At a Glance
- Tasks: Create emotive spaces that enhance human connection and reflect client brands.
- Company: Join Customs Bureau, part of the innovative 7C Network, reshaping hospitality design.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment with private healthcare, bonuses, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with remote work options and access to training and social events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in luxury hospitality design while mentoring the next generation of designers.
- Qualifications: 6+ years in interior design, proficiency in design software, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
About Customs Bureau
Customs Bureau (part of the wider 7C Network) creates spaces that have an emphasis on human connection; they are emotive, atmospheric and are deeply seeded in the clients’ brand and location. The studio‘s holistic design approach results in unparalleled services ranging from supporting early-stage sustainability initiatives to harnessing its in-house specialists in textiles, industrial and product design, exclusive to Customs Bureau. Each project is conceptually driven and makes a statement with an emphasis on the end-to-end consumer journey.
From our headquarters in London, to our design studios in New York and Sydney, Customs Bureau seeks to actively reshape the hospitality experience by understanding the future of travel and leisure. In every instance, Shida and her team approach the guest experience with a philosophy of curation and care, tapping into the emotional sensibilities, paying close attention to the sensorial qualities of the space; each detail from spatial to texture is a microcosm of the location and the customs they imbue.
Customs Bureau is part of the 7C network. The 7C network is an integrated network of design and architecture companies that provides "Total Place Design," a holistic approach to creating transformative environments. It combines capabilities from its constituent brands - including Woods Bagot, ERA-co, Impact Futures, and Customs Bureau - to offer services in placemaking, sustainability, architecture and interior design, and luxury concepts.
About the Role
Customs Bureau is seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Interior Designer to join our studio as a key member of our team. The ideal candidate will have a refined eye for luxury hospitality environments, and proficiency in all facets of interior design. With a proven track record of executing all phases of the production of a project, and the coordination of client and operator requests.
As part of a small but rapidly growing team it is essential that you are proactive and comfortable working autonomously, and have the ability to mentor Graduate and Interior designers.
Key Responsibilities
- Concept: Responsible for the development of concept design through planning, sketching, rendering. Responsible for the selection of directional images, and finishes, reviewing with the Project Leader and Founder/Partner.
- Schematic: Acquire and coordinate samples from vendors, plus the formulation of furniture boards. Further develop concept design with sketches, thumbnails, plans and the creation of specialty finishes, and refine finish selections.
- Design Development: Flush out and refine the approved design language into buildable drawings. Review and implement design specifications with the Spec department, re: FF&E, hardware, plumbing, and architectural finishes. Assist in any information the Spec department may require. Coordinate with outside project consultants such as lighting, MEP, Structural, Signage, kitchen consultants etc, as necessary to complete a well-coordinated project.
- Construction Documentation: Work with Project Management in the development of specialty custom built items. Develop a complete drawing package, including detailing, elevations, and plans as per Customs Bureau standards. Compilation and finalisation of all FF&E pieces with sufficient information to pass through to the Specification Department. Develop drawing package including full design intent of all millwork and custom furniture as per Customs Bureau standards. Continue coordination with outside project consultants such as lighting, MEP, Structural, Signage, kitchen consultants etc, as necessary to complete a well-coordinated project. Review and implement necessary changes and additions with the Spec department, re: FF&E, hardware, plumbing, and architectural finishes.
- Construction Administration: Provide sufficient information when requested by the Project Management team in the development of budgets. Answer vendor/contractor’s questions, review Shop Drawings and Submittals, and provide site clarifications when necessary.
- Mentoring Entry level designers: Share and pass on design knowledge to Graduate and Interior Designers. Assist in the review of project documentation for quality of design, technical competency, and completeness of information.
Consults with: Project Leader, Partner, Founder and supporting staff.
Required Qualifications and Experience:
- A bachelor’s degree (or international equivalent) in a related field of Design - Interior design, Architecture, etc.
- 6+ years of post-graduate work experience necessary.
- Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Sketchup, Adobe Creative Suite, b+w hand rendering skills are necessary for the position.
- Additional 3D software skills are an asset.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
What's on Offer:
- Fast-paced, demanding, yet fun working environment with a young team.
- Collaborative and entrepreneurial culture encouraging contribution from all team members.
- Opportunities for career growth and skill development in design business and management.
- Access to resources, CPD, training programs, and social events within the Woods Bagot Architecture firm.
- Foster onsite collaborative working and remote working options.
