Design Director Role Summary
A prestigious international interior design studio is seeking a Design Director to join its growing London studio. They are renowned for delivering beautifully crafted hospitality and lifestyle spaces. This role sits at the forefront of the business, championing creativity, quality, and innovation across all design phases, from concept through to completion.
The successful candidate will bring a proven track record of leading high-end hospitality, leisure and residential projects across global markets, combined with a confident, client-facing presence and an inspiring leadership style.
The Design Director Role
The Design Director will be responsible for overseeing multiple projects across new-build and refurbishment schemes. These range from luxury hotels to boutique residential and leisure destinations, with a consistent focus on FF&E, colour palettes, and refined materiality.
Working closely with clients, consultants, and internal teams, you’ll guide design vision, ensure project excellence, and act as the key point of contact throughout the life of each project. You’ll be supported by a multidisciplinary team and play a crucial role in mentoring and shaping the future generation of designers.
Key Responsibilities
Creative Leadership
Champion design excellence and innovation, setting the creative direction across all projects
Lead the design process from concept to completion, ensuring alignment with client briefs and brand values
Oversee presentation development and design narratives that engage and excite clients
Project Direction
Manage a portfolio of commercial, hospitality and residential projects simultaneously
Lead client meetings, presentations and workshops, acting as primary liaison throughout
Monitor budgets, timelines and resources, ensuring smooth delivery and quality control
Conduct feasibility studies, develop detailed design packages, and oversee site execution
Team & Resource Management
Inspire, mentor, and lead a talented team of designers and architects
Allocate resources across the studio effectively and efficiently
Conduct performance reviews, establish KPIs, and support team development
Promote a culture of collaboration, accountability and creativity
Quality & Delivery
Ensure the highest level of design output, consistency, and innovation
Lead the practice’s Project Quality Process (PQP), embedding best practices across all stages
Coordinate with consultants, suppliers, and internal procurement teams for project execution
Stay ahead of industry trends, technology and global design benchmarks
What You Bring
12+ years’ experience in interior architecture or interior design, with a strong hospitality focus
A degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or Architecture
Exceptional design sensibility paired with commercial acumen
Strong leadership and team management skills, with a proven ability to inspire and grow a studio
Demonstrable experience managing large-scale and complex projects globally
Confidence in presenting to senior stakeholders, clients and operators
Excellent knowledge of FF&E, space planning, materials and finishes
Experience in post-contract phases, budget management, procurement and delivery
Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office
Fluent English communication skills – written, spoken and visual
A proactive, solutions-driven mindset and a genuine passion for design excellence
Why Join?
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a globally respected practice with a vibrant London studio and a pipeline of landmark projects. You’ll enjoy a collaborative and design-led culture, with the autonomy to drive creative direction and shape iconic spaces worldwide.
If you’re a visionary leader with a refined design eye and a passion for hospitality interiors, we’d love to hear from you.