Senior Designer - Project Manager

Position Summary: Lead Role in Studio Growth

As Francis Interiors enters an exciting new phase of growth and team-building, this Senior Designer will play an integral leadership role in shaping the next chapter of the studio. This position is ideal for a driven, strategic designer who is excited to help build, mentor, and elevate a new design team while contributing directly to the creative and operational evolution of the firm.

This role offers significant growth potential within the studio as the firm continues to expand.

This Senior Designer role at Francis Interiors acts as the bridge between the creative vision and project execution, overseeing all phases of design from concept through completion. This role serves both as an interior designer and project manager, and the responsibilities may include (but are not limited to) interior furnishings as well as architectural designs for additions, renovations, and new homes. The position manages all project-related tasks, client meetings, and industry partner coordination. This role requires a strong balance of creative design expertise and project management skills. Reporting directly to the Principal Designer, the position manages project timelines, budgets, and deliverables while maintaining client satisfaction, studio aesthetics standards, and coordinating the efforts of the design team, including Associate or Junior Designers and Interns.

Key Duties + Responsibilities:

Design Leadership:

• Research and analyze client goals and requirements; develop drawings, schedules, budgets, and diagrams that outline specific needs.
• Procure and document site measurements and existing conditions.
• Formulate preliminary space plans, design concepts, and study sketches that integrate client needs and reflect studio standards.
• Select and specify furnishings, fixtures, equipment, millwork details, and material palettes, including layout drawings and detailed product descriptions.
• Prepare specifications and schedules with accurate product information for furnishings, plumbing, appliances, lighting, and finishes.
• Prepare and present detailed client presentations, ensuring clarity, inspiration, and alignment with the project vision.
• Oversee the implementation of the design vision from concept through installation, ensuring cohesion, accuracy, and high-quality outcomes.

Project Management:

• Manage project budgets, fee analysis, proposals, and billing reviews to align with client expectations and project parameters.
• Represent the studio confidently with clients, project teams, and vendors; relay relevant information to the Principal and internal team.
• Ensure the Principal is briefed on all design materials prior to client meetings; lead project-update meetings with clients as assigned.
• Maintain recurring design review sessions with the Principal and project team to ensure momentum and alignment.
• Delegate tasks to future design team members and review all work prior to issuing specifications or client-facing design deliverables.

Interior Design & Architecture:

The Senior Designer oversees and executes design tasks related to interior design & architecture, ensuring the integration of creative vision with construction and fabrication realities. Responsibilities include:

~Design Development

• Develop interior architectural details, including millwork details, cabinetry, lighting layouts, built-ins, and integrated design features.
• Produce detailed CAD drawings—plans, elevations, sections, and construction details—to communicate design intent clearly.
• Research and specify materials, finishes, fixtures, and products that meet project requirements and aesthetics.

~Construction Management & Administration

• Coordinate and collaborate with outside consultants and contractors involved in project execution.
• Conduct site visits to monitor construction progress, confirm adherence to design specifications, and address any design-related issues.
• Prepare or review punch lists to ensure completion prior to installation and project closeout.
• Review RFIs, submittals, shop drawings, and contractor inquiries to maintain consistency with design intent.
• Maintain accurate documentation, including specifications, meeting notes, contracts, and change orders.
• Prepares and sends out Friday reports for all projects they lead.

~Team Coordination:

• Collaborate closely with the Principal Designer, Associate Designers, and external consultants.
• Delegate responsibilities to the design team and oversee their output to ensure alignment with studio standards.
• Participate in recurring team design reviews to maintain project continuity and momentum.
• Build strong relationships with clients, vendors, and project partners, demonstrating professionalism and clarity in communication.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor or Master’s degree in Interior Design or Architecture.
• 7 - 10+ years of interior design experience in high-end residential projects, including substantial budgets.
• NYC luxury buildings and townhomes experience preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp/Revit, and Mac-based software.
• Studio Designer experience is preferred.
• Strong presentation skills, including space planning, conceptual design, and technical drawing.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly organized with strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines simultaneously.

Personal Attributes:

• A willingness to lean into and embody the Francis Interiors aesthetic, vocabulary, mindset, and studio culture.
• Capable of presenting to clients in a professional, customer service–focused manner.
• Maintains a polished, client-ready appearance at all times, with attire and personal presentation aligned with the Francis Interiors brand and the level of luxury service we provide.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a client-focused mindset.
• Collaborative team player with leadership abilities and a proactive approach.
• Ability to interact with peers, management, and other staff in a consistently professional manner.
• Passionate about high-end residential design and committed to delivering exceptional results.
• Willingness to observe company policies, procedures, and the instructions of the Principal and management.
• Demonstrates the ability to take direction, work independently, and report issues with a solution.
• Sets the tone through responsible leadership, teamwork, and a consistent can-do, problem-solving attitude.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Application Question(s):

• How long will it take to travel to work in the morning?
• If a link to your portfolio is not included on your resume, provide a link to examples of recent work including technical drawings, floor plans, elevation, construction documents and client presentation material.

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Preferred)

Work Location: In person