Interior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Interior Design Manager

Company: Blue Heron Companies

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Interior Design, Luxury Residential Design, Design Management

Date Posted: 2025-06-12T23:27:55

Experience Level: 7-10+ years (Manager)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🎨 Role Summary

• Lead and mentor interior design teams focused on luxury residential projects, ensuring design excellence and project delivery.
• Manage client relationships from discovery to installation, providing a world-class design experience.
• Drive operational efficiency, standardization, and cross-functional collaboration within the design department and across the company.
• Blend creative vision with strategic business management to achieve both design innovation and financial accountability on projects.

🖼️ Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive client discovery and intake sessions, including lifestyle interviews and campus tours, to deeply understand client needs and preferences for luxury residential projects.
• Provide leadership and oversight throughout all project phases, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in alignment with both client expectations and Blue Heron's high standards for quality and innovation.
• Champion creative design solutions and technical precision in all project deliverables, ensuring designs reflect Blue Heron's distinctive aesthetic and meet rigorous quality standards.
• Offer day-to-day leadership, mentorship, and professional development support to Interior Designers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture.
• Enhance sales conversion rates by developing and delivering compelling design presentations that effectively communicate the value and vision of proposed designs to clients.
• Maintain project-level financial accountability by aligning design decisions with budget parameters, closely monitoring design-related expenditures, and contributing to overall project profitability goals.
• Lead and actively participate in team meetings, project reviews, and cross-functional discussions to share insights, proactively identify and resolve challenges, and reinforce design best practices.
• Manage and optimize internal design systems and workflows to ensure accessibility, accuracy, and seamless alignment with project needs and team operations.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams including Sales, Architecture, Marketing, and Procurement to ensure design execution is aligned with broader project strategies and construction requirements.
• Partner with artisans, manufacturers, and external vendors to source innovative and high-quality materials and furnishings, ensuring timely procurement and delivery of FF&E items.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field from an accredited institution. This foundational education is crucial for understanding design principles, architectural context, and the technical aspects of interior design within a luxury residential setting.

Experience: 7–10+ years of progressive experience in high-end residential or luxury hospitality interior design. This extensive experience is required to demonstrate a deep understanding of the luxury market, complex project management, and the ability to lead sophisticated design projects from concept to completion. A strong portfolio showcasing custom residential or hospitality work is essential to demonstrate design innovation, aesthetic clarity, and technical precision.

Required Skills:

• Proven leadership experience in managing interior design teams, including mentoring and coaching designers at various career stages.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee high-performing design departments and foster a collaborative, supportive, and results-oriented team environment.
• Exceptional ability to lead client-facing conversations, demonstrating professionalism, high emotional intelligence, and clear, persuasive communication skills tailored to a luxury clientele.
• Superior organizational and project management skills, with the capacity to effectively manage multiple complex projects concurrently while meeting strict deadlines and preserving the original design intent.
• Strong working knowledge of construction methodologies, architectural detailing, and finish materials relevant to high-end residential construction and interior design.
• Highly skilled proficiency in industry-standard design and productivity tools including Microsoft Office Suite for documentation and presentations, Bluebeam for markups and collaboration, and SketchUp for 3D modeling and visualization.
• Deep understanding of FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) specification, procurement workflows, construction documentation standards, and installation protocols in a luxury context.

Preferred Skills:

• Working knowledge of Revit, demonstrating familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) software for integrated design and documentation workflows.
• NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification) certification, indicating a recognized level of professional competency in interior design practice.
• Experience with sustainable design practices or certifications (e.g., LEED, WELL), reflecting an understanding of environmentally conscious design in luxury homes.
• Familiarity with project management software specific to the design or construction industry (beyond basic tools) for enhanced project tracking and reporting.

🎨 Portfolio & Creative Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Present a curated selection of 3-5 high-end residential or luxury hospitality projects that best showcase your design vision, aesthetic range, and technical capabilities.
• For each project, include high-quality professional photography that captures the finished space and key design details.
• Include examples of construction documentation, including detailed drawings, specifications, and schedules, demonstrating your technical precision and understanding of the build process.
• Showcase examples of FF&E selections, including furniture, lighting, materials, and finishes, highlighting your ability to curate sophisticated and appropriate palettes for luxury environments.

