Role SummaryThe Design Director will lead the delivery of high-quality hospitality and multi-family residential interior environments, combining creative excellence, technical expertise, and strong client-facing capabilities. The role involves guiding the design process from concept through construction, ensuring that all work is executed to high standards of functionality, aesthetics, and regulatory compliance within the Canadian context.
Working within a multidisciplinary team of architects, engineers, and consultants, the Senior Interior Designer will coordinate design development, mentor junior staff, support stakeholder communication, and help maintain design quality across all project phases. This position is ideal for a designer with strong experience in the Canadian built environment and a passion for creating refined, user-centred spaces.
Key ResponsibilitiesDesign Leadership- Lead concept development, space planning, material selection, FF&E direction, and overall design narrative for hospitality and multi-family residential projects.
- Deliver compelling client presentations, design packages, and visual storytelling materials.
- Develop high-quality documentation that supports accurate pricing, tendering, and construction.
Project Management & Technical Delivery- Produce and oversee interior design deliverables across all phases including concept, schematic design, design development, tender, and construction documentation.
- Coordinate closely with architectural, MEP, lighting, and sustainability teams to ensure cohesive project delivery.
- Review and approve detailed drawings, millwork/joinery packages, finish schedules, and specifications.
- Conduct site visits, review shop drawings, and support contract administration to maintain design integrity during construction.
- Manage project timelines, workflow, and deliverables to meet client and studio expectations.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement- Serve as a key client contact and maintain strong, trust-based relationships throughout the design and delivery process.
- Present design concepts to clients, consultants, and senior stakeholders confidently and professionally.
- Support proposal writing, interviews, and business development efforts where required.
Team Leadership & Development- Mentor and guide intermediate and junior interior designers, providing feedback on design quality and technical output.
- Encourage collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and best practices within the interior design team.
- Contribute to internal design reviews and studio initiatives.
Quality, Compliance & Standards- Ensure all interior design work complies with Canadian building codes, fire and life safety requirements, and accessibility standards (e.g., AODA, provincial codes).
- Maintain consistency, accuracy, and quality across all documentation and design outputs.
- Promote sustainable design strategies, responsible material selection, and wellness-driven design solutions.
Qualifications- Degree or Diploma from a CIDA-accredited Interior Design program (or equivalent Canadian-recognised institution).
- 10 years plus of professional experience in interior design, ideally within hospitality, multi-family residential, or mixed-use sectors.
- Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and 3D visualisation tools (SketchUp, Enscape, Rhino, etc.).
- Solid understanding of Canadian building codes, accessibility standards, and local permitting processes.
- Experience in preparing detailed design documentation, FF&E packages, and construction drawings to Canadian industry standards.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
