Lead the Design Future of a Growing Residential Design Firm
We are seeking an experienced and highly creative Director of Residential Design to join our leadership team.
This role is ideal for a senior residential designer who has spent years mastering their craft and is ready to take on a larger leadership role within a growing and ambitious firm.
Our company specializes in the design of custom homes, additions, major renovations, residential multi-unit developments, and residential building conversions. We are committed to delivering exceptional design, technical excellence, and outstanding client experiences.
As we continue to grow, we are looking for a leader who can elevate the quality of our work, mentor our design team, and help shape the future direction of the firm.
This is more than a design position. It is an opportunity to become a key part of the leadership team and play a meaningful role in building one of Ontario’s most respected residential design firms.
About the Role
The Director of Residential Design will be responsible for leading the design vision of projects from initial concept through planning approvals.
You will work closely with clients, municipal authorities, consultants, and internal team members to create thoughtful, creative, and practical design solutions. While technical knowledge is important, this role is focused primarily on design leadership, planning strategy, and project vision rather than production drafting.
The successful candidate will be highly creative, client-focused, and capable of leading complex residential projects with confidence.
ResponsibilitiesDesign Leadership
· Lead the design of custom homes, additions, major renovations, residential multi-unit developments, and residential conversions
· Develop innovative and creative design solutions tailored to client goals and project constraints
· Create and oversee conceptual designs, site planning studies, massing exercises, and design presentations
· Maintain a high standard of design excellence across all projects
· Guide projects from early visioning and feasibility through approvals
· Participate in client meetings and design presentations
Planning & Approvals
· Lead projects through municipal planning processes
· Prepare and support Minor Variance applications
· Participate in Committee of Adjustment and planning-related approvals
· Coordinate Conservation Authority approvals where required
· Review zoning requirements and planning policies to identify development opportunities and constraints
· Collaborate with consultants, planners, and municipal staff to advance project approvals
Leadership & Mentorship
· Mentor and support junior designers and technologists
· Provide design direction, guidance, and constructive feedback
· Help establish and refine company-wide design standards and best practices
· Foster a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement
Strategic Growth
· Contribute to the long-term growth and vision of the firm
· Help strengthen the company’s reputation for design excellence
· Assist in developing systems and processes that support future growth
· Play an active role in leadership initiatives as the company expands
Qualifications Required
· 15+ years of experience in residential design
· Extensive experience designing custom homes
· Strong portfolio demonstrating creativity, design ability, and project leadership
· Advanced proficiency in Revit
· Strong understanding of the Ontario Building Code
· Experience working with municipal planning departments and approval processes
· Experience with Minor Variances, zoning reviews, and planning approvals
· Excellent communication, presentation, and leadership skills
· Strong artistic and creative design abilities
· Ability to confidently lead client-facing meetings and presentations
Preferred
· Successful completion of Ontario Building Code examinations for:
o Part 9 Small Buildings
o Part 3 / Complex Buildings
· Experience with residential multi-unit developments
· Experience with Conservation Authority approvals
· Experience presenting projects before municipal committees and approval authorities
BCIN qualification is not required.
Who You Are
You are someone who:
· Has a genuine passion for residential design and architecture
· Enjoys solving complex design challenges
· Balances creativity with practicality
· Takes ownership and accountability for your work
· Enjoys mentoring and developing others
· Thinks strategically and contributes beyond individual projects
· Wants to help build something meaningful for the long term
Most importantly, you care deeply about design quality and take pride in creating exceptional projects that positively impact clients and communities.
Compensation & Benefits
· Competitive salary of $100,000 – $125,000 per year
· Performance-based bonus opportunities
· Professional development support
· Flexible work environment
· Leadership growth opportunities
· Opportunity to help shape the future of a growing firm
Apply Today
Please submit:
· Resume
· Portfolio showcasing residential design projects
· Cover letter outlining your experience and why this opportunity interests you
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: $100,000.00-$125,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
- Work from home
Application question(s):
- Are you proficient with Revit?
Experience:
- work: 10 years (preferred)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Barrie, ON L4M 1G5
