Logo
STUDIO SVEN

LEAD DESIGNER/PROJECT DIRECTOR

STUDIO SVEN, Chicago

Save Job

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.

We’re looking for a natural connector—someone 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 YOU

  • You live design. You’re constantly on the hunt for inspiration. Your Instagram saves and sources are a treasured catalog of what’s next.
  • You understand the importance of relationships and you’ve mastered the art of working collaboratively—with your team, trades, sales reps and showrooms—to make your job easier.
  • You’ve got an eye for detail and the discipline to execute a creative vision flawlessly. You can translate the principal’s design direction into reality.
  • You have a proven history of being detailed and organized. You’re 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.
  • You’re 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 don’t go according to plan, but you’re 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.
  • You’re looking for a firm you can grow with and a place where your contribution to the team culture matters.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • DESIGN + OVERSIGHT – Collaborate with the Principal on Design Direction for each project, then bring the vision to life, ensuring the designs meet the firm’s aesthetic and standards.
  • PROJECT LEADERSHIP – Take the lead on multiple projects from start to finish, guiding everything from early concepts through to construction. You’ll 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. You’ll 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 firm’s bigger-picture goals, which may include marketing, social media, and outreach efforts.

REQUISITES

  • Must currently reside in Chicago and have a valid driver’s license; access to reliable transportation is required.
  • Comfortable 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 presentations—drawings, digital mood boards and material flat lays
  • Knowledge of Studio Designer for proposals, purchase orders and reporting
  • You 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 US

Studio Sven’s 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.

Seniority level

  • Seniority level

    Mid-Senior level

Employment type

  • Employment type

    Full-time

Job function

  • Job function

    Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
  • Industries

    Design Services

Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at STUDIO SVEN by 2x

Sign in to set job alerts for “Designer Project Lead” roles.

Chicago, IL $84,500.00-$112,600.00 3 weeks ago

Chicago, IL $101,800.00-$133,500.00 5 days ago

Chicago, IL $90,000.00-$130,000.00 2 weeks ago

Chicago, IL $115,000.00-$140,000.00 1 day ago

Chicago, IL $63,000.00-$72,000.00 1 week ago

ARCHITECT II (Construction & Compliance Division)

Greater Chicago Area $76,500.00-$187,000.00 4 days ago

Chicago, IL $70,000.00-$90,000.00 3 hours ago

Chicago, IL $50,000.00-$58,000.00 1 day ago

Project Architect - Commercial Interiors

Chicago, IL $85,000.00-$115,000.00 2 weeks ago

Greater Chicago Area $86,100.00-$144,700.00 1 week ago

Chicago, IL $60,000.00-$75,000.00 5 days ago

Chicago, IL $70,000.00-$83,000.00 1 day ago

Technical Designer - Architecture - Senior

Chicago, IL $90,000.00-$116,000.00 1 month ago

Chicago, IL $110,000.00-$150,000.00 2 weeks ago

Chicago, IL $130,000.00-$175,000.00 6 days ago

Technical Designer - Architecture - Mid Level

Chicago, IL $73,000.00-$85,000.00 1 month ago

Chicago, IL $93,000.00-$125,000.00 1 day ago

Chicago, IL $95,000.00-$117,000.00 1 month ago

Project Architect - Commercial Construction

Chicago, IL $100,000.00-$124,000.00 1 month ago

Greater Chicago Area $100,000.00-$120,000.00 4 weeks ago

Woodridge, IL $48.08-$ minutes ago

Chicago, IL $88,000.00-$132,000.00 1 month ago

Chicago, IL $133,400.00-$199,700.00 5 days ago

Chicago, IL $145,000.00-$160,000.00 2 months ago

Chicago, IL $110,000.00-$128,000.00 1 week ago

We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.

#J-18808-Ljbffr