Interior Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Interior Lead Designer

Company: Elmington

Location: Nashville, TN

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Interior Design & Project Management

Date Posted: 2026-04-16

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead interior design vision and execution for multifamily, hospitality, and model unit projects across a national portfolio.

• Manage all aspects of project delivery, from concept development through final installation, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

• Drive procurement strategies and vendor coordination for furniture, finishes, fixtures, and accessories, with a focus on commercial-grade durability and functionality.

• Influence internal design standards and contribute to the development of best practices in interior design for high-use environments.

• Collaborate closely with internal teams, contractors, and installation partners to ensure seamless project execution and exceptional resident/guest experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior, hands-on position requiring significant autonomy and ownership. The emphasis on "strong operator" and managing "logistical and executional details" signifies a need for proactive problem-solving and a deep understanding of the end-to-end design and build process, beyond just creative conceptualization. The company's focus on affordable housing and enhancing community fabric suggests a need for design solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and cost-effective for long-term sustainability.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the interior design strategy for multifamily, hospitality, and model unit projects, translating business objectives into cohesive design concepts.

• Develop and present comprehensive design proposals, utilizing SketchUp, Revit, and other advanced modeling software to visualize interior spaces and convey design intent.

• Lead the selection, specification, and procurement of all interior elements, including furniture, finishes, fixtures, and accessories, ensuring alignment with project budgets, brand standards, and functional requirements.

• Manage end-to-end project execution, overseeing procurement schedules, vendor relationships, and the logistical coordination of shipping, receiving, warehousing, and white-glove installation services.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with development, construction, and asset management teams to ensure design integrity is maintained throughout the project lifecycle and to establish/refine internal design standards.

• Conduct site visits and on-site installation oversight to ensure the design vision is brought to life accurately and efficiently, addressing any on-the-ground challenges.

• Source and specify commercial-grade furnishings and finishes that meet the rigorous demands of high-traffic residential and hospitality environments.

• Contribute to the development and maintenance of Elmington's internal design guidelines and specifications, fostering a consistent and high-quality brand experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "owning projects from design approval through installation" and "managing communication and coordination with contractors, vendors, and installation partners" indicates a need for strong leadership and proactive problem-solving. The expectation to "oversee white-glove deliveries, warehouse receiving, and installation teams" highlights the critical nature of logistical management and on-site execution for this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field is preferred.

Experience: 5-10 years of progressive experience in interior design, with a strong focus on project management and procurement, particularly within the multifamily, hospitality, or model unit sectors.

Required Skills:

• High proficiency in design and modeling software, including SketchUp and Revit, for creating detailed interior renderings and plans.

• Demonstrated ability to develop compelling presentation materials that effectively communicate design concepts to diverse stakeholders.

• Extensive experience in furniture selection, specification, and procurement, with a deep understanding of commercial-grade materials and sourcing channels.

• Proven track record of independently leading design projects from initial concept through final installation, managing all associated timelines and budgets.

• Strong project management capabilities, including budgeting, scheduling, logistics coordination, and vendor management.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and collaborate effectively with internal teams, external vendors, contractors, and installation partners.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience specifically with multifamily housing or hospitality interior design.

• Familiarity with developing and influencing internal design standards and specifications.

• Knowledge of construction processes and how interior design integrates with architectural plans.

• Experience with FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) specification and procurement for large-scale projects.

• Ability to analyze and interpret market trends to inform design decisions for target demographics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "high proficiency in design and modeling software, including SketchUp and Revit" strongly suggests that candidates will need to demonstrate their capabilities in these tools during the interview process. The emphasis on "proven ability to independently lead and execute design projects" implies that candidates should be prepared to discuss specific examples of projects they have managed from start to finish with minimal supervision.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 comprehensive interior design projects, with a preference for multifamily, hospitality, or model unit examples.

• For each project, clearly articulate the design brief, concept development process, and key design decisions.

• Include detailed examples of FF&E specifications, finish schedules, and material palettes.

• Present visual documentation including mood boards, 3D renderings (from SketchUp/Revit), floor plans, and installation photos.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your approach to project management, from initial client brief to final installation oversight.

• Provide examples of how you manage procurement timelines, vendor communications, and logistical coordination.

