Author: Brittany McClain

  • Interiors Project Manager, Design Lead – Housing | LRS Architects

    Location: Portland, OR
    Job Type: Full-Time

    Design. People. Trust.

    At LRS Architects, our Housing Studios are growing, and we’re looking for talented interior design professionals at multiple levels. LRS Architects is seeking an experienced Interiors Project Manager/Design Manager and technical Interior Design Lead to lead the delivery of thoughtful, high-quality interior environments for our Housing Studio, including Senior Living and Multifamily projects.

    This role, located in Portland, is ideal for a collaborative leader and interior design professional who is passionate about design excellence, enjoys building strong client relationships, thrives managing projects from concept through construction, and enjoys solving complex technical challenges while collaborating closely with designers, architects, consultants, and clients.

    You’ll oversee project teams, coordinate consultants, mentor staff, and ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and aligned with our clients’ vision. You’ll also play a key role in developing high-quality construction documentation, coordinating project teams, and ensuring design intent is successfully translated into built environments.

    What You’ll Do

    Depending on your experience and career level, you’ll have opportunities to:

    • Serve as the primary day-to-day contact for clients, fostering trusted relationships and ensuring successful project outcomes.
    • Lead interior design projects from programming and concept development through construction administration.
    • Manage project scope, schedules, staffing, budgets, fees, invoices, and overall financial performance.
    • Coordinate and communicate effectively with clients, consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, and internal project teams.
    • Guide project teams through all phases of design while maintaining quality, technical accuracy, and design intent.
    • Mentor and support designers, encouraging professional growth, collaboration, and accountability.
    • Oversee production and coordination of project documentation using Revit and firm standards.
    • Ensure projects comply with applicable building codes, accessibility requirements, and regulatory approvals.
    • Participate in project planning and resource allocation.
    • Lead construction administration activities and ensure successful project closeout.
    • Research products, materials, building systems, and code requirements to support project design and documentation.
    • Coordinate interior design elements with architectural, structural, MEP, and construction requirements.

    What You’ll Bring

    • A passion for creating exceptional, human-centered housing environments.
    • Proven experience managing interior design projects from concept through construction.
    • Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor teams while balancing project priorities.
    • Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities with clients, consultants, and contractors.
    • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
    • Confidence making design decisions while balancing budget, schedule, functionality, and quality.
    • A collaborative mindset aligned with LRS’s people-first culture and values.

    Skills and Experience We Value

    • Professional degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or Architecture.
    • Approximately 8+ years of professional experience in architecture or interior design.
    • Significant experience leading Senior Living, Multifamily, Student Housing, or Hospitality interior design projects.
    • Demonstrated experience managing project budgets, consultant coordination, staffing, schedules, and client communication.
    • Advanced proficiency in Revit; AutoCAD experience preferred.
    • Experience coordinating construction documentation and consultant teams.
    • Working knowledge of building codes, accessibility standards, permitting, and construction administration.
    • Experience with Deltek Ajera is a plus.
    • NCIDQ certification, LEED accreditation, or other professional credentials are valued but not required.
    • Knowledge of sustainable design practices including WELL, Fitwel, and LEED.

    What We Offer

    We believe that people do their best work when they feel valued, supported, and inspired. At LRS, you’ll find:

    • Hybrid flexibility: Work where you thrive with a mix of remote and in-office options.
    • Competitive compensation with annual reviews and advancement opportunities.
    • Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and FSA plans.
    • 401(k) with employer match to support your financial future.
    • Generous paid time off and 7+ paid holidays annually.
    • Support for licensure, certification, and continuing education to help you grow.
    • Collaborative, inclusive culture that values mentorship, balance, and equity.
    • A meaningful role in a majority women-owned, JUST-labeled, and Top Workplace-recognized firm.

    Why LRS?

    We’re a team of problem solvers and creative thinkers who believe design is about people first. We don’t just create beautiful environments—we create spaces that connect, support, and inspire.

    Our values of empathy, curiosity, and integrity drive everything we do. We’re here for the long term, and we’re looking for people who want to grow with us.

    Follow us on Instagram to get a glimpse of our work and culture.

    Apply Now

    If you’re ready to lead with integrity and design with purpose, we’d love to meet you.