Process Documentation:

• For at least one project, provide a detailed case study outlining your design process from initial client discovery and conceptualization through to installation and completion. Highlight your approach to understanding client lifestyle and functional priorities.
• Document your ideation and iteration methods, including sketches, mood boards, 3D renderings, and material samples, demonstrating your creative process and design exploration.
• Explain your approach to validation and testing, including how you gathered client feedback, incorporated revisions, and ensured the design met both aesthetic and functional requirements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The typical salary range for an Interior Design Manager in Las Vegas, Nevada, with 7-10+ years of experience in luxury residential design is estimated to be between $90,000 and $140,000 annually. This estimate is based on market data for design management roles in the Las Vegas area, considering the cost of living, the specialized nature of luxury residential design, and the required level of experience and leadership. Specific compensation will depend on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the specific responsibilities of the role within Blue Heron Companies.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance plan, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, supporting employee well-being.
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match, providing long-term financial security.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays, supporting work-life balance and rest.
• Professional development opportunities, such as support for continued education, certifications (like NCIDQ), and industry conference attendance, fostering growth in design skills and leadership.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses, recognizing contributions to project success, sales conversion, and team performance.
• Employee discounts on company services or products, where applicable, allowing employees to experience the luxury designs they help create.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be required to accommodate client meetings, project deadlines, and occasional evening or weekend events related to installations or presentations, common in luxury design roles. The hybrid work model offers some flexibility between in-office and remote work.

🎯Team & Company Context

🏢 Company & Design Culture

Industry: Architecture and Planning, specifically focused on Luxury Residential Building and Design. Blue Heron operates within the high-end real estate and design market, creating custom homes with a focus on innovative desert contemporary design. This context means the design culture values creativity, precision, and a deep understanding of luxury clientele and their unique needs.

Company Size: 51-200 employees (LinkedIn). A company of this size likely has established processes but also offers opportunities for individuals to have a significant impact and contribute to the company's growth and direction. The design team is likely structured to handle multiple high-profile projects concurrently.

Founded: 2004. With over 20 years in operation, Blue Heron has a solid history and established reputation in the luxury residential market in Las Vegas and beyond. This history suggests a stable environment with proven expertise in design and construction.

Team Structure:

• The Interior Design Manager reports to senior leadership (likely a Director or VP level).
• Manages a team of Interior Designers at various levels (Junior, Mid-level, Senior).
• Works closely with cross-functional teams including Architecture, Sales, Marketing, Procurement, and Construction.

Methodology:

• Emphasizes a design-led approach, where design innovation is central to their development process.
• Likely employs a structured project management methodology to handle the complexity of luxury residential projects from concept to completion.
• Focuses on creating "desert contemporary design," suggesting an emphasis on integrating indoor and outdoor spaces, utilizing natural materials, and leveraging the unique Las Vegas environment.
• Involves a collaborative process between architecture, interior design, and construction teams to ensure a cohesive and integrated final product.

Company Website: http://www.blueheron.com

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Design Career Level: This is a mid-to-senior level management position within the interior design discipline. The role requires not only advanced design skills but also significant leadership experience, project management capabilities, and client relationship management expertise. It's a step up from a Senior Interior Designer role, involving team oversight and strategic departmental contributions.

Reporting Structure: The Interior Design Manager likely reports to a higher-level design leader (e.g., Director of Design) or potentially a principal within the company, given its privately held structure. This places the manager in a key position to influence design direction and operational efficiency while being supported by senior leadership.

Design Impact: The design manager has a direct and significant impact on the quality and success of luxury residential projects. By leading the design team and managing client relationships, this role ensures that Blue Heron's aesthetic vision is realized and that client expectations are exceeded, contributing directly to the company's reputation and business outcomes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential advancement to a Director or VP level role within the design organization, overseeing a larger team or broader strategic initiatives.
• Opportunities to specialize further within luxury residential design, perhaps focusing on specific types of projects (e.g., high-rise penthouses, large estates) or design elements (e.g., custom millwork, smart home integration).
• Development of leadership skills through managing a team, mentoring junior designers, and contributing to the growth and professional development of the design department.
• Increased involvement in business development and sales support, leveraging design expertise to secure new projects and enhance the company's market position.

🌐 Work Environment

Studio Type: Hybrid work environment, combining on-site work at the Las Vegas office/studio and potential flexibility for remote work. This blended approach likely supports both collaborative team work and focused individual design tasks.

