Author Archives: Amanda Hansen

INTERIOR DESIGNER | GBD Architects

INTERIOR DESIGNER | 0-3 Years Experience

Established in 1969 in Portland, Oregon, GBD Architects Incorporated (GBD) is an employee-owned Architecture & Interior Design firm dedicated to creating buildings and spaces that work as hard as we do. Thoughtfully and artfully crafted buildings that are quiet, sophisticated solutions to real human and environmental problems—not the source of new ones.
With a staff of approximately 55 people and diverse range of project types across many sectors and scales, our multi-disciplinary practice is built on the core values of professional excellence, design quality and collaboration. Our firm operates within a hybrid work model utilizing the latest virtual collaboration tools for ultimate employee flexibility. We strive to support individuals to achieve their personal career goals and value the importance of work-life balance. GBD also provides 12 weeks paid family leave.

Our award-winning Interior Design team consists of a wide range of talented individuals with expertise in multiple project sectors: Workplace, Tenant Improvement, Hospitality, and Multi-family/Mixed Use. The interiors culture is highly energetic, collegial, supportive and conducive to accelerated career growth.

We are seeking applicants for an Interior Designer to join our team with 0-3 years’ experience. As an entry level Interior Designer, this position works with a lead Interior Designer to learn from and assist with the production of design concepts and drawings that meet the client’s expectations and the firm’s goals of design excellence and quality service. You will learn to develop comprehensive materials and finishes palettes, and present to the project team and clients.

Please see GBD’s website for more information about the firm: http://www.gbdarchitects.com

QUALIFICATIONS
· Approximately 0-3 years’ experience in an Interior Design and/or Architectural firm
· Accredited degree in Interior Design or Architecture
· Strong visual, verbal, and written communication skills
· Creatively solves complex design problems
· Ability to work collaboratively on a project team
· Excellent time management and multitasking skills
· Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Sketch Up, Enscape, Adobe Creative Suite, MS Office Suite.

COMPENSATION
GBD is an equal opportunity employer that offers competitive salaries, outstanding benefits package, and potential stock ownership in the firm. Exact compensation will be based upon experience and negotiated with selected candidate.

Sponsor Spotlight: Dennis’ 7 Dees

Company Name: Dennis’ 7 Dee’s
Your Name: Paige Tisdale
Local Rep’s Position/Years?: 3.5
IIDA member since: 2021
Involved on the IIDA Oregon Chapter Board? Director of Signature Events

We are a local, family-owned and operated Portland business providing landscaping services and garden centers across the region. We offer premium residential and commercial landscaping and Interior services as well as retail plant shops and garden centers to create your own green oasis, inside or out! Specifically for IIDA, I like to promote our Moss Art, living walls, as well as real and faux plant designs and care.

What is your favorite IIDA event and why?
I think my favorite event is the Design Awards in the fall. So many cool projects that are deep dived and analyzed with the great work being celebrated and awarded. It’s an event not to miss!

What is your favorite product/service offered by your company and why?
I think one of my favorite things my team does is Moss Art creations. Anything is possible, and it is the most customizable offering we provide and has so many solutions with little to no maintenance.

What aspect of your company are you most proud of and why?
I’m most proud of our interior plant care team. They are a tightknit group and quality is our number one priority. It is a creative outlet and we bring beautification to all kinds of spaces!

What value do you see in being an IIDA Oregon Chapter Annual Sponsor?
The connections and education I have received have been invaluable in learning about the A&D community. Being more involved has provided me with deeper relationships and better outreach to clients and partners. It’s one of our best investments for the interior projects!

What impact do you see the IIDA Oregon Chapter having on the A&D community in Oregon?
The opportunity to grow and learn new skills is highly encouraged with this chapter. The community is so uplifting and a community that encourages you to grow. If you’re wanting to further your career, I encourage you to get involved and see how you can blossom!

What is your personal mantra?
There is no growth in the comfort zone.

What gets you excited about design?
The endless opportunities that can be created as well as seeing a unique design realized and installed.

Sponsor Spotlight: Ankrom Moisan

Company Name: Ankrom Moisan
Number of years in business? 41 years
Involved on the IIDA Oregon Chapter Board?
Clare Goddard, Immediate Past President 2023-Present, President 2022-2023, President Elect 2021-2022, VP of Communications 2010-2011
Roberta Pennington, VP of Advocacy 2021-Present, President 2008-2009
Jenna Mogstad, VP of Communications 2023-Present, Director of Website 2021-2023
Emily Feicht, Director of Student Affairs 2021-Present

Formed in 1983, Ankrom Moisan now employs approximately 200 diverse, talented, and passionate architects, interior designers, planners and brand strategists with offices in Portland, Seattle, and San Francisco. We balance creative, innovative and sustainable designs with robust technical expertise. Our portfolio includes award winning projects in affordable housing, senior communities, higher education, urban living, hospitality, healthcare and behavioral health.

