We are seeking a senior-level interior designer who combines exceptional design talent with strong project management skills to lead high-end residential projects from concept through final installation. This is a hybrid role that combines in-person collaboration with remote flexibility, and candidates must reside on the island of Oʻahu.
The ideal candidate is equally comfortable developing original design concepts, presenting to clients, coordinating with architects and general contractors, managing project schedules, and navigating the construction process. Procurement experience is a plus, as this role will work closely with our in-house Procurement Specialist, who manages order tracking and vendor logistics.
This position has a significant project leadership component and serves as the primary point of contact for clients, architects, contractors, and the internal design team. In this role, you will collaborate closely with the Principals to ensure every project is delivered with exceptional quality, attention to detail, and a seamless client experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead multiple luxury residential projects from concept through installation.
- Serve as the primary client contact throughout the life of the project.
- Develop and present design concepts, material palettes, furniture plans, custom millwork, and finish selections in alignment with the Principal's vision.
- Manage project schedules, milestones, budgets, and project reporting to deliver projects on time and on budget.
- Coordinate directly with architects, general contractors, engineers, specialty consultants, and local artisans.
- Partner with our Procurement Specialist to review specifications, custom fabrication shop drawings, and site-level installation schedules.
- Conduct site visits and manage construction administration, including reviewing field conditions, answering RFIs, and resolving site challenges.
- Delegate responsibilities to and mentor the Part-Time Design Assistant.
We're looking for someone who:
- Has 7-10+ years of experience leading luxury residential interior design projects from concept through white-glove installation.
- Has a strong project management mindset, is tremendously organized, and enjoys bringing structure and clarity to complex projects.
- Possesses advanced technical proficiency in AutoCAD, InDesign, Studio Designer, and Microsoft Office Suite / SharePoint.
- Can build immediate credibility with clients, architects, general contractors, and trade partners.
- Is proactive, highly organized, and a strong analytical problem-solver.
- Has a solid understanding of residential construction methods, architectural drawings, and custom furniture detailing.
- Thrives in a collaborative studio environment, is based on O’ahu, and is eager to grow with the firm.
- Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field.
- Experience implementing AI tools (such as Claude or similar platforms) into daily workflows is preferred.
- Comfortable working in a Windows (PC)-based office environment.
Tantalus is an interior design studio based in Honolulu, nestled in the verdant forest reserve for which we are named. We create engaging and grounded spaces that support the rituals of daily life, focusing on impeccable craftsmanship, natural materials, and objects that tell stories and resonate with their environment. Through a finely honed approach that pairs artfulness with a high level of organization and communication, we act as your partner in cultivating a home that resonates with your own sense of creativity and comfort. We believe that interior design can be life-enhancing, and we strive to create projects that feel livable, thought-provoking, and authentic to their owners.
Being based in Hawai’i, we are constantly inspired by the eclectic mix of cultures, aesthetics, and natural landscapes of the islands we call home. By tapping into local artisanal talent we have created a culture of makers that informs our craft-forward approach. Though our roots are in Hawai’i, we never push an aesthetic or limit ourselves geographically in our work. We bring curiosity and a collaborative spirit to each of our projects, whether it’s a vintage home on Oahu or a contemporary loft on the mainland. We invite clients into the process of creating the place where their lives will unfold, offering our design direction and deep industry expertise throughout to ensure a seamless process with exquisite results.
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