Office Location(s): 6521 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89119-3219. Being located on Las Vegas Blvd suggests a professional and possibly high-profile location, aligning with their luxury market focus. The primary office likely serves as the central hub for design collaboration, client meetings, and accessing physical resources like material libraries.

Design Workspace Context:

• The office likely includes dedicated design studio space equipped with necessary tools, material libraries, and meeting rooms for team collaboration and client presentations.
• Proximity to project sites in the Las Vegas area is important for site visits, installations, and coordinating with construction teams.
• The hybrid model suggests the company has invested in technology and infrastructure to support remote work capabilities for design tasks that can be performed off-site.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time schedule. The hybrid nature implies a balance between structured in-office time for collaboration and potentially more flexible remote work days. The demands of luxury projects may require flexibility for client meetings or site visits outside of standard hours.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Design Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: An HR or recruitment specialist will likely conduct a preliminary call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your overall background and interest in luxury residential design.
• Portfolio Review & Design Leadership Discussion: A key interview stage will involve presenting your portfolio to senior design leaders. Focus on showcasing your most relevant luxury residential or hospitality projects, detailing your design process, technical skills, and problem-solving approach. Be ready to discuss your leadership philosophy and experience managing design teams.
• Technical & Operational Interview: This stage will likely focus on your practical skills, including proficiency in design software (SketchUp, Bluebeam, potentially Revit), understanding of construction documentation, FF&E specification, and project management workflows. Expect questions about how you manage project budgets and timelines.
• Cross-Functional and Cultural Fit Interview: You will likely meet with stakeholders from other departments (e.g., Architecture, Procurement, Sales) to assess your collaboration skills and how you would integrate with broader company operations. Questions will focus on teamwork, communication, and alignment with Blue Heron's values and design philosophy.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate your portfolio to strongly feature high-end residential or luxury hospitality projects. Quality over quantity is key – showcase your best work that aligns with Blue Heron's aesthetic.
• For each project, provide a concise case study that clearly outlines the project scope, your role, the design challenge, your process, and the final outcome. Use high-quality visuals to tell the story.
• Include examples of technical documentation (drawings, schedules, specifications) to demonstrate your precision and understanding of construction and FF&E procurement.
• Be prepared to articulate your design decisions and the rationale behind them. Highlight how your designs met client needs and exceeded expectations within the luxury context.

Challenge Preparation:

• While not explicitly mentioned, a design challenge or case study presentation is common for design leadership roles. Be prepared to discuss your approach to solving a complex design problem or managing a challenging project scenario.
• If a timed exercise is part of the process, focus on demonstrating your process, critical thinking, and ability to articulate your design rationale under pressure.
• Practice presenting a detailed case study from your portfolio, focusing on the problem, your process, and the impact of your design solutions.

ATS Keywords: Interior Design, Luxury Residential, Hospitality Design, Design Management, Team Leadership, Client Relations, Project Management, FF&E Specification, Construction Documentation, SketchUp, Bluebeam, Revit (Preferred), NCIDQ (Preferred), Design Innovation, Aesthetic Clarity, Technical Precision, Team Development, Sales Conversion, Financial Accountability, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Procurement, Installation Protocols, Space Planning, Material Selection, Lighting Design, Custom Furniture, Architecture, Design Process, Design Thinking, Creative Leadership, High-End Design, Las Vegas Design.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools:

• SketchUp: Required for 3D modeling, spatial visualization, and communicating design concepts to clients and the team. Proficiency is essential for developing detailed models of luxury spaces.
• Bluebeam: Required for reviewing, marking up, and collaborating on architectural and construction drawings. Critical for technical precision and coordinating with the build team.
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint): Required for documentation, scheduling, budgeting, and creating professional presentations for clients and internal teams.
• Revit (Preferred): Knowledge of Revit is a plus, indicating familiarity with BIM workflows which can be beneficial for integrated design and documentation, especially in complex residential projects.

Collaboration & Handoff:

• Tools for sharing design files and documentation seem implied, likely including cloud storage or project management platforms.
• Emphasis on collaboration with Architecture, Procurement, and Construction teams suggests the use of tools that facilitate seamless communication and information exchange for design handoff and execution.