    Apply online at: https://lrsarchitects.com/workwithus

  • Senior Interior Designer | Wander Studio Interiors

    Senior Interior Designer

    Company: Wander Studio Interiors
    Location: Portland, Oregon
    Schedule: Partially Remote (2 days in-office per week)
    Hours: Part-time, starting at 20 hours per week with opportunities for growth
    Compensation: Dependent on experience


    About Wander Studio Interiors

    Wander Studio Interiors is a growing boutique design firm specializing in thoughtful, authentic interiors for Hospitality, Multi-Family, Senior Housing, and Single-Family environments.

    We believe in creating spaces that reflect real people, real materials, and real connections through thoughtful, intentional design.


    Position Overview

    We’re seeking a Senior Interior Designer with 7+ years of professional experience in commercial and multi-family housing interiors and a strong technical background to join our collaborative team.

    This role is ideal for a designer who can lead projects with minimal oversight while managing schedules, client relationships, and project deliverables. The successful candidate will independently produce accurate, detailed, and coordinated Tenant Improvement (TI) and small Construction Documentation (CD) sets in Revit.

    You’ll take ownership of projects from concept through construction administration while serving as a primary point of contact for clients, consultants, and vendors.

    We’re also looking for someone who is curious, collaborative, passionate about design, eager to learn, willing to be spontaneous, and enjoys having fun along the way.


    What You’ll Need

    Education & Experience

    • Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field
    • 7+ years of professional experience in Hospitality, Multi-Family Housing, and/or Senior Housing design

    Project Management

    • Ability to independently manage multiple projects simultaneously
    • Experience managing schedules, budgets, task delegation, and client communication with minimal supervision
    • Experience with Studio Designer for procurement and project tracking preferred
    • Comfortable learning new project management systems and design software

    Design Software

    • Advanced proficiency in Autodesk Revit
    • Ability to independently produce Tenant Improvement and small Construction Documentation sets, including:
      • Floor plans
      • Reflected ceiling plans (RCPs)
      • Elevations
      • Interior details
      • Finish and furniture plans
    • Strong working knowledge of Bluebeam and AutoCAD
    • Photoshop experience preferred

    Technical Documentation

    • Experience leading FF&E selection, material sourcing, and TI/CD documentation
    • Ability to produce highly accurate documentation with minimal redlining
    • Experience coordinating directly with architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants

    Project Leadership

    • Experience leading projects through:
      • Concept Design
      • Design Development
      • Construction Documentation
      • Construction Administration
    • Strong quality control skills while meeting deadlines with minimal oversight

    Relationship Building

    • Excellent communication skills with clients, contractors, consultants, product representatives, and internal team members
    • Confidence representing Wander Studio Interiors in client meetings and site coordination

    Design Process

    • Strong design concept development skills
    • Experience creating finish palettes and presentation materials
    • Ability to translate design concepts into accurate construction documentation

    What You’ll Do

    Project Management

    • Independently manage timelines, budgets, and deliverables across multiple Tenant Improvement and Multi-Family/Senior Housing projects
    • Work a minimum of 20 hours per week with opportunities to increase hours as project workload grows
    • Track project milestones from concept through construction administration
    • Identify and communicate risks related to scope, schedule, or budget
    • Serve as the primary day-to-day contact for clients, architects, contractors, and consultants

    Tenant Improvement & Construction Documentation

    • Independently produce Revit-based Tenant Improvement and small Construction Documentation sets ready for permit and construction
    • Coordinate documentation directly with architects, contractors, and code consultants
    • Perform quality control reviews of documentation prepared by junior team members

    Design Concept & Materials Sourcing

    • Lead design concept development and finish palette creation
    • Prepare client presentation materials
    • Manage the materials library and vendor relationships
    • Source finishes, furniture, and fixtures
    • Specify FF&E packages and coordinate procurement documentation

    Client & Stakeholder Communication

    • Lead client proposals and project meetings
    • Build and maintain strong client relationships throughout each project
    • Clearly communicate design decisions and project status to both technical and non-technical audiences

    Continuous Learning & Creativity

    • Bring a strong perspective on wellness- and sustainability-focused design
    • Stay current with materials, building codes, and industry best practices

    How to Apply

    Please send the following to team@wander-studio.com:

    • A portfolio (10 pages or fewer) featuring projects you’re most proud of, including process work as well as final designs
    • Your resume
    • A Tenant Improvement or condensed Construction Documentation set where you served as the lead and completed at least 90% of the work independently

  • Interior Designer | Jones Architecture

    NTERIOR DESIGNER

    Jones Architecture is seeking a skilled and motivated interior designer to join our growing team.

