Design Associate

Company Overview

Norton Interiors is an interior design and project management studio located in Washington, DC. The firm works with both residential and commercial clients, shaping spaces that are practical, thoughtful, and visually refined. Its projects may include concept creation, space planning, full renovations, and furnishing selections. Collaboration, clear communication, and a strong eye for detail are central to how the team works from start to finish.

Role Summary

As a Design Associate, you will work closely with the Principal and Senior Designer to keep projects organized, accurate, and moving forward on time. This position is very hands-on and focused on execution, especially around ordering, data entry, and maintaining project records, budgets, and schedules. The right person will be highly organized, quick to learn, dependable, and comfortable in a fast-moving studio where accuracy and follow-through matter.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage ordering tasks and data entry by recording items, specifications, and pricing in ordering software, confirming CFA sign-offs, preparing proposals for approval, following up with vendors, and tracking status updates, ship dates, deliveries, backorders, and returns.
• Keep CRM, project management, and ordering systems updated every day so project information remains complete, consistent, and current across all platforms.
• Monitor project budgets and timelines, note changes, and keep the design and project teams informed to help protect deadlines and spending targets.
• Arrange meetings, demos, and appointments for the Principal and Senior Designer, and help coordinate calendars, logistics, and follow-up actions.
• Support sample retrieval, showroom visits, and the upkeep of a well-labeled physical sample and materials library, including ordering samples, preparing boards, and coordinating with vendors for fabric, wallpaper, finish, and lighting references.
• Assist with sourcing and pricing requests for furnishings, wallcoverings, rugs, lighting, and building materials while building familiarity with trade vendors and product resources.
• Help the design team prepare CAD and SketchUp drawings such as floor plans, furniture plans, and elevations, and contribute to presentations, renderings, and other presentation assets.
• Maintain internal libraries, directories, and company documents so files remain organized, consistent, and up to date.
• Attend site and field visits to confirm measurements, review project conditions, and gather information needed for planning and implementation.
• Support installation and coordination efforts with contractors, vendors, and installers, including walkthroughs and quality checks to ensure work meets studio standards.
• Create and schedule social media content, manage the social media calendar, and join a bi-monthly meeting to review and present insights.
• Use studio tools and software as needed, which may include SketchUp, Chief Architect, Canva, Adobe Suite, Google Suite, Google Drive, Asana, Studio Designer, Design Files, and other industry applications required for the role.

Required Qualifications

• 1 to 3 years of experience in interior design, project management, or a related area; internship or coursework experience may also be considered.
• Strong organization and attention to detail, with the ability to handle large amounts of data entry and keep multiple project records accurate.
• Comfort with learning or using ordering, CRM, and project management tools such as Studio Designer and Asana, plus Google Suite and Microsoft Office.
• Practical understanding of space planning, furniture layout, and design execution, along with a strong sense of aesthetics and detail.
• Excellent communication and people skills for working effectively with colleagues, clients, and contractors.
• Willingness to travel up to 25% of the time for sample pickup, showroom visits, site visits, and installations; a valid driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle are required.
• Ability to work in an active project environment and lift approximately 30 lbs when needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or a related discipline is preferred, though an associate’s degree, certificate, or comparable experience may also be acceptable.
• Exposure to the firm’s core tools, including Studio Designer, SketchUp, Chief Architect, Canva, Adobe Suite, and Asana.
• Knowledge of trade suppliers in furnishings, lighting, and materials.
• A proactive mindset with the ability to anticipate needs and take initiative independently.
• A fast learner with strong organization skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to stay composed in a busy environment.
• Professional, client-oriented communication style and comfort interacting with clients, vendors, and team members.
• Openness to direction and feedback from the Principal and Senior Designer.

Perks and Benefits

• Healthcare stipend, paid time off, and bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Access to industry events and markets.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $55,000 to $68,000 per year, depending on experience and the ability to handle the full scope of responsibilities.

Application Requirements

To be considered, applicants must submit all of the following materials to the provided company email address:

• Resume
• Portfolio with examples of client-facing presentations and/or renderings
• Cover letter explaining relevant experience and interest in the role

Equal Opportunity Statement

The employer is an equal opportunity organization and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. The workplace is intended to be inclusive for employees from all backgrounds.