Design Lead

About the Role:

We’re partnered with a global design studio celebrated for delivering some of the world’s most iconic hospitality and residential destinations. With award-winning projects spanning luxury hotels, private residences, and high-profile F&B spaces, their work blends timeless design with innovation and craft.

Now, as they expand into Nashville with a brand-new studio, they’re seeking a Design Lead to play a foundational role. This is more than just a design leadership position, it’s an opportunity to shape the direction of a new office, guide exceptional projects, and influence the culture of a growing studio backed by international recognition.

You’ll collaborate directly with firm Principals and Studio Directors, lead high-profile projects from concept to completion, and mentor the next generation of designers. For a talented design professional with ambition, this is a career-defining move.

This isn’t just a design role, it’s your chance to be a founding voice in a new studio, delivering work that sets benchmarks in hospitality and residential design while shaping the culture of a global firm’s Nashville presence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead projects across all phases, from early concept through CA
• Deliver standout design work, from custom furniture and FF&E to full project specifications
• Drive creative solutions across space planning, finishes, and detailing
• Partner closely with clients, consultants, and internal teams to bring ideas to life
• Keep projects on track with clear communication, documentation, and technical precision
• Contribute to the setup of the Nashville studio – establishing resources, vendor networks, and a collaborative design culture

Key Skills/Experience:

• Degree in Architecture or Interior Design; LEED/NCIDQ certification a plus
• 5–10 years’ experience running projects in hospitality, residential, or F&B sectors
• Confident in space planning, FF&E, and design detailing
• Skilled in AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp or other 3D tools
• Strong communicator, highly organized, detail-oriented, and collaborative
• Entrepreneurial mindset – comfortable leading design while helping build a new studio presence

To apply for this position please click on the apply button to attach your resume (and portfolio for design positions).

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The Crowd is an equal opportunities employer and agency.