    Responsibilities

    • Collaborate on projects in programming, space planning, conceptual design, schematic design, design development, construction documentation, and construction administration
    • Develop and document interior design concepts and details to meet the Clients’ needs and project objectives
    • Collaborate on material selections and generate finish specifications and schedules
    • Participate in the selection and presentation of furniture, fabrics, equipment (FF&E), color palettes, and decorative lighting
    • Engage with product representatives and fabricators to develop a knowledge of finishes and furniture
    • Maintain the material resource library
    • Work with consultants, contractors, and fabricators to meet overall project objectives
    • Participate in the construction administration of projects and review of submittals and finish samples

    Qualifications

    • Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or related field from an accredited school
    • Minimum 3 years experience in Multi-family or Hospitality design
    • Excellent oral, written and graphic communication skills
    • Proficiency in Revit, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign), SketchUp highly preferred
    • Ability to sketch and draw by hand
    • Motivated to take initiative and seek direction as needed
    • Knowledge of furniture, finishes, materials, color selections, and specifications

    Who We Are

    Jones Architecture is full-service architecture and interiors firm based in Portland, OR. We specialize in mixed-use urban infill, residential, historic rehabilitation, mass timber, office buildings, and hospitality projects.

    Jones puts collaboration first and foremost. Our small, tight-knit team encourages thoughtful communication, and values the creative input and expertise of each member. Mentorship, education, and providing opportunities for growth are key to how we operate. We build upon our individual strengths and lift each other up when in need of support. We embrace a culture of collective responsibility, and we share in both successes and challenges. Our underlying approach to collaborative design lends itself to a fast-paced, exciting working environment. We grow and evolve with our projects, with each member of our team working closely with our clients and consultants through every project phase.

    We produce award winning, contextually driven work that is worthy of its people and place. We find beauty in simplicity and have an affinity for buildings that are one with their site and context. Each member of our team strives to make a positive contribution the built environment through our designs, and we align ourselves with like-minded clientele.

    Jones offers a competitive compensation package including paid time off, professional development stipends, 401(k) & profit-sharing opportunities, and generous healthcare options. We believe in a healthy work-life balance and offer flexibility to fit our ever-changing work environment. Jones Architecture is an equal opportunity employer.

    Visit www.jonesarc.com to learn more about the firm and our work.

    How to apply

    Please send a letter of interest, your current resume, and concise work samples (10MB size limit) or a link to your online portfolio to: careers@jonesarc.com

  • Healthcare Interior Designer / Interior Architect | Scott Edwards Architecture

    Healthcare Interior Designer / Interior Architect

    Scott Edwards Architecture
    Location: Portland, OR


    About the Role

    Scott Edwards Architecture is seeking a Healthcare Interior Designer or Interior Architect to join our Health and Wellness Studio.

    The Health and Wellness Studio designs the full spectrum of outpatient and inpatient environments. Projects range widely in both scale and type and include both new construction and tenant improvements.

    We are seeking a self-directed, collaborative, and client-focused professional to design, document, and administer highly functional, durable, and inspirational spaces.


    About Scott Edwards Architecture

    Scott Edwards Architecture is built on the belief that innovative design solutions result from collaboration between designer, client, and community. We guide clients through an exploration of possibilities, grounded in traditional design principles and informed by a contemporary perspective.

    We seek talented and versatile team members who enjoy working in an open studio environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and interaction. Our culture is defined by enthusiasm, support, and teamwork.

    Our commitment extends beyond individual projects. We build lasting relationships with clients and actively support organizations that share our dedication to social, cultural, and environmental sustainability.

    The Health and Wellness Studio is passionate about the work it does, and it shows in the care and precision of its designs. From community health centers to hospital expansions, our projects make a meaningful impact in communities throughout the region.


    Qualifications

    Only candidates meeting the following qualifications and experience will be considered:

    • Degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or Architecture from an accredited institution
    • 10+ years of professional experience in healthcare design and construction document production
    • High proficiency in interior detailing
    • Strong technical and design skills with a commitment to high-quality design
    • Experience producing construction documents
    • Exposure to projects pursuing state-required licensure
    • Familiarity with ADA, OARs, NFPA, and FGI healthcare requirements
    • Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with clients and consultants while managing project budgets and schedules
    • Experience creating quality environments that meet client design standards
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including client presentation experience
    • Proficiency in Revit required
    • Experience with Adobe Creative Suite preferred
    • Experience with SketchUp preferred
    • Construction administration experience, including:
      • Site visits and meetings
      • RFI responses
      • Submittal reviews
      • Shop drawing reviews
    • WELL and/or LEED accreditation preferred
    • Experience mentoring junior healthcare designers is a plus

    What We Offer

    Scott Edwards Architecture offers a competitive salary and benefits package.

