Design Director - Architecture Los Angeles

Design Director – Lead Creative Direction at a High-Profile Design Studio (Los Angeles) Confidential Design-Led Studio A highly regarded, design-led architecture and interiors studio is seeking a Design Director to play a central role in shaping the creative direction and design culture of its Los Angeles office. This is a senior leadership opportunity for someone who thrives at the intersection of design excellence, client engagement, and studio influence, with the ability to elevate both projects and people. The Role This position is focused on leading design across projects while contributing to the broader evolution of the studio’s creative identity and market presence. You will work closely with leadership and project teams to ensure that design output is both conceptually strong and executed at a high level across all phases. You will play a key role in defining design narratives, guiding teams through early phases, and maintaining a consistent level of quality across the portfolio. Key responsibilities include Leading design direction across multiple projects, particularly during programming, concept, and schematic phases Championing design quality and shaping the overall creative culture of the studio Mentoring and developing design teams, fostering a collaborative and ambitious environment Leading and contributing to internal design reviews and critiques Playing a visible role in client engagement and presentations Supporting business development through pitches, relationships, and industry presence Contributing to studio strategy, identifying new opportunities and areas for growth The Opportunity Join a respected, design-led studio with a strong reputation across workplace and commercial interiors Take ownership of design direction within a growing and ambitious LA office Work alongside senior leadership to shape both projects and long-term studio strategy Play a key role in building reputation, winning work, and expanding market presence Opportunity to influence not just design output, but how a studio positions itself creatively and commercially The Individual This role is suited to a senior design leader who is: Highly experienced in workplace, commercial interiors, and related sectors Strong conceptually, with the ability to lead and articulate compelling design narratives Comfortable operating in a client-facing, business development-oriented environment Experienced in leading teams and guiding projects through early design phases Well-connected within the design community, with an awareness of industry trends and opportunities Collaborative, energetic, and motivated to contribute to a positive and ambitious studio culture You will likely have 15+ years of experience and be operating at Associate Director, Director, or Design Director level, looking for a role with greater influence and visibility. Why This Role This is not just a project-based position—it is an opportunity to take ownership of design direction within a studio, shaping both the creative output and the broader trajectory of the business. For the right person, it offers a platform to step into true design leadership, with influence across projects, people, and growth. #J-18808-Ljbffr