- Private healthcare and dental cover.
- Annual discretionary bonus.
- Company pension scheme.
How to Apply:
Please send your resume with a link to your portfolio via this LinkedIn job post. Applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We do not accept unsolicited resumes or names from agencies.
Mandatory requirement: It is an essential requirement that at the time of applying for this position applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom. Due to the high volume of applications, we kindly ask that you refrain from following up on your CV submission, as this may slow down the process. We truly appreciate your interest in joining Customs Bureau, and should your application progress, we will be in touch directly. Thank you for your understanding.
7C - Total Place Design Network
Customs Bureau is part of the 7C Total Place Design Network: A wholly owned network of leading place brands including Woods Bagot, ERA-co, Impact Futures, and Customs Bureau.
7C is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, and Veteran status. At 7C, we are committed to creating an environment where difference is celebrated, valued and respected, practices are equitable, and our people feel like they belong. We accept that none of us is smarter than all of us. We believe building a diverse workforce is the foundation to creativity and innovative design – it is only by working together that we can realise the potential of our people, clients and communities around us. Through our inclusive leadership and our truly global studio network, you will find your voice and have the support and flexibility required to bring your whole self to work and build an exceptional career.
Senior Designer in London employer: Customs Bureau
Customs Bureau is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, where creativity thrives in the heart of London. With a strong emphasis on professional growth, employees are encouraged to develop their skills through mentorship and hands-on experience in luxury hospitality design. The unique opportunity to work within a dynamic team dedicated to reshaping the hospitality experience ensures that every project is not only meaningful but also deeply connected to the local context and client vision.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Designer in London
✨Get Your Portfolio Game On Point
As an aspiring architect, your portfolio is your golden ticket. Make sure it's not just a collection of your best work, but tells a story about your design process and creative thought. Showcase a range of projects, from conceptual sketches to final renderings—think of it as a visual CV!
✨Slide into Networking Events
Architecture thrives on community connections, so keep an eye out for local architecture meetups, exhibitions, and lectures. These events are gold for meeting industry professionals, and who knows? You might just bump into someone from Customs Bureau who can give you the insider scoop on their hiring process!
✨Learn the Software Inside Out
Make sure you're up to speed with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Being able to discuss your proficiency during interviews can really set you apart. Plus, if you can mention particular projects where you’ve used them, you’ll demonstrate both skill and practical experience.
✨Refine Your Interview Skills
Interviews for architecture roles can get quite technical, so practice answering questions about your design process and decision-making strategies. Prepare for potential design challenges they might put forward in interviews—show them you can think on your feet and come up with innovative solutions!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Designer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Architecture is all about creativity and technical skills, so make sure your portfolio is front and centre! Include a range of your best projects, showcasing different styles and techniques. Don't forget to explain your design process and the challenges you overcame for each project – it gives hiring managers a glimpse into your thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:When putting together your CV, highlight relevant experience in architectural design software, like AutoCAD or Revit. Plus, if you have any internships or coursework that involved real-world projects, be sure to mention them. We want to see not just what you've done, but how it relates directly to this role at Customs Bureau!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to Customs Bureau. Talk about specific projects or values of theirs you admire, and how you see yourself contributing to their team. We want to feel your enthusiasm – let it shine through your words!
Use Professional Terminology:Don't shy away from using industry-specific jargon that demonstrates your expertise! Terms like 'sustainability', 'scale', and 'aesthetics' can not only show your knowledge but also help you connect with the hiring team. Just ensure it's done in a way that's relatable and not overly technical, so we can see your passion clearly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Customs Bureau
✨Master the Technical Questions
In an architecture interview, be ready to tackle some technical questions about building codes, design principles, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of materials and components, as you might even face scenarios to solve during the interview that showcase your problem-solving skills in real-time.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure it not only showcases your best work but also highlights your design thinking process, from sketches to final outputs. During the interview, be prepared to discuss the projects in detail—what challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and what you learnt.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
In today's architecture landscape, sustainability is key. Be sure to highlight any projects that involved eco-friendly designs or your understanding of sustainable practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the trends but are genuinely passionate about creating a better future through your designs.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Architecture is a collaborative field, so showing that you're a team player is essential. When conversing with the interviewers, actively listen and respond to their ideas. This isn’t just about you showing off your skills, but also about connecting and demonstrating how well you’d fit into their team at Customs Bureau.
