Design Manager (Super-Prime Residential) in London

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Design Manager to lead the design delivery of ultra-luxury residential developments.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the design process from concept through completion, ensuring that projects achieve the highest standards of architectural excellence, craftsmanship, functionality, and client satisfaction.

Working closely with developers, architects, interior designers, consultants, contractors, and high-net-worth clients, the Design Manager will oversee the coordination, development, and implementation of all design disciplines to deliver exceptional super-prime residential projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Design Leadership
• Lead and manage the design process throughout all project stages, from feasibility and concept design through planning, technical design, construction, and handover.
• Ensure design solutions align with the project vision, commercial objectives, programme requirements, and client expectations.
• Maintain exceptional standards of quality, innovation, and attention to detail appropriate for super-prime residential developments.
• Review and challenge design proposals to optimise functionality, buildability, sustainability, and value.
• Consultant and Stakeholder Management
• Manage and coordinate external architects, interior designers, landscape architects, structural engineers, MEP consultants, specialist designers, and other project stakeholders.
• Chair design team meetings and ensure effective communication between all parties.
• Monitor consultant performance, deliverables, and compliance with project briefs and contractual obligations.
• Act as the primary design interface between the development team, project team, and client representatives.
• Design Coordination
• Oversee multidisciplinary design coordination to ensure fully integrated and clash-free design solutions.
• Review design information, drawings, specifications, schedules, and technical submissions.
• Ensure consistency between architectural, interior design, landscape, and engineering packages.
• Manage design change processes and maintain design control throughout project delivery.
• Planning and Regulatory Compliance
• Support planning applications and statutory approvals processes.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant planning policies, building regulations, fire safety requirements, accessibility standards, and sustainability objectives.
• Coordinate responses to planning conditions and regulatory authority requirements.
• Commercial and Programme Management
• Work closely with development, commercial, and construction teams to align design decisions with budget and programme objectives.
• Identify design-related risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Monitor design progress against project milestones and ensure timely delivery of information.
• Evaluate value engineering opportunities without compromising design quality.
• Construction Support
• Provide design leadership during construction phases.
• Review contractor proposals, shop drawings, samples, mock-ups, and material submissions.
• Conduct site inspections to ensure works are delivered in accordance with design intent and quality expectations.
• Resolve technical design issues arising during construction.
• Client Experience
• Support the delivery of bespoke client requirements and customisation packages where applicable.
• Present design proposals confidently to senior stakeholders, investors, and private clients.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, consultants, and project partners throughout the project lifecycle.
• Required Qualifications & Experience
• Degree in Architecture, Architectural Technology, Interior Architecture, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 8–12 years' experience managing high-end residential, luxury hospitality, or super-prime mixed-use developments.
• Proven track record delivering ultra-luxury residential projects from inception through completion.
• Strong understanding of design management principles, construction methodologies, and project delivery processes.
• Experience working with internationally recognised architects and interior designers.
• Excellent knowledge of planning regulations, building codes, and construction standards.
• Proficiency in design review and coordination software, including Autodesk platforms, BIM environments, and project management systems.
• Key Competencies
• Exceptional design appreciation and attention to detail.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Commercial awareness and strategic thinking.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple consultants and complex design packages simultaneously.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and client focus.

Desirable Experience

• Experience delivering residences valued in excess of £10 million.
• Knowledge of bespoke joinery, luxury finishes, specialist lighting, wellness facilities, smart home systems, and high-end FF&E.
• Experience with international luxury brands or ultra-high-net-worth private clients.
• Familiarity with sustainability certifications and best-practice environmental design standards.
• Reporting To
• Development Director / Project Director
• Direct Reports

Design Coordinators, Assistant Design Managers, and specialist design consultants as required.

• Success Measures
• Delivery of world-class super-prime residential developments on time and within budget.
• Achievement of design excellence and client satisfaction targets.
• Effective coordination and integration of all design disciplines.
• Successful management of project risks, approvals, and stakeholder relationships.
• Maintenance of exceptional quality standards throughout design and construction.