Interior Design Consultant at Explore RH Careers

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Interior Design Consultant Company: Explore RH Careers Location: Indianapolis, Indiana, United States Job Type: Full time Category: Sales & Client Services / Interior Design Support Date Posted: August 07, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Engage with high-net-worth clientele to understand and fulfill their interior design needs, providing a luxury client experience.
Collaborate with RH Interior Design professionals to ensure seamless client project execution and exceed customer expectations.
Drive sales and achieve fiscal goals by cultivating and maintaining a strong client base through exceptional service and relationship management.
Represent the RH lifestyle brand by embodying its values, aesthetic, and commitment to quality in all client interactions and personal presentation.
Utilize a suite of digital tools, including Mac OS, Microsoft Office, and Google Applications, to manage client interactions, track progress, and support design projects effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a high-end retail and design environment, demanding a blend of sales acumen, client relationship management, and a deep understanding of interior design principles. The focus is on delivering a premium, white-glove service that aligns with RH's brand identity as a taste and place maker.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Provide a consistently luxurious and personalized experience for RH clientele by leveraging in-depth product knowledge and exceptional service standards.
Proactively assess and qualify the needs of walk-in clientele, educating them on the comprehensive services offered by RH Interior Design.
Manage the entire client lifecycle, from initial consultation and needs assessment through to product delivery and post-purchase follow-up, ensuring a seamless and positive journey.
Cultivate and nurture long-term relationships with clients, fostering loyalty and repeat business through proactive engagement and personalized attention.
Achieve and exceed individual and team fiscal targets by effectively converting client interest into sales and building a robust client portfolio.
Uphold and embody the RH brand ethos, lifestyle, and commitment to quality through professional communication, impeccable personal appearance, and refined demeanor.
Maintain a keen and active interest in the latest trends, products, and innovations within the luxury home furnishings and interior design industries.
Support the maintenance of visual merchandising standards and overall quality within the RH Gallery, contributing to an aesthetically pleasing and inspiring showroom environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive, client-centric approach with a strong emphasis on relationship building and sales performance within a luxury retail context. Success in this role hinges on the ability to manage multiple client engagements simultaneously while maintaining a high standard of personalized service.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Art, Architecture, or a related field is preferred, providing a foundational understanding of design principles and industry practices.

Experience:

2-5 years of experience in a client-facing role within a Design firm, high-end furniture retail, or luxury goods sector is highly preferred, demonstrating a track record of success in consultative sales and client management.
Proven ability to manage client relationships, understand design needs, and guide them through the selection and purchasing process.

Required Skills:

Interior Design Acumen: Strong understanding of design principles, aesthetics, and the ability to translate client needs into tangible design solutions.
Client Relationship Management: Exceptional interpersonal skills with a proven ability to build rapport, trust, and long-term relationships with a discerning clientele.
Product Expertise: Ability to quickly acquire and articulate comprehensive knowledge of RH's extensive product catalog, materials, and craftsmanship.
Luxury Service Delivery: Demonstrated commitment to providing a high-touch, personalized service experience that meets and exceeds the expectations of luxury consumers.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, with a polished and professional tone suitable for engaging with high-net-worth individuals.
Organization & Time Management: Highly organized with the capacity to manage multiple client projects, tasks, and deadlines efficiently.
Collaboration: Ability to work effectively as part of a team, partnering with other design consultants and internal departments to achieve collective goals.
Results Orientation: A driven and motivated individual with a strong focus on achieving sales targets and contributing to the overall success of the business.
Strategic Thinking: Capacity to understand client needs from a strategic perspective, anticipating future requirements and offering proactive design solutions.
Mac Operating System Proficiency: Familiarity and comfort using Mac OS, iOS devices, and related applications for daily tasks and client management.
Microsoft Office & Google Applications Proficiency: Competency in core productivity suites for communication, scheduling, and data management.

