Interior Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Interior Design Director

Company: B+H Architects (CHIL Studio)

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Interior Design (Hospitality & Residential)

Date Posted: April 20, 2026

Experience Level: Senior (10+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end interior design process for high-caliber hospitality and multi-family residential projects, ensuring creative vision translates into functional and aesthetically superior spaces.

• Drive technical design delivery and documentation from concept through construction, adhering to Canadian building codes, accessibility standards, and project-specific requirements.

• Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships, acting as a primary point of contact and presenting design solutions with confidence and expertise.

• Mentor and develop intermediate and junior interior designers, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes knowledge sharing and design excellence.

• Contribute to the studio's business development efforts, including proposal writing and client interviews, to support growth and expand the project portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an "Interior Design Director" but the core responsibilities and experience level lean towards a Senior Interior Designer with significant leadership and client-facing duties within a specialized studio environment (CHIL, part of B+H Architects/SJ Group). The "Director" title may reflect a leadership band within the studio rather than a formal executive director role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead concept development, narrative creation, space planning, material selection, and FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) direction for luxury hospitality and multi-family residential interiors.

• Produce and meticulously oversee the creation of comprehensive interior design deliverables across all project phases: concept, schematic design, design development, tender, and construction documentation.

• Ensure seamless integration and coordination with architectural, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), lighting, and sustainability consultants to achieve a unified and cohesive project outcome.

• Conduct thorough reviews and provide approval for detailed interior drawings, custom millwork/joinery packages, comprehensive finish schedules, and technical specifications.

• Execute site visits, perform detailed reviews of shop drawings, and provide support for contract administration to rigorously maintain design integrity throughout the construction phase.

• Proactively manage project timelines, control workflow, and ensure the timely delivery of all design-related tasks, meeting or exceeding client and studio expectations.

• Serve as the primary client liaison, nurturing and maintaining robust, trust-based relationships throughout the entire design and delivery lifecycle.

• Confidently and professionally present design concepts, progress updates, and final proposals to clients, external consultants, and internal senior stakeholders.

• Support business development initiatives by contributing to proposal writing, participating in client interviews, and identifying new project opportunities.

• Mentor and provide constructive feedback to intermediate and junior interior designers, guiding their technical output and fostering their professional growth.

• Champion a collaborative studio culture, encouraging knowledge exchange and the adoption of best practices among the interior design team.

• Ensure all interior design work strictly adheres to Canadian building codes, fire and life safety regulations, and provincial accessibility standards (e.g., AODA - Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, and relevant provincial codes).

• Promote and integrate sustainable design strategies, responsible material sourcing, and wellness-focused design principles into project solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the original description lists "Key Responsibilities," these have been expanded and categorized for clarity, aligning with typical Senior Interior Designer roles that involve leadership, technical expertise, and client management within architectural and design firms. The emphasis on Canadian context (codes, standards) is crucial.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Design Software Proficiency: Expert-level command of Revit and AutoCAD for architectural and interior design documentation.

• Creative Suite Expertise: Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for presentation materials and visual storytelling.

• 3D Visualization: Strong skills in 3D modeling and rendering software such as SketchUp, Enscape, Rhino, or similar tools for concept visualization.

• Canadian Building Codes & Standards: Comprehensive understanding of Canadian building codes, fire and life safety regulations, and provincial accessibility standards (e.g., AODA).

• Construction Documentation: Proven ability to produce detailed design documentation, FF&E packages, and construction drawings that meet Canadian industry standards.

• Client Communication: Exceptional client-facing and interpersonal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to build rapport and manage expectations effectively.

• Team Collaboration: Proven track record of working effectively within multidisciplinary teams, including architects, engineers, and specialist consultants.

• Project Delivery: Experience managing interior design deliverables through all project phases, from initial concept to final construction administration.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specialized hospitality interior design software or FF&E specification platforms.

• Familiarity with sustainable design certifications and methodologies (e.g., LEED, WELL Building Standard).

• Business development and proposal writing experience within the architecture and design industry.

• Knowledge of local Vancouver building bylaws and permitting processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The input listed "Qualifications" as a single bulleted list. This has been structured into Education, Experience, Required Skills, and Preferred Skills to provide a clearer hierarchy and emphasize critical competencies for this senior role. The specific software requirements are key differentiators.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 comprehensive hospitality and/or multi-family residential projects that demonstrate leadership from concept development through to construction completion.

• Highlight projects that exhibit a strong understanding of luxury design principles, material innovation, and user experience within the Canadian context.

