Curioso

We're looking for an experienced Technical Lead to join our Chicago studio. Position Overview This is a senior technical role for an interior designer or architect who thrives in the details of project delivery without losing sight of design intent. Lead the production and delivery of comprehensive, cohesive contract documents and construction document sets across all project phases (SD, DD, CD, CA)Develop space planning concepts and generate program documentsManage project management, design coordination, and quality control across architecture, ownership, general contractors, and project collaboratorsCoordinate with external partners — architect of record, kitchen designer, lighting consultants, MEP engineers, and general contractor — to ensure design intent is aligned and fully coordinatedOversee FF&E coordination and technical documentation across project phasesOrchestrate and streamline the design documentation process across both Chicago and Mérida studiosLead construction administration services, including RFI responses, shop drawings, and submittal reviews, field visits, punch list reviews, and issue resolutionEnsure conformance with interior architecture and design standards at each project phaseCollaborate with Studio Design Leaders and Project Orchestrators to keep deliverables, scope, and schedules on targetManage and coordinate all consultant communicationsKeep Studio Design Leaders informed on project status, risks, and progress 5–8 years of interior design or interior architecture experience, including 2–3 years of hospitality experienceDeep, hands-on involvement across all project phases (SD, DD, CD, CA, and construction)Expert proficiency in Revit (BIM) and AutoCAD, from quick space planning through full technical documentation and construction documentsDeep knowledge of contract documents, shop drawings, and FF&E coordination across all project phasesStrong visualization skills across the full range — concept sketches, 3D modeling (SketchUp, Revit), and rendering (Enscape, Lumion, V-Ray, or equivalent)Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and BluebeamAccredited degree in Interior Design or ArchitectureStrong project management, quality control, and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight timelinesA collaborative leadership style with clear, confident communicationBilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Our award-winning projects represent a range of industries, including luxury hospitality, lifestyle hospitality, restaurant, wellness, multifamily, and professional spaces. We're looking for a senior Design Lead to join our Chicago studio. The Design Lead is a senior leadership position for an experienced hospitality interior designer who moves fluidly between design vision and project execution. Responsibilities Lead multidisciplinary project teams through all design phases (SD, DD, CD) on hotel, resort, restaurant, and mixed-use projectsEstablish design vision, strategy, goals, budgets, and schedules — and hold the team accountable to themMaintain quality standards across design deliverables, ensuring alignment with both client expectations and Curioso's design ethosDirect FF&E specification, procurement coordination, and vendor relationshipsRecognize and communicate opportunities for additional services as project needs evolveMentor and develop designers at all levels, fostering a culture of creative rigor and collaborationPresent design concepts, narratives, and progress to clients and internal stakeholders with clarity and confidenceCoordinate across interior architecture, architecture, engineering, and construction disciplinesCollaborate with Managing Partners and Studio Design Leaders to align staffing and priorities across both studiosIdentify opportunities to streamline workflows and improve studio efficiencyBuild and strengthen client and brand relationships to support business developmentBilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Curioso is in search of an INTERIOR DESIGNER with experience leading interior design and interior architecture projects. The ideal candidate is passionate about research, brainstorming and has a strong desire to collaborate with others. You will join a diverse, fast paced, and highly creative design studio who are driven by curiosity and lead with empathy while thriving in a... highly entrepreneurial environment. • 8+ years of interior design experience with solid hospitality experience • Deep experience and involvement in all phases of design and construction (SD, DD, CD, CA and Construction) • Proficiency in Revit required for quick space planning exercise to full construction documentation drawings • Strong visualization skills: from quick concept sketches to complete presentation sketches, 3D modeling (Google SketchUp, Revit) to rendering (Enscape, Lumion, Vray, or equivalent) • Proven industry experience selecting, documenting, creating FF&E/Finish Specifications in Design Spec • Experience in developing thoughtful product palettes and FF&E selections that are inline with budget, meet brand standards and meet lead times. • Lead conceptual design, schematic design, design development & construction documents • Organize and run regular in house design sessions presenting to Principal, Studio Leaders and Project Team • Convey compelling story/narrative to the internal team and external stakeholders on projects as well as outstanding communication, presentation, and design team collaboration • Work as part of a team sketching/modeling design solutions, preparing drawings, editing presentations, sourcing materials, finishes, FF&E, producing work drawings and specifications • Work closely with Principal/Studio Design Leaders and client or brand manager to ensure design direction, schedule and budget is on course • Collaborate internally with Studio Leader, Project Orchestrator, Technical Leader and FF&E Studio Leader to ensure project deliverables are on target and will exceed our clients’ expectations • Represent Curioso and the design for all consult coordination meetings • Manage and streamline the design process for team members in both Chicago and Mérida to drive projects toward implementation • Develop internal FF&E budgets to ensure alignment time with client expectations • Manage the CFA, finish process, shop drawing approval process • Responsible for creating and delivering presentations based on Curioso’s deliverable standards for presentations and contract documents.