Director of Interior Design (Residential) - API Partners, LLC : Job Details

OVERVIEW

Our client is a leading New York City–based architecture and design practice recognized for its award-winning, multidisciplinary work. Known for its collaborative approach and creative rigor, the firm has experienced sustained growth and success for over 25 years. They are seeking a Director of Interior Design to provide strategic leadership and creative direction for their high-end residential interiors team. This role combines hands-on design leadership with operational oversight, offering the opportunity to shape both the creative output and the continued development of the studio's interiors practice.

The position reports to the Principal leading the interiors team and serves as a key counterpart in driving design excellence, team performance, and client satisfaction. The interiors group is dedicated to luxury single-family residential projects, with clients concentrated in premier markets across the country.

RESPONSBILITIES

• Provide overall creative and design direction for single-family residential projects, from concept through construction and installation.
• Serve as the primary client contact, leading presentations, design reviews and overall relationship management.
• Lead the design and execution of custom FF&E in collaboration with fabricators and vendors.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of interior designers, project managers, and procurement staff, ensuring clarity of roles, timelines, and deliverables.
• Review and oversee all project documentation, including furniture development drawings, detailing, and consultant coordination.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects while balancing design quality and efficiency.
• Support firm growth through client development, operational initiatives, and team mentorship.
• Monitor project budgets, invoicing, and financial alignment with studio goals.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS

• Professional degree in Interior Design or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in high-end residential design, including leadership of internal teams
• Strong conceptual, aesthetic, and problem-solving skills and a deep concentration of residential project experience
• Proven track record in developing and managing client relationships
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts effectively to both clients and team members
• In-depth knowledge of furniture, finishes, and current design trends
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Google SketchUp – Revit a plus
• Available to travel to site as needed