Design Director

Design Director | Luxury Residential Interiors Rhythm Careers is partnering with a nationally recognised interior design and architecture studio in Manhattan, specialising in bespoke luxury residential interiors, high-end apartments and large-scale development projects.

This is a pivotal leadership opportunity for an experienced Design Director to take ownership of the studio's creative vision, lead a talented design team and play an influential role in the continued growth of the practice.

Working directly alongside the Founder, you will oversee design direction across the portfolio, maintain exceptional creative standards and guide projects from concept through to installation.

• Establish and lead the studio's creative vision across all projects.
• Oversee design concepts, material palettes, finishes and FF&E selections.
• Lead client presentations and build strong relationships with private clients.
• Mentor and develop a multidisciplinary team of Senior, Intermediate and Junior Designers, Interior Architects and Drafters.
• Review design presentations, construction documents, specifications and shop drawings.
• Oversee multiple projects, ensuring design quality, budgets and timelines remain aligned.
• Work closely with Project Management, Purchasing and Operations to coordinate procurement and project delivery.
• Contribute to studio strategy, recruitment, training and business growth.
• Represent the studio through industry events, press and awards submissions.

• 12+ years' experience in high-end residential interior design or interior architecture.
• 5+ years' experience leading and developing a design team.
• A strong creative identity and proven ability to lead design direction.
• Extensive knowledge of luxury residential interiors, custom millwork, lighting, finishes and FF&E.
• Strong technical understanding of projects from concept through construction documentation and installation.
• Advanced AutoCAD skills, alongside Adobe Creative Suite.
• Excellent client-facing, presentation and leadership skills.
• Commercial awareness, including project budgets, resource planning and profitability.
• Knowledge of New York's design resources, showrooms and specialist artisans.
• Sketch Up, Revit, NCIDQ certification and an established network within the luxury residential market would be advantageous.

• $155,000–$190,000 base salary, depending on experience.
• Medical, dental and vision insurance, with 75% company-paid.
• 401(k) plan.
• Paid holidays and PTO.
• Pre-tax commuter benefits.
• Summer Fridays, finishing at 4pm.
• Professional development support and team events.

Full-time, in-person position based in Manhattan.

Monday to Thursday: 9am–6pmFriday: 9am–4pm