Preferred Skills:

Entrepreneurial Spirit: Proactive and self-motivated approach to identifying opportunities and driving business growth.
Visual Standards: An eye for detail and an understanding of maintaining high visual presentation standards consistent with a luxury brand.
Problem Solving: Ability to identify and resolve client issues efficiently and effectively, ensuring customer satisfaction.
Industry Interest: A genuine passion for and interest in the luxury and design industries, staying abreast of market trends and innovations.
Driving License & Travel Flexibility: Possession of a valid driver's license and willingness to travel locally or out-of-state for client consultations or company-related events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a need for individuals with a blend of design sensibility, strong sales capabilities, and exceptional client service skills. Experience in luxury retail or design environments is highly valued, as is a proactive and relationship-driven approach.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse interior design projects that demonstrate a range of styles, client needs, and successful design outcomes.
For each project, clearly articulate the client's initial brief, the design challenges encountered, the solutions implemented, and the final results achieved.
Include high-quality visual documentation such as mood boards, floor plans, 3D renderings, and professional photography of completed spaces.
Highlight the specific role played in each project, emphasizing client consultation, space planning, material selection, and project coordination.
Quantify achievements where possible, such as client satisfaction scores, project completion timelines, or budget adherence.

Process Documentation:

Demonstrate an understanding of consultative sales processes, from initial client engagement and needs assessment to proposal development and closing.
Illustrate a systematic approach to project management, including space planning, sourcing, client approvals, order placement, and delivery coordination.
Provide examples of how you track client interactions, manage project timelines, and ensure follow-up for post-delivery satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio may not be explicitly required for initial application, candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process and client management methodologies. The ability to articulate how they approach client needs, manage projects, and achieve results is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the mid-level experience requirement (2-5 years) and the luxury retail/design sector in Indianapolis, IN, the estimated annual salary range for an Interior Design Consultant is typically between $55,000 and $75,000. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, demonstrated skills, and performance in the interview process.

Benefits:

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage options for employees and their families.
401(k) Retirement Plan: With potential company match to support long-term financial planning.
Employee Discount: Significant discounts on RH products, allowing employees to experience the brand's offerings.
Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.
Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, skill enhancement, and potential advancement within the company.
Commission/Performance Bonuses: Potential for additional earnings based on sales performance and achievement of fiscal goals.

Working Hours:

This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. Specific hours will likely include weekends and potentially evenings, consistent with retail operating hours and client availability needs. Flexibility in scheduling is expected to accommodate client appointments and gallery operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in Indianapolis, factoring in the luxury segment and required experience. Benefits are standard for full-time positions in reputable retail organizations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Luxury Home Furnishings & Interior Design. RH is a curator of design, taste, and not just products, but experiences. They are a thought leader in the design space, focusing on creating aspirational living environments. Company Size: RH (Restoration Hardware) is a large, established company with a significant national and international presence. This size implies robust infrastructure, established processes, and ample resources for growth and development. Founded: RH was founded in 1979, giving it decades of experience and evolution in the home furnishings market. This history suggests a stable company with a strong brand legacy and a proven ability to adapt and innovate.

Team Structure:

The Interior Design Consultant will be part of a retail gallery team, likely reporting to a Gallery Manager or Design Director.
Collaboration is expected with fellow Design Consultants, Sales Associates, and crucially, the RH Interior Design division, which provides a higher tier of design services.
Cross-functional interaction will also occur with visual merchandising, operations, and client services teams to ensure a seamless client experience and gallery operation.

Methodology:

Data-Driven Client Engagement: Utilizing client data and preferences to personalize consultations and recommendations.
Consultative Sales Approach: Focusing on understanding client needs and providing tailored design solutions rather than just transactional sales.
Relationship-Centric Business Development: Prioritizing the cultivation of long-term client relationships for sustained revenue growth.
Brand Alignment: Ensuring all client interactions and design proposals are in sync with RH's distinct aesthetic and quality standards.

Company Website: https://careers.rh.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: RH cultivates a culture focused on taste, quality, and creating unique experiences. For an Interior Design Consultant, this means being immersed in a sophisticated environment that values design expertise and client-centric service. The company's scale offers stability and opportunities for professional growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a Mid-level, primarily focused on client interaction, sales, and providing design consultation within a retail setting. It's a client-facing role that bridges sales and design support.

Reporting Structure: Typically, an Interior Design Consultant reports to a Gallery Manager or a designated Design Lead within the gallery. They will also work closely with and receive project support from the RH Interior Design team.

