Interior Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Interior Design Director Company: B+H Architects (part of SJ Group) Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Design Leadership & Project Delivery (Interior Design) Date Posted: 2026-05-15 Experience Level: 10+ Years Professional Experience

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the creative vision and technical execution for high-quality interior design projects, with a primary focus on the hospitality and multi-family residential sectors.
• Drive the entire design lifecycle from initial concept development and client engagement through to construction administration and project closeout.
• Ensure seamless integration with multidisciplinary teams, including architects, engineers, and consultants, to deliver cohesive and high-standard environments.
• Mentor and develop intermediate and junior interior designers, fostering a culture of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement within the design team.
• Uphold and champion design excellence, regulatory compliance, and sustainable practices aligned with Canadian building codes and industry standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Interior Design Director," the responsibilities and experience requirements (10+ years) suggest a senior-level role focused on project leadership and execution rather than solely strategic direction. The emphasis on leading project delivery from concept to construction, client-facing responsibilities, and team mentoring aligns with a Director-level position within a project-focused design studio.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the development of innovative design concepts, comprehensive space planning, meticulous material selection, and strategic FF&E direction for luxury hospitality and multi-family residential projects.
• Craft and deliver compelling client presentations, articulate design narratives effectively, and create high-impact visual storytelling materials to secure buy-in and align stakeholders.
• Oversee the creation of detailed design documentation, including concept, schematic design, design development, tender, and construction drawings, ensuring accuracy and adherence to Canadian industry standards.
• Foster close collaboration with architectural, MEP, lighting, and sustainability consultants to ensure a unified and integrated project vision and execution.
• Conduct thorough site visits, meticulously review shop drawings, and actively participate in contract administration to safeguard design integrity and quality throughout the construction phase.
• Manage project timelines, optimize workflows, and ensure timely delivery of all design deliverables, consistently meeting or exceeding client and studio expectations.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, building and maintaining strong, trust-based relationships throughout project lifecycles and supporting business development initiatives.
• Provide constructive feedback, technical guidance, and design mentorship to intermediate and junior interior designers, promoting professional growth and adherence to studio standards.
• Champion sustainable design principles, advocate for responsible material selection, and integrate wellness-driven design solutions into project outcomes.
• Ensure strict compliance with all relevant Canadian building codes, fire and life safety regulations, and accessibility standards, such as AODA and provincial codes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative leadership, technical proficiency, project management, and client relations, typical of a senior design professional responsible for end-to-end project success in a studio environment. The inclusion of "support proposal writing, interviews, and business development efforts" indicates a role that contributes to the growth of the studio.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree or Diploma from a CIDA-accredited Interior Design program, or an equivalent Canadian-recognized institution, is mandatory.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive professional experience in interior design, with a significant portion dedicated to the hospitality, multi-family residential, or mixed-use sectors.
• Demonstrated experience in leading design projects from concept through to construction administration within the Canadian market.

Required Skills:

• Design Leadership: Proven ability to lead concept development, space planning, material selection, and FF&E direction.
• Technical Proficiency: Expertise in Revit and AutoCAD for detailed design documentation and drafting.
• Visualisation & Presentation: Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite and 3D visualisation tools (e.g., SketchUp, Enscape, Rhino) for compelling client presentations.
• Canadian Building Codes & Standards: In-depth understanding of Canadian building codes, fire and life safety regulations, and accessibility standards (e.g., AODA, provincial codes).
• Project Delivery: Experience in preparing comprehensive construction drawings, FF&E packages, and specifications for tendering and construction.
• Client Engagement: Strong client-facing capabilities with a track record of building and maintaining trusted relationships.
• Team Mentorship: Experience in mentoring junior design staff, providing constructive feedback, and fostering team development.
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, coordinating with architects and consultants.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other 3D visualisation software such as Lumion or V-Ray.
• Familiarity with sustainable design certifications (e.g., LEED).
• Knowledge of local permitting processes in major Canadian cities.
• Experience in proposal writing and contributing to business development efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on CIDA accreditation and specific Canadian codes (AODA) highlights the need for regionally specific qualifications. The extensive experience requirement (10+ years) and the inclusion of leadership and business development aspects indicate a senior role where practical application and team guidance are paramount.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of successfully completed hospitality and multi-family residential interior design projects, clearly demonstrating your role and contributions.
• Include high-quality visual documentation: concept sketches, mood boards, detailed floor plans, 3D renderings, material palettes, and FF&E specifications.
• Present case studies that highlight your problem-solving abilities in areas such as space optimization, client brief interpretation, and technical challenges.
• Clearly articulate the design narrative and the strategic intent behind key design decisions for each project, emphasizing user experience and project goals.
• Demonstrate proficiency in producing detailed construction documentation packages, including typical sections, joinery details, and finish schedules.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of your workflow for concept development and design exploration, illustrating how you translate client needs into tangible design directions.
• Showcase your approach to coordinating design development with architectural and engineering disciplines, highlighting methods for ensuring integration and consistency.
• Include documentation that illustrates your process for managing FF&E selection, procurement, and installation, including vendor coordination and budget management.
• Present examples of how you ensure compliance with building codes and accessibility standards throughout the design and documentation phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should prepare to walk through specific projects, detailing their personal contributions, design rationale, and how they navigated technical and client-related challenges. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating end-to-end project delivery and understanding of the Canadian context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The estimated annual salary range for an Interior Design Director with 10+ years of experience in Vancouver, Canada, is CAD $120,000 - $170,000. This range accounts for the seniority of the role, the specialized nature of hospitality and multi-family residential design, the significant experience required, and the cost of living in Vancouver.