• Showcase your process for developing and presenting design concepts to stakeholders, highlighting your use of design software.

• Detail your methods for tracking project budgets and identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising design quality or functionality.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to walk through at least one project in detail, focusing on the challenges encountered in procurement and installation, and how they were overcome. The portfolio should explicitly highlight the candidate's ability to balance creative vision with practical execution and budget management, demonstrating their "operator" capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the experience level (5-10 years), location (Nashville, TN), and the scope of responsibilities, a competitive salary range for an Interior Lead Designer is estimated to be between $75,000 - $105,000 annually. This range reflects the need for a senior-level professional with strong project management and procurement expertise, capable of operating with significant autonomy.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401(k)).

• Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, including continuing education and industry certifications.

• Travel opportunities for site visits, vendor meetings, and installations (up to 20%).

• Potential for company-wide bonuses or performance-based incentives.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, typically 40 hours per week. However, given the project-driven nature of the role and potential for on-site coordination, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and installation schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on industry benchmarks for Interior Designers with 5-10 years of experience in major metropolitan areas like Nashville, TN, combined with the specialized responsibilities of project management and procurement for a national portfolio. Benefits are standard for a full-time role in this industry, with a specific mention of professional development and travel as key perks for this position.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Affordable Housing Development & Construction. Elmington is a leader in creating high-quality, affordable housing solutions across the U.S., focusing on enhancing community fabric and resident quality of life. This context implies a need for design solutions that are not only aesthetically pleasing and functional but also sustainable and cost-effective for long-term affordability.

Company Size: Elmington operates with a significant national presence, indicating a mid-to-large-sized organization with established processes and a growing portfolio. This size suggests opportunities for impact and influence within the company, alongside a structured environment for project execution.

Founded: Elmington was founded with a vision to redefine affordable housing, emphasizing quality and community impact. This foundational principle likely permeates the company culture, valuing innovation, integrity, and long-term commitment.

Team Structure:

• The Interior Design team, while potentially small, operates with high autonomy, supporting a broad national portfolio.

• This role will likely report to a Director of Design, Development, or a senior executive overseeing portfolio operations, with direct interaction with project managers, construction teams, and external partners.

Methodology:

• Data-informed design decisions, balancing aesthetic appeal with functional requirements and budget constraints.

• Emphasis on process optimization to ensure efficient project delivery, from concept to installation.

• Proactive approach to problem-solving and risk mitigation throughout the project lifecycle.

• Commitment to continuous improvement in design standards and execution methodologies.

Company Website: https://www.oneelmington.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission in affordable housing suggests that candidates should be prepared to discuss how they can deliver high-quality design within budget constraints and consider the long-term impact of their design choices on residents and communities. The "never be ordinary" slogan implies a culture that values creativity and innovation within practical operational frameworks.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, designated as an "Interior Lead Designer." It signifies a role with significant responsibility, autonomy, and the expectation of leading projects independently. The candidate is not just executing design tasks but is expected to be a key driver of the design vision and operational execution for multiple projects. This role offers a blend of creative leadership and operational management within the design and development sphere.

Reporting Structure: The Interior Lead Designer will likely report to a senior leader within the Design, Development, or Operations department. This could be a Director of Design, VP of Development, or a similar role that oversees the strategic direction and execution of Elmington's property portfolio. The direct reports, if any, would likely be junior designers or project coordinators focused on specific tasks within the larger project scope.

Operations Impact: The Interior Lead Designer has a direct and substantial impact on the company's success by shaping the residential and hospitality environments. High-quality, functional, and cost-effective interior designs enhance property value, improve resident satisfaction and retention, and contribute to the overall brand reputation and market competitiveness of Elmington's affordable housing developments. The ability to manage projects efficiently and within budget directly impacts profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Lead Design Manager: Potential to grow into a role overseeing a larger team of designers and project managers, with expanded strategic input on design standards and portfolio-wide initiatives.

• Specialization: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in a specific area, such as sustainable design, hospitality interiors, or model unit strategy, leading to specialized consulting roles or project leadership.

• Operational Excellence: Develop advanced skills in project management, procurement, and logistics, positioning for leadership roles in operations or development management within the real estate sector.