• Include examples of detailed technical documentation (drawings, specifications) that illustrate proficiency in translating design intent into buildable solutions.

• Present clear evidence of client engagement, including presentation materials and how feedback was incorporated into the design process.

Process Documentation:

• Prepare case studies that detail your approach to concept development, including research, mood boards, and narrative articulation.

• Document your workflow for producing full construction documentation packages, emphasizing coordination with other disciplines.

• Illustrate your process for selecting and specifying FF&E, including budget management and procurement strategies.

• Provide examples of how you ensure compliance with Canadian building codes and accessibility standards throughout the design and documentation phases.

• Showcase your methods for site review, shop drawing approval, and contract administration support.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated in the raw input, a portfolio demonstrating process and technical proficiency is standard for senior design roles. This section infers typical requirements for such a role, focusing on the comprehensive nature of design delivery and adherence to industry standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Extended Health and Dental Care benefits package.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) including vacation days, personal days, and statutory holidays.

• Professional Development opportunities, including support for continuing education, certifications, and industry conferences.

• Contribution to a Retirement Savings Plan or Pension scheme.

• Opportunities for career advancement within a global organization (SJ Group).

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit sharing.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. While the role is on-site, the company may offer some flexibility for project-driven needs or occasional remote work, subject to team and project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary information was not provided in the raw input. This estimate is based on research of similar Senior Interior Designer roles in Vancouver, Canada, considering the experience level, specialization, and company prestige. Benefits are inferred based on standard offerings for professional roles in Canadian architecture and design firms.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Interior Design, Urban Planning, and Consultancy. B+H Architects, through CHIL, operates within the luxury hospitality and high-end multi-family residential design sectors. As part of the Surbana Jurong (SJ) Group, it engages with a broader spectrum of built environment services, emphasizing smart and sustainable future solutions.

Company Size: B+H Architects itself is a significant player, and as part of the SJ Group, it belongs to a global entity with over 16,000 employees across more than 120 offices in over 40 countries. CHIL operates as a boutique studio within this larger structure.

Founded: SJ Group has over 70 years of track record. B+H Architects was founded in 1958. CHIL's specific founding date isn't provided but operates as an established studio. This longevity suggests a stable, experienced, and reputable organization.

Team Structure:

• The Interior Design team at CHIL is likely structured with a Director/Lead, Senior Designers, Intermediate Designers, and Junior Designers, working collaboratively on projects.

• Reporting is likely hierarchical, with Senior Designers reporting to a Director or Principal and mentoring junior staff.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Leveraging market research, client briefs, and user behaviour data to inform design decisions, particularly in hospitality and residential sectors.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Implementing structured design processes from concept to construction, focusing on efficiency, coordination, and quality control.

• Automation & Efficiency: Utilizing advanced design software and potentially exploring automation tools to streamline documentation and visualization processes.

Company Website: www.surbanajurong.com (for SJ Group), bharchitects.com (for B+H Architects), and chil.design (for CHIL Studio).

📝 Enhancement Note: Information about company culture, team structure, and methodology has been synthesized from the provided company description and general knowledge of large architectural/design firms and their studio models. The emphasis is on the blend of boutique specialization with global corporate backing.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the interior design discipline. It signifies a transition from individual contribution to leadership, encompassing design direction, project oversight, client relationship management, and mentorship. The "Director" title suggests a position of significant influence and responsibility within the CHIL studio.

Reporting Structure: The Interior Design Director will likely report to a Principal, Partner, or Head of Design within the CHIL studio or B+H Architects. They will, in turn, manage and mentor Intermediate and Junior Interior Designers. Collaboration with architectural leads and project managers from the broader SJ Group is also expected.

Operations Impact: The Interior Design Director's impact extends beyond aesthetic creation. They are instrumental in shaping client satisfaction, driving project profitability through efficient design delivery, upholding brand reputation through quality execution, and contributing to the studio's overall business growth and talent development. Their work directly influences the user experience of spaces for global brands and residential occupants.

Growth Opportunities:

• Design Leadership: Progression to Principal Designer, Head of Studio, or a more senior leadership role within B+H Architects or SJ Group, potentially overseeing larger portfolios or multiple studios.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in a niche area of hospitality (e.g., luxury hotels, F&B concepts) or residential design, becoming a recognized thought leader.

• Business Development: Taking on a more prominent role in client acquisition, proposal strategy, and strategic partnerships.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects or transfer to other SJ Group offices worldwide.