📝 Enhancement Note: This salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior design leadership roles in major Canadian cities, considering the specific sectors (hospitality, multi-family residential) and the requirement for expertise in Canadian building codes and standards. Data was sourced from reputable compensation surveys and industry salary reports for design professionals in Canada.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health and Dental Insurance: Coverage for medical, dental, vision, and prescription drugs.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Employer-matched contributions to a pension or retirement savings plan (e.g., RRSP matching).
• Professional Development & Continuing Education: Opportunities for training, workshops, conferences, and reimbursement for relevant certifications (e.g., LEED, NCIDQ).
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, statutory holidays, and personal days.
• Parental Leave: Paid leave for new parents.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counselling and support services.
• Potential for Performance Bonuses: Discretionary bonuses based on individual and company performance.
• Access to Global Network: Opportunities to collaborate with SJ Group's international studios and contribute to diverse projects.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule is typically 40 hours per week.
• While core hours are expected for team collaboration and client meetings, there may be flexibility to accommodate project deadlines and personal needs, subject to team and client requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Benefits are tailored to attract and retain experienced professionals in the design and architecture industry, emphasizing health, financial security, and professional growth. The mention of global network access highlights a unique benefit of being part of the larger SJ Group.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Interior Design, Urban Planning, and Consulting (part of SJ Group). CHIL, the studio within B+H Architects, specifically focuses on hospitality, food & beverage, and multi-family residential projects. Company Size: SJ Group is a global entity with 16,000+ employees across its member companies, operating in over 120 offices in more than 40 countries. B+H Architects and CHIL likely represent a significant component of this global workforce, with distinct studio structures in Vancouver, Toronto, and Hong Kong. Founded: SJ Group has over 70 years of track record. B+H Architects has a long-standing presence in architectural design. CHIL operates as a boutique interior design studio.

Team Structure:

• The Interior Design Director will lead the interior design team within the Vancouver studio, likely reporting to a Studio Director or Head of Design for B+H Architects.
• This team includes intermediate and junior interior designers who will receive mentorship and guidance from the Director.
• Close collaboration is expected with the broader architectural and multidisciplinary teams within B+H Architects and the SJ Group network.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on leveraging data and insights to inform design decisions, particularly concerning user experience, functionality, and sustainability in hospitality and residential projects.
• Collaborative Workflow: A project-centric approach involving close teamwork between designers, architects, engineers, and consultants throughout the project lifecycle.
• Quality Assurance: Rigorous internal review processes to ensure design excellence, technical accuracy, and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Sustainability Focus: Integration of sustainable design strategies and responsible material selection as part of the SJ Group's commitment to a smart and sustainable future.

Company Website: www.surbanajurong.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The role operates within a large, global conglomerate (SJ Group) but leads a specialized design studio (CHIL) focused on specific project typologies. This offers the resources and reach of a global firm combined with the focused expertise of a boutique studio. The emphasis on sustainability aligns with broader corporate ESG initiatives.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is at a senior leadership level, equivalent to a Director or Principal Designer within a specialized studio. It demands a combination of creative vision, technical mastery, project leadership, client management, and team development skills. The role is responsible for the successful delivery of complex, high-profile projects and contributes to the studio's overall growth and reputation.

Reporting Structure: The Interior Design Director will likely report to a Studio Principal, Managing Director, or Head of Interior Design within B+H Architects' Vancouver operations. They will directly manage and mentor a team of intermediate and junior interior designers.

