SENIOR INTERIOR DESIGNER (CONTRACT / DESIGN PARTNER)

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—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—through spatial refinement, material sourcing, vendor coordination, and hands-on execution.

Location: South Loop Loft — 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:

• A client-facing retail showroom

• A back-of-house warehouse and inventory operation

• Existing workshops for furniture restoration

This role will also support the company through its transition into the new space—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

• Partner with ownership to refine the floor plan and spatial layout in real time (SketchUp required)

• Translate the Founder’s design vision into clear, buildable decisions across all phases of the project. The Founder has a detailed design deck already prepared.

• Develop clear visual and technical documentation (drawings, models, references) to align design intent with execution across teams

• Lead material sourcing and procurement, from architectural finishes to final details

• Fully own procurement, including ordering, tracking, follow-up, and vendor coordination to ensure timely delivery

• Source and coordinate everything from specialty materials and custom elements to functional items (e.g., outlet covers, hardware, espresso machine, etc.)

• Identify, vet, and manage relationships with artisans, fabricators, and vendors

• 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

• Oversee window treatments and soft goods, including coordination with drapery workrooms

• Manage all sampling, approvals, and finish selections

• Work closely with the GC and internal teams during active construction and installation

• Review drawings, shop drawings, and site conditions to ensure design intent is maintained throughout construction

• Anticipate challenges and proactively solve problems to keep the project moving forward

• Support move-in logistics, installation, and showroom setup

• Ensure all design decisions align with both aesthetic vision and operational needs

• Act as a thought partner in design development, contributing ideas while maintaining alignment with ownership’s vision

• Respond to site conditions and adapt designs in real time during construction

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:

• Designing and sourcing signage and experiential details throughout the space

• Fully furnishing secondary spaces such as offices, kitchen, and back-of-house areas

• Supporting space planning for back-of-house operations, ensuring functionality and efficiency

• Helping coordinate the company’s transition into the new space, working alongside a logistics partner to ensure a seamless, considered, and fully resolved move

• Ensuring the final environment feels complete, intentional, and aligned with the South Loop Loft brand experience

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

• 8+ years of interior design experience, with a strong portfolio of built work

• Advanced proficiency in SketchUp (must be able to model and iterate live)

• Proven experience in project management and procurement

• Strong background in materiality, finishes, and construction detailing

• Experience working through active construction phases, coordinating with trades and adapting to site conditions

• Ability to manage multiple workstreams independently without support staff

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

• Must be comfortable making decisions quickly and working in real time alongside ownership

IDEAL CANDIDATE

• Agile, confident, and deeply knowledgeable

• Comfortable operating at both high-level design and granular execution

• Understands that this role extends far beyond drawings—it includes problem-solving, sourcing, coordination, and hands-on decision-making

• Has experience sourcing unique materials and working with artisans

• Strong point of view, with an appreciation for European design, vintage, material richness, and restrained, editorial environments

• Moves quickly, communicates clearly, and adapts in real time

• Comfortable stepping into a fast-moving environment where decisions have real financial implications

• Thrives in a collaborative, high-expectation environment

• 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

ENGAGEMENT DETAILS

• Contract / Gig-Based Role

• Start Immediately

• 40 hours per week through end of July 2026 | 30 hours a week from August through end of December 2026

• Must be Chicago-based and able to travel regularly to Humboldt Park for on-site work and collaboration

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

• Portfolio of completed work (built projects preferred)

• SketchUp models

• CAD drawings (if applicable)

• Resume

• A brief note outlining your relevant experience, availability (including start date), and interest in the role

• Please include 2-3 professional references