A critically acclaimed, design-led architecture studio is seeking an Interior Design Lead to take a central role on a high-profile ultra-luxury residential project in the Middle East. You will be joining a studio recognised for delivering refined, conceptually driven architecture and interiors across cultural and international projects, with a strong emphasis on materiality, craft, and spatial quality. This role will sit at the heart of a key project, leading the in-house interiors team while working closely with architectural leadership to ensure a cohesive and consistent design approach throughout. You will be acting as the design guardian for the interiors scope — balancing client expectations with the studio’s design intent, while navigating the realities of delivery within a fast-paced, high-end international context.
Job Description
You will lead the interiors package on a major residential scheme, taking ownership of both design direction and delivery, while remaining hands-on within a small, focused team.
You will be:
- Leading the in-house interior design team (c.2–3 people), overseeing both concept development and detailed delivery.
- Acting as a design guardian, ensuring consistency of vision across all stages, from concept through to execution.
- Reviewing and approving mock-ups, material samples, and bespoke elements, maintaining quality and design integrity.
- Coordinating closely with the architecture team, ensuring alignment between interior and architectural intent.
- Managing communication with clients, consultants, and stakeholders, balancing expectations and resolving design challenges.
- Contributing to material sourcing, FF&E direction, and bespoke design elements, particularly within a Middle Eastern context.
- Supporting delivery across all project stages, ensuring deadlines are met within a fast-paced programme.
- Mentoring junior team members and maintaining a collaborative, focused team environment.
Key Skills
- Proven experience leading interiors on ultra-luxury residential projects, ideally within the UAE or wider Middle East.
- Strong understanding of local UAE regulations, processes, and project delivery frameworks.
- Experience acting as a design guardian, with confidence reviewing mock-ups, samples, and detailed design outputs.
- Ability to confidently manage client relationships and navigate high expectations.
- Strong experience coordinating with architectural and consultant teams across complex projects.
- Excellent presentation and communication skills.
- Comfortable working across all RIBA stages, from concept to delivery.
- Experience sourcing materials, FF&E, and bespoke elements within the Middle East (desirable).
- Existing network of regional suppliers and consultants advantageous.
- Strong organisational skills, able to deliver under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
- Fluent written and spoken English.
This role would suit an Interior Architect or Interior Designer who is confident leading from the front, someone who can take ownership of a high-profile project, maintain design integrity, and operate comfortably within the demands of ultra-luxury international work