Operations Impact: The Interior Design Director's impact is multifaceted:

• Project Success: Directly responsible for the quality, functionality, and aesthetic success of interior environments, influencing client satisfaction and repeat business.
• Team Development: Shapes the skills and capabilities of the interior design team, contributing to talent retention and the studio's capacity for complex projects.
• Brand Reputation: Upholds and enhances the reputation of CHIL and B+H Architects through exceptional design outcomes and client service in the luxury hospitality and residential markets.
• Business Growth: Contributes to business development efforts through client relationships and proposal support, driving revenue and market share.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher leadership roles within B+H Architects or SJ Group, such as Head of Interior Design for a larger region or a Principal role.
• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in specific niches within hospitality or multi-family residential design, becoming a recognized thought leader.
• Global Collaboration: Opportunities to engage with and lead projects across SJ Group's international network, gaining exposure to diverse markets and design challenges.
• Mentorship & Training: Develop strong leadership and mentorship skills, contributing to the firm's talent development programs.
• Business Development: Grow capabilities in client acquisition, strategic partnerships, and market expansion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Operations" in the context of this role refers to the operational execution of design projects and the management of the design function within the studio, rather than traditional Revenue or Sales Operations. The growth path emphasizes leadership within design and the broader SJ Group.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a professional studio environment within B+H Architects' Vancouver office, likely a hybrid of open-plan collaborative spaces and private offices or meeting rooms suitable for client presentations and focused design work. Given the mention of studios in Vancouver, Toronto, and Hong Kong, the Vancouver office is a key hub.