• Mentorship & Training: Developing internal training programs and establishing design best practices for the broader organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section interprets the "Director" title and responsibilities within the context of a design firm's career progression, focusing on leadership, client impact, and advancement pathways.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a physical office environment, specifically within the CHIL studio located in Vancouver. Given the company's global presence and boutique studio model, the office is likely designed to foster creativity and collaboration, reflecting high-end interior design principles.

Office Location(s): Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This location offers a vibrant design scene and access to a strong market for hospitality and multi-family residential projects.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace is expected to encourage interaction among designers, architects, and consultants, facilitating brainstorming sessions and cross-disciplinary problem-solving.

• Tools & Technology: Access to high-performance workstations equipped with industry-standard design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, 3D visualization tools) and potentially large-format displays for presentations and reviews.

• Team Interaction: Ample opportunities for daily interaction with colleagues, participation in design critiques, team meetings, and informal knowledge sharing. The environment likely supports mentorship and peer learning.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week (Monday-Friday) is typical, with the understanding that project deadlines may occasionally require overtime. The on-site nature suggests a structured workday, but the company's global operations might necessitate some flexibility in communication across time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers the nature of the work environment based on the company's industry, studio model, and location, focusing on the practical aspects for a designer and the collaborative elements crucial for design firms.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation & Interview (Round 1): A presentation of your selected design projects (typically 3-5 case studies) to a panel, likely including senior design staff and HR. This stage assesses your design thinking, technical execution, project management approach, and communication skills. Be prepared to discuss your role, challenges, and outcomes for each project.

• Technical & Cultural Interview (Round 2): Deeper dive into technical proficiency, understanding of Canadian codes, and problem-solving capabilities. This may involve scenario-based questions or a brief design challenge. Assessment of cultural fit with the CHIL studio and B+H Architects/SJ Group values.

• Final Interview: Meeting with senior leadership (e.g., Principal, Head of Design) to discuss strategic fit, leadership potential, and overall alignment with the company's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your expertise in hospitality and multi-family residential design, emphasizing luxury, detail, and technical execution.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and leadership role in each project, especially in concept development, client interaction, and team guidance.

• Highlight Process: Go beyond final renderings; show your design process, including concept development, space planning evolution, material boards, and technical documentation excerpts.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, discuss the impact of your design decisions on client satisfaction, project delivery, or user experience. For example, how your space planning improved guest flow or how material choices met budget and aesthetic goals.

• Canadian Context: Ensure your portfolio reflects an understanding of Canadian building codes, accessibility standards, and local market nuances where applicable.

• Presentation Clarity: Use high-quality visuals, concise descriptions, and a logical flow. Be prepared to walk through your portfolio verbally with confidence and enthusiasm.

Challenge Preparation:

• Code Compliance Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would address specific code compliance issues or accessibility requirements in a design context.

• Design Problem-Solving: Prepare for questions that ask how you would approach a design challenge with conflicting client demands, tight budgets, or complex site constraints.

• Stakeholder Management: Practice articulating how you would manage difficult client conversations or resolve design disagreements within a multidisciplinary team.

• Sustainability Integration: Be prepared to discuss how you integrate sustainable design principles and wellness strategies into your projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides a structured approach to the interview and portfolio review process, common for senior design roles in architectural firms. It emphasizes practical preparation based on the role's responsibilities and typical industry practices.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Core BIM (Building Information Modeling) software for comprehensive design and documentation. Expect proficiency in creating and managing complex models, detailing, and generating construction documents.

• AutoCAD: Essential for 2D drafting, detailing, and coordination, often used in conjunction with Revit.

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign): Critical for creating high-impact client presentations, mood boards, graphic layouts, and visual storytelling.

• 3D Visualization Software (SketchUp, Enscape, Rhino, 3ds Max, V-Ray): Necessary for generating realistic renderings and immersive visualizations to communicate design intent effectively to clients and stakeholders.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Procore, or internal SJ Group systems): Used for task management, workflow tracking, team collaboration, and deadline management.

• FF&E Specification Software (e.g., SpecLink, e-SPECS, or similar): Tools used for detailed specification of furniture, fixtures, and equipment, ensuring accuracy and consistency.

• Document Management Systems: For organizing and accessing project files, drawings, and specifications efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the expected software proficiency for a senior interior designer, focusing on the tools critical for design, visualization, documentation, and project management in an architectural context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A commitment to creating beautiful, functional, and innovative spaces that exceed client expectations and set industry standards.

