LEAD DESIGNER/PROJECT DIRECTOR (Chicago)

ABOUT THE ROLEWere looking for a natural connectorsomeone who builds trust with clients, leads teams with confidence, knows how to keep vendor relationships tight, and obsesses over the details. The role is responsible for overseeing multiple interior design projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This role involves managing teams, collaborating with various stakeholders, and contributing to the strategic direction of the design firm. You will be involved in all aspects of the design process, from conception to completion.While design is a critical element of this role, there is a high level of project management associated with everything we do. That said, we require a strategic thinker with a strong sense of urgency, organization, problem-solving ability, and follow-through.Must have a minimum of 8 years of experience in a high-end residential interior design firm, including proven expertise in managing projects from start to finish. A bachelor's degree is essential, but a formal education in interior design is not required as long as you are well-versed in all necessary software and can manage the entirety of the design process. You will be challenged in this environment and encouraged to provide solutions and feedback.ABOUT YOUYou live design. Youre constantly on the hunt for inspiration. Your Instagram saves and sources are a treasured catalog of whats next.You understand the importance of relationships and youve mastered the art of working collaborativelywith your team, trades, sales reps and showroomsto make your job easier.Youve got an eye for detail and the discipline to execute a creative vision flawlessly. You can translate the principals design direction into reality.You have a proven history of being detailed and organized. Youre able to prioritize and balance multiple projects and tasks at a time with minimal supervision.You are comfortable leading a team of others to keep everything running smoothly and on time.Youre direct, confident and concise. You know how to write an effective email, how to get the point across, how to get the answers you need, and when to pick up the phone.You complete tasks efficiently and are always looking for ways to improve processes.You can think on your feet and problem solve when things dont go according to plan, but youre not too proud to ask for help when you need it.You can hold your own on a construction site, ensuring that our designs are executed according to plan and no detail goes overlooked.Youre looking for a firm you can grow with and a place where your contribution to the team culture matters.RESPONSIBILITIESDESIGN + OVERSIGHT Collaborate with the Principal on Design Direction for each project, then bring the vision to life, ensuring the designs meet the firms aesthetic and standards.PROJECT LEADERSHIP Take the lead on multiple projects from start to finish, guiding everything from early concepts through to construction. Youll oversee design development, documentation, preparing client presentations, and construction administration.TEAM MANAGEMENT Supervise and mentor the design team. This includes assigning tasks, keeping an eye on timelines, and helping everyone stay on track. Youll also coordinate with architects, contractors, and tradespeople to bring the vision to life.CLIENT MANAGEMENT Build strong client relationships by keeping them in the loop, managing expectations, and making sure their concerns are heard and addressed.BUDGET + SCHEDULE MANAGEMENT Plan and manage project budgets and timelines to make sure everything runs smoothly and stays on budget.STRATEGIC INPUT Be part of shaping the firms bigger-picture goals, which may include marketing, social media, and outreach efforts.REQUISITESMust currently reside in Chicago and have a valid drivers license; access to reliable transportation is fortable working in a Mac environment.Proficient use of AutoCAD + Photoshop is required. Sketchup preferred, but not required.The ability to create and work with floor plans, elevations, construction documents, finish schedules, shop drawings and work orders.Prepare client presentationsdrawings, digital mood boards and material flat laysKnowledge of Studio Designer for proposals, purchase orders and reportingYou must be comfortable with hands-on labor during an install as needed.This is a full-time position with standard office hours. Flexibility will be necessary for the occasional evening client meeting, installation, and sometimes just to meet a deadline.All offers are contingent on passing a background check.ABOUT USStudio Svens designs are for the bold. Known for intriguing and nuanced yet extremely livable residential spaces, Studio Sven brings intentionality to luxury living. Lauren Svenstrup leads Studio Sven with a hefty dose of wit and a knowingness for well-curated lifestyles. Every element of the intimate design process is meticulously managed by our team and we thrive on those details.We are a firm that values its small team culture and thrives on collaboration, innovation and providing an unparalleled experience for our clients.

Created: 2025-09-24