What is your favorite IIDA event and why?
The Design Excellence Awards. It is so great to see the whole A&D community come together for one night to celebrate the amazing design coming out of the state of Oregon. Whether or not an Ankrom Moisan project wins, we always come away feeling inspired by the industry.

What aspect of your company are you most proud of and why?
The culture at Ankrom Moisan is something special. It not only fosters a sense of community, it makes for better design.
At Ankrom Moisan, we are all about celebrating everyone’s unique perspectives. We operate with the understanding that we’re better when we work together, encouraging each other’s passions. Everyone is given space to bring unconventional ideas to the table which amplifies creativity and cultivates trust.
When you work at or with Ankrom Moisan, you get to collaborate with a team of playful, unpretentious, purpose-driven designers.

What value do you see in being an IIDA Oregon Chapter Annual Sponsor?
Being able to support the IIDA Oregon Chapter as an Annual Sponsor is important to Ankrom Moisan because our sponsorship goes directly towards all the quality events and programming put on by the chapter. We know that without our support the Chapter would not be able to provide our community with a wide variety of offerings that they currently do.
What impact do you see the IIDA Oregon Chapter having on the A&D community in Oregon?
As the face of the interior design profession for the state of Oregon, IIDA Oregon serves the design community through its variety of programming and events. IIDA Oregon Chapter programs help to foster development, while their events help to create a sense of connection and community within and outside the profession.

What are your firm’s core values?
Lead with our heart. Share openly. Embrace change. Have fun with it. Be yourself. Trust.
These are our Hows, the values by which we work and play. We encourage everyone to show up in life and at work authentically, to seek connections and embrace the work we do with enthusiasm and flexibility.

What gets you excited about design?
Having a positive impact on people’s lives.
At Ankrom Moisan, we’re driven by the goal to design places where people and communities thrive. It’s so exciting to see how thi purpose manifests in such a variety of ways, across our teams.
Some of our teams are very focused on sustainability and biophilia right now. For instance, we’re working on innovative Living Building projects, creating new models for healthier senior living.
Other teams are driving positive impact through trauma-informed design approaches, raising the bar for healthcare and affordable housing spaces.

SENIOR INTERIOR DESIGNER | Skylab Architecture

Senior Interior Designer
Skylab Architecture

We are seeking an experienced Senior Interior Designer to lead design on a broad range of projects including commercial, mixed-use, hospitality, retail, and single-family residential. This individual must possess a strong foundation for creative concept development and work well with project teams. Excellent visualization, organization, and communication skills are required, as well as the desire and commitment to contribute in a highly design-focused and detailed-oriented studio environment.

As a Senior Interior Designer at our firm, you will lead the interior design process, working closely with clients, project teams, and stakeholders to create exceptional interior spaces that align with our design vision. You will bring your expertise in interior design concepts, materials, and finishes to elevate our projects to new heights of aesthetic and functional excellence.

Senior Interior Designer Responsibilities:

  • Lead the interior design development for projects across various sectors, including commercial, hospitality, residential, and retail.
  • Collaborate with architects, engineers, and contractors to integrate interior design seamlessly into overall project goals.
  • Create mood boards, concept presentations, and design proposals that showcase innovative ideas and design solutions.
  • Develop detailed interior design documentation, including floor plans, elevations, material specifications, and FF&E schedules.
  • Coordinate with vendors, suppliers, and fabricators to source materials and furnishings that meet project requirements and design intent.
  • Mentor and guide junior designers, providing leadership and fostering a collaborative team environment.
  • Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and sustainable design practices.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Interior Design or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in interior design, with a portfolio demonstrating a range of successful projects.
  • Proficiency in industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and Revit (preferred but not required).
  • Strong understanding of interior design principles, space planning, materials, and finishes.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and client-facing skills.
  • Ability to lead design teams, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
  • Knowledge of sustainable design practices and LEED certification is a plus.
  • NCIDQ certification or similar credentials are advantageous.

How to apply:
Submit a cover letter, detailed resume, and references to hr@skylabarchitecture.com
Include the role/title in the email subject line
No phone calls, please
Skylab is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.

Sponsor Spotlight: Mohawk Group

Company Name: Mohawk Group
Your Name: Beth Gish & Mia Allen
Local Rep’s Position/Years? Beth 12 years/Mia 6 months
IIDA member since: Beth 2012/ Mia 2013
Involved on the IIDA Oregon Chapter Board? If so, list position:
Beth: VP of Advocacy, VP of Membership and Chapter Advisor
Mia: VP of Student Affairs, President Elect, President, Past President and Chapter Advisor

Mohawk Group is the commercial division of Mohawk Industries, the world’s largest flooring company. With manufacturing on four continents, Mohawk Industries employs over 43,000 globally and offers a comprehensive array of fashionable, high performance and sustainable flooring options for residential and commercial spaces as well as a growing selection of products for surfaces beyond the floor.

What is your favorite IIDA event and why?
Beth: The Design Crawl is my favorite event- it’s a great opportunity to see the amazing work from our design community as well as connect in person.
Mia: The NEXT Breakfast is one of my favorite events, as the topics are truly unique and the keynote speakers are engaging on so many levels. I walk away each year feeling inspired and eager to do more, both personally and professionally.

