The Senior Interior Designer translates the Principal Designer’s vision into fully resolved, executable designs—owning projects from initial direction through installation. This is a hybrid role sitting between design and execution: leading projects day-to-day, developing layouts, guiding FF&E direction, coordinating drawing sets, and managing workflow across all phases. The role involves high interaction with clients, contractors, and vendors, and requires strong coordination between the studio, consultants, and in-house or freelance team members. Ideal candidates bring a refined design sensibility, advanced project management skills, and the ability to carry concept-driven ideas through to detailed resolution across high-end residential projects.
Key Responsibilities
• Translate the Principal’s creative direction into deeply considered, fully realized design schemes
• Curate and specify materials, finishes, fixtures, and furnishings that feel cohesive and intentional
• Serve as the day-to-day design lead across multi-room and full-home projects
• Shape presentations that clearly and compellingly communicate the design vision
• Deliver complete, thoughtful, and execution-ready design packages
• Coordinate with the Studio Manager to ensure a seamless connection between design, procurement, and client experience
Ideal Candidate Profile
• 5+ years of experience in residential interior design, with a focus on multi-room or full-home projects
• Generalist sensibility—comfortable operating across space planning, millwork, finishes, lighting, and FF&E, and able to move fluidly between scales
• Strong eye for design with the ability to execute within an established aesthetic; excellent understanding of millwork and kitchen design
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver clear, cohesive design packages; experience sourcing materials, finishes, and furnishings
• Confident in technical drawings, specifications, and construction documentation; able to produce and review drawing sets
• Proficient in design software (Chief Architect preferred; Revit, SketchUp, or similar also considered)
• Collaborative, proactive, and solution-oriented; strong communication skills and a client-centered approach
• Based in the Chicago area and available to work in-office at our Forest Park studio 2–3 days per week
Kathryn Murphy Interiors (KMI) is a full-service residential design studio known for creating thoughtful, deeply considered homes throughout Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. Working primarily within the character-rich architecture of Oak Park, River Forest, and neighboring communities, the studio brings a nuanced approach to reimagining historic homes for modern living.
Led by Creative Director Kathryn Murphy, the firm approaches each project as a study in both form and function—transforming constraints into opportunities through rigorous planning, creative problem-solving, and a deeply personalized design process. From reworking challenging floor plans to integrating custom millwork, layered furnishings, and considered details, every decision is made with intention. From concept to completion, Kathryn Murphy Interiors delivers a seamless, full-service experience—guiding clients through each phase with clarity, precision, and a commitment to enduring design.
