Lead Architectural Designer

Red Circle

Lead Architectural Designer

Detroit, MI
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Building Dreams, Changing Lives.

    It's the mantra that has driven us since our founding in 2012. Led by our founder Randy Najjar, Sapphire Luxury Homes has been blending architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, and real estate into one seamless, high-touch experience. Every home is a statement of vision and craftsmanship, shaped by collaboration and respect for how people dream to live.

    As we enter our next chapter, we're looking for a Lead Architectural Designer to take the creative reins as Randy steps fully into the CEO role. This is a rare opportunity to build alongside a founder who has spent 13 years establishing one of Michigan's premier luxury homebuilders and guide its creative direction as he steps into the CEO role. You'll lead design across multi-million-dollar residences, mentor a talented team, and help clients bring their wildest dreams to life.

    If you're driven by design excellence, client connection, and the belief that great architecture can transform lives, this is where your vision becomes the blueprint.

    What You’ll Do

    Lead Design End-to-End

    • Oversee the architectural and interior design division, managing the full process from schematic design through construction documentation

    • Mentor and manage a team including an architect for construction drawings and the interior design team

    • Ensure all work aligns with industry best practices, building codes, and company standards

    Champion the Client Experience

    • Partner closely with clients to understand their vision, preferences, and functional needs—delivering a seamless and elevated design experience

    • Guide clients through material selections, site planning, and infrastructure decisions (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, automation)

    • Help clients explore possibilities they may not have considered—elevating their vision while honoring their goals and budget

    Drive Collaboration & Execution

    • Collaborate with civil engineers, landscape designers, VP of Construction, and project managers to ensure designs are buildable, beautiful, and on-budget

    • Prepare and submit permitting applications to municipalities and HOAs

    • Represent Sapphire in client presentations, industry events, and municipal meetings

    Stay Ahead of the Curve

    • Keep current on architectural trends, materials, and technologies in luxury home construction

    Who You Are

    You've spent years designing high-end custom homes and leading teams that bring those visions to life. You're fluent in the tools of the trade—AutoCAD, SketchUp, and the design software that turns ideas into reality—and you know luxury residential construction inside and out: materials, methods, building systems, and what it takes to execute flawlessly.

    But what really sets you apart is how you work with clients. You communicate clearly, present ideas confidently, and guide people through complex decisions with care and clarity. You manage multiple high-value projects without losing sight of the details, and you bring a leadership style that inspires your team to do their best work.

    You hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, but more importantly, you bring a spirit of lifelong learning, always exploring new tools, materials, and methods to elevate your clients' experience.