What is your favorite product/service offered by your company and why?
Beth: At the moment, I’m loving our collection Above and Below- it checks all of the performance sustainability requirements for rigorous environments while being beautiful in a multitude of spaces.
Mia: I am loving our Chromatic Cadence collection, as this product line brings forward a wide array of vibrant color options for designers to choose from for their unique project types. I can see this collection bringing new life and joy to spaces and look forward to seeing all the creative designs that come forward!

What aspect of your company are you most proud of and why?
Beth: I’m most proud of Mohawk’s sustainability efforts – Mohawk Industries has earned a place among America’s Climate Leaders presented by USA Today. The company is continually identifying innovative ways to lower greenhouse gas emissions while creating sustainable products that improve the built environment. All Mohawk Group commercial flooring products are carbon neutral plus a five percent offset!
Mia: Mohawk is pushing the industry on the sustainability front – we signed the Climate Pledge to demonstrate our commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040!

What value do you see in being an IIDA Oregon Chapter Annual Sponsor?
Beth: Mohawk Group values collaboration and believes that we are “better together.” By being an annual sponsor we are able to contribute to the health of the chapter and support valuable programming.
Mia: The Annual Sponsorship allows us to be part of all of the amazing programming the chapter puts on throughout the year. We really want to be a resource for our design community and IIDA Oregon Chapter’s active involvement and continued growth makes this possible, while building lifelong relationships along the way!

What impact do you see the IIDA Oregon Chapter having on the A&D community in Oregon?
Beth: The chapter has a different impact depending on where one is in their career. It serves new designers right out of school as a network for career growth and mentorship as well providing valuable programming such as “state of the industry” data and roundtable discussions for mid-level and senior associate’s
Mia: Involvement in the IIDA Oregon Chapter has been so valuable to me throughout my career, as it has provided me the opportunity to serve and grow as a designer and now as a Sales Executive. I can’t imagine where my career would be right now without the support of this organization. I have seen designers grow and bloom by their volunteer work and be stronger leaders because of it!

What is your personal mantra?
Beth: Start with yes; there is always a solution.

What gets you excited about design?
Beth: I’m excited about any type of design solutions that improve lives. Good design ultimately is also good business.

Favorite design magazine/blog?
Mia: I love the Interior Design Magazine, I can’t seem to let any go because of the beauty that lives within the pages!

On a typical Saturday where can we find you?
Mia: I love getting out of town with my camper van and doing short weekend getaways to the coast or mountain with my husband and my sweet Portuguese Water Dog Olly!

Featured Blog Post: Embracing Change and Growth

As we step into 2024, the IIDA Oregon Chapter is gearing up for an exciting year filled with new initiatives and a renewed commitment to our members. Drawing upon our recent winter board retreat, the Western Region Chapter Leadership Conference, and Winter Chapter Leadership Conference we’ve had a busy end of year collaborating, reflecting, and setting our sights on the future. We’re thrilled to share some significant changes and upcoming efforts that will shape the year ahead!


Winter Chapter Leadership Conference | Past President, President, President-Elect

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
IIDA Oregon Chapter’s commitment to social justice formally began in 2020 but has been an internal value long before that. In 2024, we are proud to officially launch our Social Justice Committee, marking a significant step in our commitment to promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This committee will spearhead initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive environment within our chapter. We believe that embracing diverse perspectives and voices is not just a goal but a necessity for a thriving and innovative community. We are committed to this work and ask the community to hold us accountable in our efforts!

Board Operations and Organizational Culture:
A healthy organizational culture is crucial for the success of any group. Our board is dedicated to fostering this culture through regular retreats and participation in chapter leadership conferences. We believe in the power of continuous feedback loops to refine our operations and ensure that our chapter remains a dynamic and supportive community for all members. In this vein, you’ll notice our website has gone through a refresh and overall – we’re specifically incorporating a platform for members to give feedback and a community calendar to foster more connections and elevate industry events.

Advocacy in Action:
Advocacy is at the forefront of our agenda for 2024. We are expanding our Advocacy Committee to amplify our impact and strategically plan legislative pursuits in 2025. By advocating for our industry, we aim to create positive change and contribute to the growth and sustainability of our profession.

Promoting Belonging:
Belonging is a cornerstone of our community, and we are taking steps to extend that sense of belonging beyond our immediate surroundings. Outreach events are in the pipeline for Eugene and Bend, connecting with members in different regions and strengthening the bonds that make our chapter so unique. We are steadfast in our commitment to grow our design community beyond Portland to encompass the truly statewide chapter that we are.

We are enthusiastic about the opportunities this year holds and can’t wait to see you at our upcoming events. Here’s to a year of growth, connection, and positive change!

Sincerely,
The IIDA Oregon Chapter Executive Leadership
Emily Wright | President
Peter Harrison | President-Elect
Candice Day | Director of Internal Communications