1340 Centre Street. Suite 102
Newton, MA 02459
Interior Architecture LeadAbout Arco Design + Build
Arco Design + Build is a full-service architectural design and construction firm specializing in high-end custom residential projects. We are known for delivering thoughtful, well-crafted homes through a highly collaborative process that integrates architecture, interiors, and construction under one roof.
About the RoleWe are seeking a Senior Architectural Interior Designer to lead the interior architecture and interior design of high-end residential projects from early concept through construction and closeout.
This is a senior leadership role that blends interior architectural design, technical rigor, budgeting, and team leadership. The right candidate will not only execute exceptional work, but will also build and lead an interior design team, partner closely with architecture and project management, and help grow the interior design department as a core pillar of the firm.
The ideal candidate has 8 –12+ years of experience in Interior Architecture, Interior Design, and Architecture, with a proven ability to manage budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and clients while maintaining the highest standards of design and craftsmanship.
Key Responsibilities:Interior Architecture and Design Leadership
- Lead interior architectural design including space planning, interior partitions, reflected ceiling plans, custom millwork and cabinetry, stair details, and finish assemblies.
- Collaborate closely with architects and engineers to ensure interior design intent is fully integrated with building systems and construction documentation.
- Review and conduct architectural drawings, interior elevations, sections, and details for design integrity, constructability, and code compliance.
- Develop material palettes and finish specifications that balance design intent, durability, budget, and constructability.
Project Management, Budgeting and Cost Control
- Lead projects from inception through installation, coordinating with clients, consultants, vendors, subcontractors, and internal team members.
- Manage project budgets, including FF&E procurement, orders, deliveries, and installation logistics.
- Partner with project management to develop, track, and manage interior design budgets from schematic design through project completion.
- Review and evaluate vendor quotes, subcontractor pricing, consultant proposals, and scope alignment.
- Participate in value engineering efforts while protecting design quality and intent.
- Oversee procurement strategy for interior scopes, including longlead items, approvals, and coordination of orders.
- Monitor project costs throughout the lifecycle and proactively identify budget risks, scope changes, and cost impacts.
Team Leadership and Department Growth
- Build, manage, and mentor a team of junior interior designers and interior architects.
- Establish interior design workflows, documentation standards, and best practices.
- Coordinate and manage external consultants including lighting designers, kitchen designers, and specialty fabricators.
- Support hiring, onboarding, performance development, and professional growth of interior design staff.
- Act as a senior leader in shaping the future direction and scalability of the interior design department.
Construction Phase and Field Leadership
- Conduct regular site visits during construction to review interior conditions and resolve design issues.
- Review shop drawings, samples, and mockups for interior architectural elements.
- Serve as a design authority in the field, making informed decisions in coordination with architecture and construction teams.
- Lead interior punch list walks and support final closeout.
Client and Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration- Serve as a senior, clientfacing leader guiding clients through design, cost, and construction decisions.
- Clearly communicate design intent, budget implications, and schedule impacts.
- Collaborate as a peer partner with architecture, construction, and project management teams.
Qualifications- Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or related field (required).
- 812+ years of experience with a strong focus on interior architecture and highend residential construction.
- Demonstrated experience leading teams and mentoring junior staff.
- Proven ability to manage budgets, pricing reviews, procurement, and cost control.
- Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and/or Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, with strong construction documentation skills.
- Deep knowledge of residential construction methods, detailing, materials, and sequencing.
- NCIDQ certification or relevant professional licensure preferred.
- Exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese is a plus.
- Valid driver’s license and personal transportation for local travel to project sites preferred.
CompensationThis position offers a competitive base salary commensurate with experience, plus a performance-based incentive tied to project execution, budget performance, and departmental success.
Why Join Us- Opportunity to lead and shape the interior design practice within a growing designbuild firm
- Highend custom residential work with meaningful creative and technical influence
- Collaborative environment with architecture and construction under one roof
- Competitive compensation with performance upside