Research & Testing:

• While not explicitly mentioned, tools for material sourcing, vendor management, and potentially client feedback collection would be part of the workflow.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Design Values:

• Design Innovation: A core value, driving the creation of unique and forward-thinking "desert contemporary" homes that push architectural and interior design boundaries.
• Aesthetic Clarity and Precision: High standards for the visual execution and technical accuracy of designs, ensuring the luxury quality expected by clients.
• Client-Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and exceeding client expectations, building lasting relationships through exceptional design experiences.
• Collaboration: Emphasis on working closely with internal teams (Architecture, Construction, etc.) and external partners (artisans, vendors) to deliver integrated solutions.
• Performance-Driven: A culture that values achieving project goals, meeting deadlines, and contributing to the financial success of projects.

Collaboration Style:

• Likely involves regular team meetings, design critiques, and cross-functional project reviews to ensure alignment and share insights.
• A collaborative approach with architects and construction teams is essential for integrating interior design seamlessly with the architectural vision and build process.
• Emphasis on clear communication, emotional intelligence, and professionalism in client interactions, reflecting the high-touch nature of luxury services.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Design Challenges:

• Managing multiple complex luxury residential projects concurrently, each with unique client demands and design requirements. This requires exceptional organizational and project management skills.
• Balancing creative innovation with budget constraints and project timelines while maintaining the highest standards of quality and technical precision.
• Leading and mentoring a design team with varying levels of experience, fostering their professional growth while ensuring consistent high performance.
• Navigating the complexities of FF&E procurement and installation in the luxury market, dealing with custom pieces, international vendors, and logistical challenges.
• Staying updated on the latest design trends, materials, and technologies relevant to luxury residential design to continuously offer innovative solutions to clients.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening expertise in luxury residential design through exposure to high-profile projects and unique client requirements.
• Enhancing leadership and team management skills through day-to-day team oversight, mentorship, and professional development initiatives.
• Expanding knowledge of construction methodologies, architectural detailing, and advanced FF&E sourcing and procurement processes.
• Opportunities to attend industry conferences, workshops, and trade shows focused on luxury design, materials, and technologies.

💡 Interview Preparation

Design Process Questions:

• "Walk me through your process for conducting a client discovery session in a luxury residential context. How do you uncover key lifestyle and functional priorities?" - Prepare to describe your methodology, including specific questions or techniques you use, and how you translate client needs into design concepts.
• "Describe a challenging project where you had to balance creative vision with budget constraints or technical limitations. How did you navigate this, and what was the outcome?" - Select a relevant project from your portfolio and explain your problem-solving approach, negotiation skills, and how you maintained design integrity.
• "How do you ensure technical precision and accuracy in your construction documentation and FF&E specifications for high-end projects?" - Discuss your workflow, quality control measures, and experience with relevant software like Bluebeam or Revit.

Company Culture Questions:

• "Blue Heron emphasizes 'desert contemporary design.' What does this mean to you, and how would you approach designing within this aesthetic while still bringing innovation?" - Research Blue Heron's portfolio and be prepared to discuss their style and how your design philosophy aligns or complements it.
• "How do you approach collaboration with architects, procurement, and construction teams to ensure a seamless project delivery?" - Provide examples of successful cross-functional collaboration from past projects and discuss your communication strategies.
• "Describe your leadership style and how you mentor and develop your design team members." - Reflect on your experience managing teams and be prepared to share examples of how you've supported the growth and performance of your designers.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your portfolio presentation as compelling case studies. Start with the client's needs and the project challenge, detail your design process and key decisions, and showcase the final result with high-quality visuals.
• For each project, highlight your specific contributions and how your design solutions addressed the unique requirements of a luxury client and property.
• Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your projects, including material selections, custom details, and coordination with other disciplines.
• Practice presenting your portfolio concisely and engagingly, anticipating questions about your process, decisions, and project outcomes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this design position:

• Submit your application through this link on the Paylocity recruiting portal.
• Prepare and refine your design portfolio, ensuring it prominently features your experience in high-end residential or luxury hospitality design and includes detailed case studies showcasing your process and technical skills.
• Optimize your resume to highlight relevant experience in design management, leadership, client relations, and specific technical skills mentioned in the job description, using relevant ATS keywords.
• Practice presenting your portfolio and articulating your design process and leadership philosophy in anticipation of the interview stages.
• Research Blue Heron Companies, focusing on their design aesthetic, past projects, and company culture to demonstrate your understanding and alignment during interviews.