
Director of Interior Design | Residential Interiors
API Partners, LLC, New York, NY, United States
OVERVIEW
Our client is a nationally recognized architecture and interiors studio celebrated for its refined design sensibility and deeply personalized approach to residential environments. For over two decades, the firm has built an enduring reputation for creating tailored, timeless spaces that merge craft, innovation, and livability. With an expanding portfolio of award-winning private residences across the country, the practice has become known for projects that balance architectural rigor with warmth, comfort, and a keen attention to detail. As the practice continues to evolve, they are seeking a Design Director to lead and elevate their interiors team.
This role provides both creative and operational leadership, driving design excellence, ensuring seamless project delivery, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing culture. The Design Director will report to the firm's partners and work closely with design and architectural leadership to shape the next evolution of the studio's interiors practice. This is an opportunity to influence the creative direction of a respected firm while building and mentoring a talented team in a design-driven, collaborative environment.
RESPONSBILITIES
Design Leadership & Project Oversight
Provide creative direction for all single-family residential interiors, guiding projects from concept through installation
Maintain design integrity across all phases, ensuring each project reflects the studio's aesthetic and quality standards
Partner with architectural and technical teams to develop cohesive, integrated design solutions
Review and refine FF&E documentation
Participate in material reviews, design charrettes, and construction coordination as needed
Oversee multiple concurrent projects, balancing creative rigor with operational efficiency and profitability
Attend site visits and client meetings as required
Client Engagement & Relationship Management
Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, leading design presentations, progress meetings, and on-site reviews
Build and sustain long-term relationships through exceptional service, communication, and design delivery
Manage expectations and maintain alignment between client vision, budget, and design intent
Contribute to business development efforts in tandem with Interior Design Principal
Team Leadership & Studio Management
Lead and mentor a team of designers, project managers, and procurement specialists
Define team structure, assign project roles, and monitor workload distribution and performance
Provide hands-on guidance and professional development opportunities, fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability
Ensure operational excellence through clear processes, documentation standards, and quality control
Partner with firm leadership on staffing, resourcing, and financial planning for the interiors discipline
SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS
Professional degree in Interior Design or related field
8+ years of experience in high-end single-family residential interiors, with experience autonomously leading projects and teams
Proven ability to lead complex, custom residential projects from design through installation
Exceptional design sensibility and aesthetic judgment, with deep knowledge of materials, detailing, and fabrication
Strong communication and presentation skills; confident leading clients and internal teams
Demonstrated experience managing budgets, timelines, and staffing for multiple projects concurrently
Proficiency in AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Cloud; Revit experience a plus
Willingness to travel as required for client meetings and site visits