Director throughout the project, providing updates on hours, timelines, and project health; flagging any potential issues and providing resolutions. 
• Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, guiding them from early concept through construction completion while managing timelines, milestones, and deliverables with independence and accountability.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, leading meetings, capturing feedback, managing expectations, and presenting design work with clarity and confidence.
• Mentor, direct, and review the work of project teams, providing guidance to designers and supporting the development of interns.

Concept, Vision & Design Development

• Create and evolve conceptual design narratives, space plans, and mood boards that reflect both brand standards and project goals, ensuring functional, compliant, and compelling design solutions.
• Develop strong material and finish palettes, sourcing and vetting options for availability, durability, pricing, and design intent.
• Lead the creation and coordination of presentation materials, renderings, and visual storytelling that communicate a cohesive point of view.

Technical Design Documentation

• Produce and oversee complete interior drawing sets, including plans, elevations, RCPs, sections, custom millwork details, finish plans, and FF&E specifications.
• Review and respond to redlines, shop drawings, and submittals to maintain accuracy, constructability, and alignment with standards and design intent.
• Coordinate closely with architectural, engineering, foodservice, and specialty consultants to integrate all technical requirements and discipline inputs.

FF&E, Materials, and Procurement

• Prepare and maintain detailed finish and furniture schedules, specification books, and pricing documents.
• Request quotes, prepare purchase orders, track orders, and support installations to ensure smooth project execution.
• Select artwork, accessories, and graphic elements that reinforce the overall design concept.

Construction Administration

• Support site visits, CA meetings, and verification of finish submittals, alternates, and value engineering options.
• Collaborate with contractors, fabricators, and installers to troubleshoot field conditions and uphold the design throughout installation.

Branding & Graphic Integration

• Ensure design solutions align with brand standards, including signage, wall graphics, environmental branding, and specialty features.
• Develop or coordinate graphic assets such as murals, feature walls, logos, and barricade graphics when required.

Project Coordination & Operations

• Maintain accurate time tracking, project organization, and documentation across all phases.
• Prepare project reports, maintain project folders, and ensure all deliverables are complete, reviewed, and client-ready.

Marketing & Studio Engagement

• Collaborate with the marketing team to support social content and portfolio updates.
• Attend industry events, vendor presentations, and internal learning opportunities while representing the firm professionally.

What You Bring to the Table

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or a related field
• 7 years of professional interior design experience, ideally with complex, multi-phase projects
• Strong portfolio demonstrating concept-to-completion design, technical excellence, and a distinct point of view
• Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and Photoshop; experience in InDesign, Illustrator, and Bluebeam is strongly preferred
• Confident working through all phases of design from concept, DD, and CDs to shop drawing review and CA, as well as coordinating with consultants
• Proven ability to manage multiple fast-paced projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and maintaining design quality
• Strong understanding of materials, finishes, FF&E, lighting, and detailing
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and client-facing skills
• Highly organized, self-directed, and comfortable taking ownership of deliverables and guiding junior staff
• Ability to collaborate effectively with architecture, food service, and construction partners
• NCIDQ certification or active pursuit is a plus

Life at IDG

At Ideation Design Group, we believe great design starts with great people, and we’ve built a team that shows up with heart, curiosity, and a true commitment to craft. We work fast, we think big, and we support each other every step of the way. We invest in our people through continuous learning, professional development, and opportunities to stretch creatively and technically. Our team enjoys a supportive environment where your voice matters, your growth is encouraged, and your contributions have real impact. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401k, leadership coaching, paid holidays, paid time off and annual bonus opportunities.

If you're looking for a place where you can grow fast, contribute meaningfully, and do work you're proud of, you’ll feel right at home with us. Ready to take the next step?

To apply, please send your resume and portfolio to careers@ideationdg.com. An AutoCAD proficiency test is included within the interview process.

Relocation and VISA sponsorship are not currently available for this role.