• Mentorship: As a senior member, there will be opportunities to mentor junior designers and contribute to the development of emerging talent within Elmington's design department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "high ownership and autonomy" and "creative leader and strong operator" phrasing indicates that growth potential lies in expanding leadership scope, strategic influence, and operational mastery within Elmington's development framework. Candidates should highlight their ambition to drive process improvements and contribute to the company's mission.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site in Nashville, TN, indicating a need for a physical presence in the office for collaboration, meetings, and hands-on work. This environment is likely designed to foster teamwork and efficient communication.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located in Nashville, TN. This location offers access to a vibrant city with a growing real estate and design community, providing opportunities for networking and local vendor engagement.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office environment where designers, project managers, and development teams can interact and share ideas.

• Access to necessary design software, potentially including high-performance workstations for modeling and rendering.

• A professional setting conducive to client presentations and internal design reviews.

• Opportunities for informal collaboration and brainstorming sessions with colleagues.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time (40 hours/week). While core hours will likely exist for team collaboration, the nature of project management and on-site coordination means there may be a need for flexibility to attend site visits, installations, or vendor meetings that fall outside typical office hours, especially considering the 20% travel requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and the mention of a "moderate" noise level and "moderate" temperature suggest a typical professional office setting. The emphasis on collaboration implies that candidates should be comfortable working in a team-oriented environment and actively participating in group discussions and project planning.

📄 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. Be prepared to highlight your most relevant projects and accomplishments.

• Technical Interview: Expect to discuss your proficiency with design software (SketchUp, Revit), your approach to furniture and finishes specification, and your experience with commercial-grade materials. A portfolio review will likely be central to this stage.

• Project Management & Operations Focus: Interviews will delve into your project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling, vendor coordination, and logistics management. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've managed projects from concept to completion.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit: Assess your ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and align with Elmington's mission and values. Questions may focus on how you handle challenges, work independently, and contribute to a team environment.

• Final Interview: May involve a presentation of a case study from your portfolio or a discussion about your strategic approach to design challenges.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your end-to-end design leadership, project management capabilities, and experience with multifamily, hospitality, or model units.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results (e.g., budget adherence, timeline management, positive stakeholder feedback, aesthetic success).

• Highlight Process: Showcase your workflow for concept development, software utilization (SketchUp/Revit), specification writing, procurement, and installation oversight.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality imagery, clear renderings, and concise descriptions to tell the story of each project and your role in its success.

• Address Constraints: Be prepared to discuss how you navigated budget limitations, tight timelines, or logistical challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You may be asked to present your approach to a hypothetical design challenge, focusing on how you would balance creativity, budget, and functional requirements.

• Project Walkthrough: Be ready to deep-dive into one or two key projects from your portfolio, explaining your decision-making process, challenges, and successes.

• Operational Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would manage a complex installation or resolve a vendor dispute.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should anticipate a rigorous portfolio review. It's crucial to select projects that showcase not just design aesthetics but also the candidate's ability to manage complex logistics and procurement, demonstrating their "strong operator" capabilities. Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've influenced design standards or improved project execution processes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Modeling Software: High proficiency required in SketchUp and Revit. Candidates should be comfortable using these tools for 3D modeling, space planning, and creating detailed visualizations.

• Presentation Software: Expertise in tools like Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) for creating polished presentation materials and visual communication.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management platforms such as Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or similar, for tracking tasks, timelines, and team collaboration.

• Google Workspace/Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides) or Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation, budgeting, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software (Excel/Google Sheets): Essential for budget management, cost tracking, and creating detailed FF&E specifications.

• CRM (Optional but beneficial): Experience with CRM systems used for vendor management or project tracking may be advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• Procurement Platforms: Familiarity with online sourcing platforms or vendor management systems for furniture and finishes.

• Communication Tools: Proficiency with collaborative tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams for internal team communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of SketchUp and Revit highlights these as critical technical skills. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their level of proficiency and how they leverage these tools in their design process, particularly for client presentations and detailed modeling. Familiarity with project management tools is also key, given the role's emphasis on execution and logistics.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and execution, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal in all projects.

• Integrity & Trust: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with stakeholders, vendors, and team members, fostering an environment of trust and accountability.

