Interior Architect / Interior Designer

Role Overview

SAWA Design Studio LLC is hiring an Interior Architect / Interior Designer for its Sarasota office. The studio works across residential, commercial, and hospitality projects, offering a broad design scope that includes interior design, lighting, architectural coordination, styling, custom furniture, and furniture sourcing. The role centers on project documentation and close coordination with the Principal throughout the project lifecycle.

What You’ll Do

• Partner with the Firm Principals and Lead Interior Designer on design direction, material and finish choices, documentation, and overall project coordination.
• Support the full design process, including concept development, schematic design, design development, and construction documentation.
• Assist with choosing and documenting furniture, fabrics, equipment, lighting, and related specifications.
• Create detailed millwork and furniture drawings that satisfy project requirements while staying aligned with the design intent.
• Develop space planning ideas and prepare program documents.
• Coordinate finished plans, specifications, and material selections needed for construction.
• Work with vendors, consultants, fabricators, and regulatory bodies to help achieve project goals.
• Take part in construction administration, including review of submittals and finish samples when needed.
• Help manage client expectations, internal communication, and consultant coordination.
• Contribute to studio initiatives, office activities, and learning programs.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in interior architecture or interior design is mandatory.
• At least 5 years of post-graduate professional experience is required.
• Strong working knowledge of Revit is essential; experience with AutoCAD, Illustrator, Photoshop, and SketchUp is also needed.
• 3ds Max would be an added advantage.
• Excellent attention to detail and a strong grasp of construction detailing are important.
• Ability to prepare permit, bid, and construction documentation with confidence.
• Solid understanding of building codes.
• Comfortable working with consultants, contractors, and clients.
• Prepared to lead projects and guide a small team.
• Experience handling large furniture and decorative packages.
• Good understanding of project sequencing.
• Proven ability to deliver projects through construction and completion, including project management experience in Florida.
• Applicants must share work samples; candidates who do not meet the minimum qualifications will not be considered.

Benefits and Compensation

The studio offers a salary package aligned with experience and skill level, along with support for continued professional growth. The workplace is described as social, collaborative, and supportive. Benefits include health insurance, paid time off, birthday leave, paid holidays, annual bonus opportunities, reimbursement for certain professional licenses, renewal and exam fees, and tuition reimbursement for eligible programs or classes.

Benefit Conditions

Some benefits may be subject to a waiting period, and certain benefits are available only to full-time employees.

Additional Information

The role is based in Sarasota, Florida. The company’s website is SAWADESIGNSTUDIO.com. The studio values a healthy work-life balance and encourages employees to maintain a balanced lifestyle. Candidates who do not meet the minimum qualifications are asked not to apply.