Operations Impact: The Interior Design Consultant directly impacts revenue through sales generation and client retention. By providing exceptional design services and fostering strong client relationships, they contribute to RH's reputation as a leading taste-maker and drive repeat business, influencing the company's overall financial performance and brand loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

Senior Design Consultant: With proven success in client acquisition, sales, and design consultation, an individual can progress to a more senior role, potentially mentoring junior staff or taking on more complex client projects.
Interior Designer/Design Project Manager: Progression into roles within the RH Interior Design division, focusing more heavily on project management, space planning, and executing large-scale design projects.
Sales Management: Opportunities to move into management roles within the retail gallery, overseeing sales teams and driving overall gallery performance.
Specialized Design Areas: Potential to develop expertise in specific RH collections or design styles, becoming a subject matter expert within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is tied to demonstrating strong sales performance, exceptional client service, and a developing design sensibility. RH's integrated model offers pathways from client-facing retail roles into more specialized design or management positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment will be a high-end RH Gallery. These spaces are designed to be immersive, inspirational showrooms that reflect the RH brand aesthetic. They often feature curated vignettes, comfortable seating areas for client consultations, and a sophisticated retail atmosphere.

Office Location(s): The specific location is Indianapolis, Indiana. RH Galleries are typically situated in premium retail destinations or prominent lifestyle centers, offering accessibility and a sophisticated customer base.

Workspace Context:

The workspace is dynamic, involving constant interaction with clients on the gallery floor and in dedicated consultation areas.
Access to product samples, fabric swatches, and digital design tools (tablets, computers) is provided to facilitate client consultations and design presentations.
The environment is collaborative, requiring interaction with colleagues to share insights, support client needs, and maintain showroom standards.

Work Schedule: The position is full-time, requiring approximately 40 hours per week. The schedule will likely include weekends and potentially some evenings to align with typical retail operating hours and peak client traffic times. Flexibility is key to accommodate client appointments and ensure gallery coverage.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within an RH Gallery means being part of a visually rich and client-focused environment. The role requires comfort in a high-traffic, customer-facing setting where presentation and interaction are paramount.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: Typically conducted by HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth conversation with the Gallery Manager or Design Lead, focusing on experience, sales capabilities, design knowledge, and client service philosophy. This stage may involve behavioral questions.
Portfolio Review/Case Study (Potentially): Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio of their work or discuss specific past projects, showcasing their design process, client interaction, and problem-solving skills. This could also involve a scenario-based discussion or a mock client consultation.
Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or a panel to confirm the candidate's suitability for the role and the company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in interior design, client consultation, and project execution.
Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's needs, your design approach, the challenges you overcame, and the successful outcome. Focus on the "why" behind your design decisions.
Showcase Process: Include visuals that illustrate your design process, such as mood boards, floor plans, material selections, and 3D renderings, alongside final photography.
Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics related to client satisfaction, project budget adherence, or sales generated from your design work.
Tailor to RH: Emphasize projects that align with RH's aesthetic and luxury positioning, demonstrating an understanding of their brand and target clientele.

Challenge Preparation:

Client Consultation Simulation: Be prepared to role-play a client consultation, demonstrating how you would engage a new client, understand their needs, and present solutions.
Design Problem-Solving: Practice discussing how you would approach common design challenges, such as working with limited space, specific client budgets, or unique aesthetic preferences.
Sales & Relationship Management Scenarios: Think about how you would handle client objections, build rapport, and encourage repeat business.
Brand Alignment: Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for RH's brand and culture, referencing their values and aesthetic.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only design expertise but also strong sales aptitude and a client-centric approach. The ability to articulate one's process and the value brought to clients is key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

Mac Operating System (macOS): Essential for daily operations, client management, and potentially design software.
iOS Devices (iPhone/iPad): Used for client presentations, communication, and accessing company applications on the go.
Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word (document creation), Excel (basic data tracking), and Outlook (email and calendar management) is expected.
Google Applications: Familiarity with Google Workspace tools like Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Drive for collaboration and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

While not a primary analytics role, basic understanding of sales metrics and client data reporting may be beneficial for tracking personal performance and client base growth.

CRM & Automation:

