Qureos Mentor

South Loop Loft

<div>South Loop Loft is seeking a Senior Interior Designer to partner directly with the Founder in executing a new flagship showroom and our operational hub.

This is a high-responsibility, gig-based role for someone who can operate as both a design partner and execution lead&mdash;translating a strong creative vision into a fully realized space.

Ownership will lead the overall vision and direction. You will be the person who brings it to life&mdash;through spatial refinement, material sourcing, vendor coordination, and hands-on execution.

Location: South Loop Loft &mdash; Chicago 
Engagement: Immediate Start through December 2026

ROLE OVERVIEW

You will work side-by-side with the Founder (design visionary) to refine and execute an already-developed design concept. The Founder has compiled a thorough design deck reflecting the major components, storytelling, and materials of interest.

The space includes:
<ul>
<li>A client-facing retail showroom
</li>
<li>A back-of-house warehouse and inventory operation
</li>
<li>Existing workshops for furniture restoration
</li>
</ul>This role will also support the company through its transition into the new space&mdash;helping to coordinate the move, install the showroom, and prepare for the Grand Opening.

This is not a role focused solely on drawings. It requires someone who can operate fluidly between design, logistics, sourcing, and execution.

This role requires someone who is comfortable operating without a full support team. You will be responsible for both high-level design thinking and detailed execution, including procurement, coordination, and problem-solving across all phases of the project.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
<ul>
<li>Partner with ownership to refine the floor plan and spatial layout in real time (SketchUp required)
</li>
<li>Translate the Founder&rsquo;s design vision into clear, buildable decisions across all phases of the project. The Founder has a detailed design deck already prepared.
</li>
<li>Develop clear visual and technical documentation (drawings, models, references) to align design intent with execution across teams
</li>
<li>Lead material sourcing and procurement, from architectural finishes to final details
</li>
<li>Fully own procurement, including ordering, tracking, follow-up, and vendor coordination to ensure timely delivery
</li>
<li>Source and coordinate everything from specialty materials and custom elements to functional items (e.g., outlet covers, hardware, espresso machine, etc.)
</li>
<li>Identify, vet, and manage relationships with artisans, fabricators, and vendors
</li>
<li>Partner with artisans to develop specialty wall finishes and unique installations that reflect the South Loop Loft brand and the family of artists we work with
</li>
<li>Oversee window treatments and soft goods, including coordination with drapery workrooms
</li>
<li>Manage all sampling, approvals, and finish selections
</li>
<li>Work closely with the GC and internal teams during active construction and installation
</li>
<li>Review drawings, shop drawings, and site conditions to ensure design intent is maintained throughout construction
</li>
<li>Anticipate challenges and proactively solve problems to keep the project moving forward
</li>
<li>Support move-in logistics, installation, and showroom setup
</li>
<li>Ensure all design decisions align with both aesthetic vision and operational needs
</li>
<li>Act as a thought partner in design development, contributing ideas while maintaining alignment with ownership&rsquo;s vision
</li>
<li>Respond to site conditions and adapt designs in real time during construction
</li>
</ul>ADDITIONAL SCOPE (POST-INTENSE DESIGN PHASE + ONGOING)

As the project moves beyond the most intensive design and construction phase (July/August 2026), this role will evolve to support the full realization and activation of the space.

Responsibilities will include:
<ul>
<li>Designing and sourcing signage and experiential details throughout the space
</li>
<li>Fully furnishing secondary spaces such as offices, kitchen, and back-of-house areas
</li>
<li>Supporting space planning for back-of-house operations, ensuring functionality and efficiency
</li>
<li>Helping coordinate the company&rsquo;s transition into the new space, working alongside a logistics partner to ensure a seamless, considered, and fully resolved move
</li>
<li>Ensuring the final environment feels complete, intentional, and aligned with the South Loop Loft brand experience
</li>
</ul>You will have support from our Operations Manager on certain aspects of this phase and will continue to work most closely with the Founder and our trusted GC.

QUALIFICATIONS
<ul>
<li>8+ years of interior design experience, with a strong portfolio of built work
</li>
<li>Advanced proficiency in SketchUp (must be able to model and iterate live)
</li>
<li>Proven experience in project management and procurement
</li>
<li>Strong background in materiality, finishes, and construction detailing
</li>
<li>Experience working through active construction phases, coordinating with trades and adapting to site conditions
</li>
<li>Ability to manage multiple workstreams independently without support staff
</li>
<li>Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
</li>
<li>Must be comfortable making decisions quickly and working in real time alongside ownership
</li>
</ul>IDEAL CANDIDATE
<ul>
<li>Agile, confident, and deeply knowledgeable
</li>
<li>Comfortable operating at both high-level design and granular execution
</li>
<li>Understands that this role extends far beyond drawings&mdash;it includes problem-solving, sourcing, coordination, and hands-on decision-making
</li>
<li>Has experience sourcing unique materials and working with artisans
</li>
<li>Strong point of view, with an appreciation for European design, vintage, material richness, and restrained, editorial environments
</li>
<li>Moves quickly, communicates clearly, and adapts in real time
</li>
<li>Comfortable stepping into a fast-moving environment where decisions have real financial implications
</li>
<li>Thrives in a collaborative, high-expectation environment
</li>
<li>Has previously operated at a senior level and is comfortable owning both the operational sides of a project without the support of a design assistant or procurement manager
</li>
</ul>ENGAGEMENT DETAILS
<ul>
<li>Contract / Gig-Based Role
</li>
<li>Start Immediately
</li>
<li>40 hours per week through end of July 2026 | 30 hours a week from August through end of December 2026
</li>
<li>Must be Chicago-based and able to travel regularly to Humboldt Park for on-site work and collaboration
</li>
</ul>Compensation will be structured as a 1099 engagement, with a pay rate aligned to a salaried-level senior designer role.

This role is ideal for someone looking for a consistent, high-level contract engagement through the end of the year, with the opportunity to be deeply involved in a design-forward space.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit the following materials to careers@thesouthlooploft.com
<ul>
<li>Portfolio of completed work (built projects preferred)
</li>
<li>SketchUp models
</li>
<li>CAD drawings (if applicable)
</li>
<li>Resume
</li>
<li>A brief note outlining your relevant experience, availability (including start date), and interest in the role
</li>
<li>Please include 2-3 professional references</li></ul></div>

SENIOR INTERIOR DESIGNER (CONTRACT / DESIGN PARTNER)

Join South Loop Loft and explore 1   exciting career opportunities. They're hiring for various roles with options for remote or on-site work. Apply today and become part of their innovative team.

South Loop Loft

About Company

SENIOR INTERIOR DESIGNER (CONTRACT / DESIGN PARTNER)