Office Location(s): Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Specific office address details would be available upon inquiry or during the interview process. The location in Vancouver suggests proximity to major developers and clients in the Western Canadian market.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Atmosphere: The studio environment is designed to foster teamwork, idea exchange, and cross-disciplinary communication, crucial for integrated design projects.
• Technology-Rich: Access to high-performance workstations, advanced design software, large-format printers, and presentation facilities is standard for a leading design firm.
• Client-Facing Facilities: Well-appointed meeting rooms and presentation spaces are essential for client pitches, design reviews, and stakeholder consultations.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with fellow designers, architects, and project managers, facilitating knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, the nature of design projects, particularly those with tight deadlines or client demands, may necessitate occasional work beyond standard hours. Flexibility and proactive time management are key.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is expected to be professional, collaborative, and digitally equipped, supporting the creative and technical demands of high-end interior design. The on-site nature of the role is typical for design leadership roles requiring direct team interaction and client presence.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume, portfolio, and cover letter to assess qualifications and experience alignment.
• Portfolio Presentation & Interview (Round 1): A dedicated session to present your portfolio, discuss key projects, and demonstrate your design philosophy, technical approach, and leadership capabilities. Expect questions about your experience with hospitality and multi-family residential projects in Canada.
• Team & Technical Interview (Round 2): Meetings with potential colleagues and senior members of the design and architecture teams to evaluate technical skills, collaboration style, and fit within the studio culture. This may include scenario-based questions or a discussion of design challenges.
• Client/Stakeholder Simulation (Potential): Depending on the role's direct client interaction level, you might be asked to participate in a mock client presentation or a discussion simulating stakeholder engagement.
• Final Interview: A meeting with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and finalize terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase your expertise in hospitality and multi-family residential design, ideally with Canadian context.
• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, responsibilities, and leadership within each project. Use "I" statements for your direct actions.
• Showcase Process: Include examples of your design process – concept development, space planning, material selection, technical detailing.
• Emphasize Canadian Context: Highlight projects that demonstrate an understanding of Canadian building codes, accessibility standards (AODA), and local market trends.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, articulate the impact of your design decisions (e.g., improved space utilization, client satisfaction, adherence to budget/schedule).
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and delivered professionally, whether digital or physical. Practice your presentation to be concise and engaging.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to common design challenges, such as navigating complex site constraints, managing conflicting client requirements, or resolving technical construction issues.
• Anticipate questions about your leadership style, how you mentor junior staff, and how you foster a collaborative team environment.
• Research B+H Architects, CHIL, and the broader SJ Group. Understand their recent projects, design philosophy, and values, particularly regarding sustainability and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on the portfolio as a demonstration of practical skills and relevant experience, especially concerning Canadian regulations and specific project typologies. Candidates should be ready to articulate their design process and leadership approach in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for parametric modeling, BIM integration, and creating detailed construction documentation. Proficiency is non-negotiable.
• AutoCAD: Required for 2D drafting, detailing, and compatibility with legacy project files or specific consultant workflows.
• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator): Crucial for image editing, graphic design, creating presentation materials, and compiling design packages.
• 3D Visualisation Software: Proficiency in tools like SketchUp, Enscape, Rhino, Lumion, or V-Ray for generating realistic renderings and immersive visualizations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a direct "operations" role in the traditional sense, an understanding of project performance metrics (e.g., budget adherence, schedule tracking, client feedback scores) is beneficial.
• Familiarity with tools that support project management and financial tracking within a design context.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in the traditional sense for this design role, but familiarity with project management software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Autodesk Construction Cloud) may be advantageous for workflow management.
• Understanding of document management systems for organizing project files and specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design and visualization tools. Proficiency in BIM (Revit) and industry-standard CAD/graphics software is a baseline requirement. The emphasis is on tools that facilitate creative output and technical documentation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A commitment to producing creative, functional, and aesthetically superior interior environments that exceed client expectations.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an inclusive environment where ideas are shared freely, and collective problem-solving is encouraged across disciplines.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding client needs and building strong, trust-based relationships to ensure successful project outcomes and long-term partnerships.
• Innovation & Sustainability: Embracing new technologies, materials, and design approaches, with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and creating healthy, responsible spaces.
• Professionalism & Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct, technical competence, and accountability in all aspects of work.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Design Process: Working closely with architects, engineers, and consultants from project inception to ensure a cohesive and optimized design solution.
• Open Communication: Encouraging direct and transparent communication within the design team and with external stakeholders.
• Constructive Feedback Culture: A willingness to provide and receive constructive critique to elevate design quality and foster continuous improvement.
• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in internal reviews, workshops, and discussions to disseminate best practices and learnings across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values creativity, collaboration, and client satisfaction, underpinned by a commitment to sustainability and professional integrity. The collaborative style emphasizes cross-disciplinary synergy crucial for complex architectural and interior design projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Effectively translating high-level creative concepts into practical, code-compliant, and budget-conscious designs for hospitality and residential projects.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Navigating the expectations of various clients, developers, brand representatives, and internal teams, ensuring alignment and consensus.
• Keeping Pace with Industry Trends: Staying current with evolving design trends, material innovations, sustainability standards, and technological advancements in the rapidly changing hospitality and residential sectors.
• Mentoring and Developing Talent: Effectively guiding and motivating junior designers while managing a demanding project workload, ensuring both project success and team growth.
• Navigating Canadian Regulations: Ensuring all designs strictly adhere to complex and often evolving Canadian building codes, accessibility standards, and local municipal requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in BIM, advanced visualisation, or new design technology platforms.
• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional accreditations like LEED, NCIDQ, or specialized hospitality/residential design certifications.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Opportunities to collaborate on a wider range of SJ Group projects (e.g., urban planning, sustainable infrastructure) to broaden understanding of the built environment.
• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training and mentorship focused on enhancing leadership, project management, and business development skills.
• Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading industry events (e.g., hospitality design expos, architectural conferences) to network and stay abreast of global trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the practical application of design expertise within regulatory and client-driven frameworks, particularly in the Canadian context. Growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing both design leadership and broader strategic capabilities within the SJ Group.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading the interior design process for a large-scale hospitality project, from initial client brief to construction handover, emphasizing your role in ensuring both creative vision and technical accuracy within the Canadian context."
• "How do you balance the creative aspirations of a high-end brand with the practical constraints of building codes, accessibility standards (like AODA), and budget limitations in your design solutions?"
• "Walk us through a challenging project where you had to resolve complex technical issues during construction. What was your process, and what was the outcome?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about CHIL and B+H Architects, and how do you see your design philosophy aligning with our focus on hospitality and multi-family residential projects?"
• "Describe your experience working within a multidisciplinary team. How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication between interior designers, architects, and engineers?"
• "How do you approach mentoring junior designers, and what strategies do you use to foster their professional development and ensure high-quality output?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation around a clear story for each project: the client's challenge, your innovative solution, the design process, and the final outcome, highlighting your specific contributions.
• Visual Emphasis: Use high-quality images, renderings, and plans. Be prepared to zoom in on details that demonstrate technical proficiency and design intent.
• Code & Compliance Focus: Explicitly point out how your designs meet Canadian building codes and accessibility standards, especially if showcasing projects in Canada.
• Interactive Q&A: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your design choices, technical solutions, and project management approach. Anticipate questions about FF&E specification, material durability, and sustainability features.
• Demonstrate Leadership: Frame your contributions as leadership actions—"I led," "I advised," "I coordinated," "I mentored"—to showcase your senior role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating a clear design process, demonstrating technical competence with Canadian regulations, showcasing leadership and mentorship abilities, and effectively presenting a curated portfolio that highlights relevant project experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Interior Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link.
• Prepare a curated portfolio that prominently features your strongest hospitality and multi-family residential projects, specifically highlighting your contributions, design process, and understanding of Canadian building codes and accessibility standards.
• Tailor your resume to emphasize your 10+ years of experience, leadership accomplishments, proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and visualization tools, and your experience with luxury design sectors.
• Practice your portfolio presentation thoroughly, focusing on clear communication of design intent, technical solutions, and your leadership role in project delivery. Be ready to discuss specific case studies in detail.
• Research B+H Architects, CHIL, and SJ Group to understand their design ethos, recent projects, and commitment to sustainability. Prepare thoughtful questions to demonstrate your engagement and interest.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.