RH likely utilizes a CRM system for managing client interactions, sales pipelines, and customer data. Familiarity with CRM principles and data entry accuracy is important.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is standard for a client-facing role in a modern, design-focused company. Emphasis is placed on proficiency with Apple devices and core productivity software, alongside an understanding of CRM principles for client management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Taste & Design Excellence: A commitment to sophisticated design, quality craftsmanship, and an elevated aesthetic in all aspects of work.
Client-Centricity: Prioritizing client needs, delivering exceptional service, and building lasting relationships through personalized engagement.
Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest standards of conduct, communication, and personal presentation that reflect the RH brand.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues, cross-functional teams, and the Interior Design division to achieve shared goals and provide a seamless client experience.
Innovation & Vision: Embracing RH's forward-thinking approach to design and retail, contributing to the company's position as a taste-maker.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional Integration: Actively partnering with sales, design, and operations teams to ensure client satisfaction and smooth project execution.
Open Communication: Maintaining clear and consistent communication with clients and internal stakeholders, providing updates and addressing inquiries promptly.
Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a team environment where design insights, product knowledge, and best practices are shared to elevate collective performance.
Feedback Exchange: Being receptive to feedback from clients and colleagues, using it as an opportunity for continuous improvement in design and service delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: RH's culture is deeply rooted in design, quality, and a sophisticated client experience. Team members are expected to embody these values, fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes client satisfaction and brand integrity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Managing High Client Expectations: Working with a discerning clientele who expect premium service, high-quality products, and personalized attention.
Balancing Sales Targets with Design Consultation: Effectively merging the demands of sales performance with the nuanced requirements of providing thoughtful design advice.
Navigating a Large Product Catalog: Developing comprehensive knowledge of RH's extensive and evolving product offerings to effectively assist clients.
Adapting to a Dynamic Retail Environment: Thriving in a fast-paced gallery setting that requires constant client engagement and responsiveness to market trends.
Client Project Delays or Issues: Proactively managing and resolving any potential issues that may arise during the client order and delivery process.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Product and Design Training: Continuous learning opportunities provided by RH on new collections, materials, design trends, and selling techniques.
Sales and Client Service Workshops: Access to training programs focused on enhancing consultative selling skills, negotiation, and customer relationship management.
Mentorship Programs: Potential to learn from experienced Design Consultants and leaders within the RH network, gaining insights into career progression.
Exposure to High-Profile Projects: Opportunities to work with clients on significant design projects, building a strong portfolio and valuable experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities for growth in both sales and design expertise within a luxury brand. Challenges are primarily related to managing client expectations and performance demands, which can be mitigated through continuous learning and development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

"Describe your approach to understanding a new client's design needs and preferences. How do you ensure you capture their vision accurately?" (Prepare to discuss active listening, probing questions, and mood board creation.)
"How do you balance achieving sales targets with providing genuine design consultation and ensuring client satisfaction?" (Focus on consultative selling and building long-term relationships.)
"Walk me through a challenging interior design project you managed. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Prepare a specific case study highlighting problem-solving and client management.)
"How would you handle a situation where a client loves a particular design but it doesn't quite fit their functional needs or budget?" (Demonstrate problem-solving, offering alternatives, and managing expectations.)

Company & Culture Questions:

"Why are you interested in RH, and what specifically about our brand and design aesthetic resonates with you?" (Research RH's brand story, values, and recent collections.)
"How do you stay current with interior design trends and the luxury market?" (Mention industry publications, blogs, social media, and attending events.)
"Describe your ideal work environment and how you contribute to a positive team dynamic." (Align your response with RH's collaborative and design-focused culture.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Start with a Strong Opening: Briefly introduce yourself and the projects you'll be showcasing.
Context is Key: For each project, provide the client's brief, scope of work, and your overall design concept.
Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your contributions, from initial client interaction to final execution.
Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images and graphics to illustrate your design process and the final outcome. Explain the rationale behind your material selections and layout choices.
Focus on Results: Discuss how your design solutions met the client's needs, improved their space, and led to positive outcomes (e.g., client satisfaction, successful sales).
Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, client management, and problem-solving approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing a blend of design passion, sales acumen, and client service excellence. Demonstrating an understanding of the RH brand and a proactive approach to client engagement will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Interior Design Consultant position:

Submit your application through the provided link on the RH Careers portal (https://careers.rh.com/#).
Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight relevant experience in interior design, luxury retail sales, client relationship management, and proficiency with the mentioned technologies (Mac OS, Microsoft Office, Google Apps). Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., sales growth, client retention rates).
Prepare Your Portfolio (or talking points): If a portfolio is requested or you anticipate a discussion of past work, ensure you have 3-5 strong projects ready to discuss, focusing on client needs, your design process, and successful outcomes. Be ready to articulate your design philosophy and how it aligns with RH.
Research RH: Thoroughly familiarize yourself with RH's brand identity, design aesthetic, current collections, and company values. Understand their position as a taste-maker in the industry.
Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions related to sales, client service, design consultation, and problem-solving, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) where appropriate.

⚠️ 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.

Interior Design Consultant