At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead luxury hospitality design projects and create stunning interiors.
- Company: Global luxury design studio with a focus on high-end hospitality.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, potential for permanent role, and creative leadership opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with mentorship and growth potential.
- Why this job: Shape a new London hub and influence luxury guest experiences.
- Qualifications: Strong design leadership and experience in hospitality interiors.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Location: London (Hybrid – mix of home working and in‑person collaboration)
Contract: 12‑month consultancy contract (outside PAYE), with a view to transitioning to permanent employment once the London studio is fully set up.
About the role
We are seeking a Design Director to lead high‑end hospitality design projects for a global luxury design studio, with a focus on hotels, resorts and branded residences. Based in London, you will act as a senior creative leader for EMEA projects, working closely with clients, internal teams and partner studios to deliver distinctive, narrative‑led interiors and guest experiences. This is an opportunity to help shape and grow a new London‑based hub, working in a hybrid way while the permanent studio is being established.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the creative direction and design vision for multiple luxury hospitality projects (hotels, resorts, branded residences) from concept through to completion.
- Interpret client briefs and brand narratives, translating them into compelling design concepts, storyboards and presentations that capture the spirit of each place.
- Oversee and mentor project teams (interior designers, FF).
Contract type: 12‑month consultancy contract initially; the successful candidate must be set up to work on a self‑employed / freelance basis and invoice monthly (no PAYE offered during this period).
Future potential: Intention to transition this role to a permanent, PAYE position once the London studio and local entity are fully established, subject to mutual agreement and performance.
Design Director (Contract/Hybrid) - Hospitality Interiors employer: Portico Recruitment ltd
Join a prestigious global luxury design studio as a Design Director in London, where you will lead innovative hospitality projects that redefine guest experiences. Our hybrid work culture promotes flexibility and collaboration, allowing you to thrive in a creative environment while shaping the future of our new London hub. With opportunities for mentorship and professional growth, this role offers a unique chance to make a significant impact in the luxury interiors sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Director (Contract/Hybrid) - Hospitality Interiors
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend design events, and join online forums. The more people you know in the luxury hospitality scene, the better your chances of landing that Design Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best work in high-end hospitality design. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your designs do the talking.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and their projects. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their brand narrative and how you can contribute to their new London hub.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Director (Contract/Hybrid) - Hospitality Interiors
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Creative Flair:When you're crafting your application, let your creativity shine through! Use engaging language and visuals if possible to showcase your design style and approach. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can lead high-end hospitality projects, so make sure your passion for luxury design comes across.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter. Take the time to tailor your application to our specific role. Highlight your experience with hotels, resorts, and branded residences, and how you’ve successfully interpreted client briefs in the past. We want to see how you can bring our vision to life!
Be Clear and Concise:While we love creativity, clarity is key! Make sure your application is easy to read and straight to the point. Use bullet points for your experience and achievements, and keep your cover letter focused on why you’re the perfect fit for this Design Director role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures it gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter, which we absolutely love to see!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portico Recruitment ltd
✨Know Your Design Narrative
Before the interview, dive deep into the luxury hospitality sector. Familiarise yourself with current trends and successful projects. Be ready to discuss how you can translate client briefs into compelling design concepts that resonate with their brand narrative.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Design Director, you'll be leading teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully mentored and guided project teams in the past. Highlight your ability to inspire creativity and collaboration, especially in a hybrid working environment.
✨Prepare for Client Interaction Scenarios
Since the role involves regular client meetings, think about how you would handle various client scenarios. Practice articulating your design vision clearly and confidently, ensuring you can engage clients in meaningful discussions about their projects.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your best friend! Make sure it’s up-to-date and showcases your most relevant work in luxury hospitality. Be prepared to walk through your projects, explaining your thought process and the impact of your designs on guest experiences.
