Design Director (Commercial Interiors)

The Design Director is a senior creative and operational authority on all commercial engagements, accountable for design quality, project economics, team performance, and client experience. This is a full-time position based in New York City, with some flexibility to work from home.

Role Description

Design Leadership:

• Follows the creative direction and design standards for all commercial projects, from concept through construction administration, ensuring every project reflects Company values: Elegance, Curation, and Integrity.
• Leads schematic design, design development, and construction documents on complex, high-profile commercial engagements.
• Integrates interior architecture seamlessly with decorating and FF&E across project phases.

Client and Business Development:

• Serves as the primary client relationship owner for commercial accounts, from first meeting through project closeout.
• Represents Pembrooke & Ives in pitches, presentations, and industry forums; helps grow the commercial pipeline.
• Identifies and cultivates strategic partnerships with developers, brokers, corporate real estate clients, and hospitality operators.

Team Development and Operations:

• Leads, mentors, and develops the commercial design team across all levels (Senior through Junior).
• Manages project scheduling and utilization planning.
• Drives adherence to disciplined phasing, proactive client communication, and margin-conscious delivery.
• Establishes and refines commercial-specific SOPs, drawing standards, and quality control protocols.
• Collaborates across Design and Decorating/FF&E teams to share knowledge and resource talent where appropriate.

Firm Leadership:

• Participates in firm-wide leadership discussions, including strategic planning, culture, and professional development.
• Contributes to the firm’s visibility in the commercial market through editorial placements, speaking engagements, and award submissions.
• Provides mentorship and growth pathways for rising talent in the firm.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in commercial interior design or interior architecture, with 4+ years in a senior leadership or studio director role.
• Demonstrated portfolio across multiple commercial projects and typologies.
• Deep proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite; comfort with 3D visualization tools.
• Strong command of commercial building codes and accessibility requirements.
• Proven ability to manage projects from concept and programming through construction administration in conjunction with external consultants.
• Experience managing project economics: fee negotiation, budget tracking, and margin accountability.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills; polished client-facing presence with all parties of commercial projects.
• Experience with large scale presentations to membership groups through multiple phases of projects.
• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Architecture, or other relevant degrees.
• Experience working in or with boutique luxury or high-end design firms where craft and client service are primary differentiators preferred.
• New York City or other targeted geographic market experience and existing client relationships preferred.

Salary Range $190,000.00 - $220,000.00 (depending on experience) + Performance-Based Bonus

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Parental Leave Plans
• Paid Public Holidays
• Hybrid Work Schedule (Office Based in Midtown, Manhattan)
• Commuter Benefits
• 401(k) Match