• Collaboration: Fostering a supportive and communicative environment where teamwork, knowledge sharing, and mutual respect are paramount.

• Client Focus: Building strong, trust-based relationships with clients, understanding their vision, and delivering exceptional service and outcomes.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings, from design execution to client interactions.

• Innovation & Sustainability: Embracing new ideas, technologies, and sustainable practices to create future-ready and responsible designs.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teamwork: CHIL likely emphasizes a highly collaborative approach where interior designers work seamlessly with architects, engineers, and other specialists from project inception.

• Open Communication: Encouraging regular feedback, design critiques, and open dialogue to refine concepts and resolve challenges collectively.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where team members share expertise, best practices, and lessons learned through informal discussions, presentations, and mentorship.

📝 Enhancement Note: Values and collaboration styles are inferred from the company's positioning as a luxury design studio within a global conglomerate, emphasizing quality, client relationships, and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Technical Constraints: Harmonizing ambitious design concepts with practical considerations like building codes, budgets, and structural limitations.

• Managing Diverse Client Expectations: Navigating the needs and preferences of various stakeholders, from global luxury brands to individual residents, ensuring satisfaction across the board.

• Adhering to Canadian Regulatory Frameworks: Staying current with and meticulously applying complex building codes, fire safety regulations, and accessibility standards specific to Canada.

• Coordinating Complex Projects: Ensuring seamless integration of interior design with architectural, MEP, and other consultant disciplines on large-scale projects.

• Maintaining Brand Standards: Upholding the high-end aesthetic and operational requirements for global hospitality brands while adapting to local contexts.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Access to training and workshops on cutting-edge design software, visualization tools, and emerging design trends.

• Industry Certifications: Support for pursuing relevant certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or WELL Building Standard.

• Global Exposure: Opportunities to learn from and collaborate with diverse teams across SJ Group's international offices, gaining exposure to global design markets and practices.

• Leadership Development: Training programs focused on project management, client relations, team leadership, and business development.

• Mentorship Programs: Formal or informal mentorship opportunities with senior leaders within B+H Architects and SJ Group.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are framed around the specific demands of a senior interior design role in a global firm, focusing on technical, creative, and leadership aspects.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for leading a hospitality interior design project from initial client brief to final construction handover." (Focus on your leadership, project management, and technical execution methodology).

• "How do you ensure design integrity and client satisfaction when working with multiple stakeholders and consultants on complex projects?" (Highlight your communication, negotiation, and collaborative problem-solving skills).

• "Walk us through a challenging situation where you had to balance a demanding creative vision with strict budget or code constraints. How did you resolve it?" (Prepare a specific STAR method example demonstrating problem-solving and resilience).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to CHIL's portfolio and B+H Architects' global reputation?" (Research their recent projects and values; connect your aspirations to their work).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and innovative environment within a design team, especially when mentoring junior designers?" (Discuss your leadership style and team-building approach).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Flow: Structure your presentation logically, guiding the interviewer through the story of each project—the challenge, your solution, and the outcome.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your responsibilities and contributions within each project, especially if it was a team effort. Use "I" statements for your direct actions and "we" for team achievements.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss specific design decisions, material choices, construction details, and how you addressed code compliance.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images and clear graphics. Ensure your slides are uncluttered and support your verbal narrative, not repeat it verbatim.

• Conciseness: Aim for approximately 5-7 minutes per project to allow ample time for Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: These interview questions and preparation tips are tailored to a senior interior design role, focusing on leadership, technical expertise, client management, and the specific context of hospitality and residential design within a global firm.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Interior Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link on the Surbana Jurong careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate a digital portfolio (PDF or website) that prominently features 3-5 of your strongest hospitality and multi-family residential projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your leadership, technical proficiency, and understanding of Canadian design standards. Highlight your role in concept development, client engagement, and construction documentation.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 10+ years of experience, specific software proficiencies (Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, 3D tools), and successful project delivery in relevant sectors. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Led design for projects totaling X million in value").

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design philosophy, project experiences, and leadership approach. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method for behavioral questions and be ready to present your portfolio confidently. Research B+H Architects, CHIL Studio, and SJ Group's recent work and values.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with SJ Group's global reach, B+H Architects' portfolio, and CHIL's specialization in luxury hospitality and residential design. Understand their commitment to sustainability and smart solutions.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with B+H Architects/CHIL Studio during the application and interview process.