Interior Architecture Lead

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Architectural Interior Designer to lead the interior architecture and interior design of high-end residential projects from early concept through construction and closeout. This is a senior leadership role that blends interior architectural design, technical rigor, budgeting, and team leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead interior architectural design including space planning, interior partitions, reflected ceiling plans, custom millwork and cabinetry, stair details, and finish assemblies.
• Collaborate closely with architects and engineers to ensure interior design intent is fully integrated with building systems and construction documentation.
• Review and conduct architectural drawings, interior elevations, sections, and details for design integrity, constructability, and code compliance.
• Develop material palettes and finish specifications that balance design intent, durability, budget, and constructability.
• Project Management, Budgeting and Cost Control
• Lead projects from inception through installation, coordinating with clients, consultants, vendors, subcontractors, and internal team members.
• Manage project budgets, including FF&E procurement, orders, deliveries, and installation logistics.
• Partner with project management to develop, track, and manage interior design budgets from schematic design through project completion.
• Review and evaluate vendor quotes, subcontractor pricing, consultant proposals, and scope alignment.
• Participate in value engineering efforts while protecting design quality and intent.
• Oversee procurement strategy for interior scopes, including longlead items, approvals, and coordination of orders.
• Monitor project costs throughout the lifecycle and proactively identify budget risks, scope changes, and cost impacts.
• Team Leadership and Department Growth
• Build, manage, and mentor a team of junior interior designers and interior architects.
• Establish interior design workflows, documentation standards, and best practices.
• Cookordinate and manage external consultants including lighting designers, kitchen designers, and specialty fabricators.
• Support hiring, onboarding, performance development, and professional growth of interior design staff.
• Act as a senior leader in shaping the future direction and scalability of the interior design department.
• Construction Phase and Field Leadership
• Conduct regular site visits during construction to review interior conditions and resolve design issues.
• Review shop drawings, samples, and mockups for interior architectural elements.
• Serve as a design authority in the field, making informed decisions in coordination with architecture and construction teams.
• Lead interior punch list walks and support final closeout.
• Client and Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
• Serve as a senior, client-facing leader guiding clients through design, cost, and construction decisions.
• Clearly communicate design intent, budget implications, and schedule impacts.
• Collaborate as a peer partner with architecture, construction, and project management teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or related field (required).
• 8-12+ years of experience with a strong focus on interior architecture and high-end residential construction.
• Demonstrated experience leading teams and mentoring junior staff.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, pricing reviews, procurement, and cost control.
• Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and/or Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, with strong construction documentation skills.
• Deep knowledge of residential construction methods, detailing, materials, and sequencing.
• NCIDQ certification or relevant professional licensure preferred.
• Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license and personal transportation for local travel to project sites preferred.

Pay

This position offers a competitive base salary commensurate with experience, plus a performance-based incentive tied to project execution, budget performance, and departmental success.