• Innovation & Creativity: Encouraging novel design solutions and process improvements that enhance the resident experience and operational efficiency.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing open communication and collective problem-solving to achieve shared project goals and company objectives.

• Efficiency & Accountability: A focus on streamlined processes, timely execution, and taking ownership of responsibilities to ensure successful project delivery within budget and schedule.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with development, construction, and leasing teams to ensure seamless project execution and alignment with business goals.

• Open Communication: Fostering an environment where ideas can be shared freely, and feedback is constructively given and received.

• Proactive Problem-Solving: Working collaboratively to identify potential issues early and developing effective solutions with input from relevant team members.

• Shared Ownership: Encouraging a sense of collective responsibility for project success, where all team members contribute to achieving the best possible outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Elmington's emphasis on "creating a different kind of company" and being "never ordinary" suggests a culture that values initiative and a proactive approach. Candidates should demonstrate how they embody these values by taking ownership, proposing innovative solutions, and actively contributing to a collaborative and results-oriented environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Budget and Design Excellence: Consistently delivering high-quality, aesthetically pleasing interiors within the strict budget requirements of affordable housing projects.

• Logistical Complexity: Managing the intricate logistics of procurement, warehousing, shipping, and installation across a national portfolio, often involving multiple vendors and sites.

• On-Site Execution: Ensuring accurate and timely installation of design elements, troubleshooting on-the-ground issues, and maintaining design integrity during the final build-out phase.

• Evolving Design Standards: Keeping pace with changing design trends, material innovations, and regulatory requirements while influencing and maintaining Elmington's internal design standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Gaining expertise in large-scale project lifecycles, complex procurement strategies, and sophisticated logistics management.

• Industry Best Practices: Deepening knowledge of multifamily and hospitality design trends, sustainable materials, and construction integration through workshops, conferences, and on-the-job learning.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior designers, lead cross-functional project teams, and potentially shape future design direction for Elmington's portfolio.

• Vendor & Partner Relations: Building strong relationships with a diverse network of suppliers, manufacturers, and installation crews, enhancing negotiation and partnership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a significant opportunity for professional growth by tackling complex logistical challenges and driving design excellence in a mission-driven organization. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they approach these challenges and leverage them as learning opportunities to enhance their operational and design leadership skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to deliver a high-impact interior design project under significant budget constraints. What was your approach, and what were the key outcomes?" (Focus on cost-optimization strategies and value engineering).

• "Walk me through your process for managing the procurement and installation of FF&E for a large-scale multifamily development. What are the critical checkpoints and potential pitfalls?" (Highlight your logistical planning and vendor coordination skills).

• "How do you ensure design integrity and quality control during on-site installations, especially when working with multiple contractors and vendors?" (Demonstrate your site supervision and problem-solving capabilities).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Elmington's mission to provide affordable housing, and how does that align with your design philosophy?" (Connect your passion for design with the company's purpose).

• "Describe your ideal collaborative environment. How do you work with cross-functional teams like development and construction?" (Emphasize your teamwork and communication skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Flow: Structure your portfolio presentation around clear project narratives: problem, solution, execution, and results.

• Visual Impact: Use high-quality images and renderings to showcase your design aesthetic and technical proficiency (SketchUp/Revit).

• Quantify Success: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate your impact (e.g., budget adherence, timeline efficiency, positive feedback).

• Operational Focus: Specifically highlight projects where you managed procurement, logistics, and installation, detailing your role and responsibilities.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects within a set timeframe, focusing on the most relevant aspects for this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to illustrate their "strong operator" capabilities by focusing on project execution, budget management, and logistical oversight in their answers and portfolio. Be ready to discuss how you've used SketchUp and Revit not just for aesthetics but for practical problem-solving and clear communication of design intent to non-design stakeholders.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Interior Lead Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the recruiting platform.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating end-to-end design leadership, project management, procurement, and installation oversight, with a focus on multifamily, hospitality, or model units.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience with SketchUp, Revit, project management methodologies, FF&E procurement, and vendor coordination, using keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on quantifying achievements and detailing your operational approach to design challenges. Prepare to discuss your experience with budget management and logistics.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Elmington's mission, projects, and company culture by exploring their website and any available press. Understand their commitment to affordable housing and community enhancement.

⚠️ 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.