    Our People First. Design Forward. philosophy has helped the firm earn recognition as one of Oregon’s 100 Best Companies to Work For by both Oregon Business Magazine and The Oregonian.

    Candidates with more extensive healthcare experience will be compensated accordingly.


    Apply

    Please submit the following for immediate consideration:

    • Cover letter
    • Resume
    • Work samples

    Email applications to:

    careers@seallp.com

    No phone calls, please.


    Equal Opportunity Employer

    Scott Edwards Architecture is an equal opportunity employer and recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. All qualified individuals will be considered for employment.

  • INTERIOR DESIGNER III | FFA Architecture and Interiors

    INTERIOR DESIGNER III | FFA Architecture and Interiors

    Interior Designer, Level III

    FFA Architecture and Interiors

    Since 1956, our practice has focused on designing timeless, beautiful, sustainable architecture. We seek a talented full-time interior designer to support our evolving practice and advance alongside the next generation of leaders, striving to provide thoughtful, contextual designs.

    A career at FFA means joining a collaborative team that strives for creative solutions and design excellence. We believe in cultivating relationships with our clients by consistently delivering outstanding service and working with clients across our market sectors. You will excel at FFA if you are interested in developing interior environments in partnership with the architecture team, supporting interiors-only projects. This position requires clear communication with clients, consultants, and colleagues, critical thinking about design opportunities, and the ability to present conceptual and detailed design ideas to them.

    At FFA, we are deeply committed to responsible resource use and understand the crucial role of the built industry in combating climate change. Our practice provides clients with practical, resilient building strategies and works towards loftier sustainability goals. We are looking for candidates who share our mission, and the ideal candidate will have experience in working on highly sustainable buildings.

    Applicant Requirements

    • A bachelor’s degree in interior design or interior architecture, or an equivalent architecture-based design degree, and work experience
    • You likely have 4-7 years of professional, post-educational experience
    • The ability to travel to local and regional client sites (a personal vehicle is not required)
    • Commitment to our company’s hybrid work schedule, working in-office four days/week. FFA reserves the right to change this policy.

    Candidates should demonstrate the following

    • At least four constructed projects at least 15,000 SF in size; explain your role on the projects and the impact of your contribution to the team
    • Experience in programming, conceptual design, design development, construction documents, and construction administration for new construction and renovation projects
    • REVIT modeling experience on projects and experience developing REVIT construction documents
    • Knowledge and experience in tenant improvement design, space planning, programming, concept development, color and material selection, specifications development, as-built document development, vendor/supplier coordination, construction administration, and furniture procurement, including specifications, documentation, and installation
    • The ability to support or manage multiple simultaneous projects of various scales with overlapping deadlines
    • Experience with project site observation and documentation for accurate base drawing development
    • An understanding of how interior components are constructed and how materials come together in a design
    • The preferred candidate has experience working in multiple building types, primarily focused on higher education facilities, affordable housing, or civic buildings

    Additional Qualifications

    The preferred candidate is proficient in SketchUp modeling, Enscape or Twinmotion rendering, and the Adobe Creative Suite; has their NCIDQ Certification, LEED Accreditation, and/or WELL Accreditation, or is actively pursuing one or more certifications; and is experienced in working with BOMA Standards

    Applicant Instructions

    Applicants should email their cover letter, resume, and portfolio to resumes@ffadesign.com.

    Benefits at FFA include

    • Fully covered individual medical and dental insurance
    • Voluntary vision insurance
    • Disability insurance
    • Pre-tax Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
    • 401K Savings Plan with a discretionary employer match
    • Pre-tax transportation and phone stipends
    • Experience-based paid time off program
    • Paid volunteer time
    • Paid holidays and one flex holiday
    • Company-sponsored continuing education
    • Professional licensure and certification assistance

    Compensation

    At FFA, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This allows your compensation to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $70,000 and $80,000 and will depend on your skills, qualifications, and years of experience. This is a salaried position.

    Notification to Applicants

    FFA Architecture and Interiors is an equal-opportunity employer committed to inclusion and diversity. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, mental or physical disability, age, genetic information, veteran or active military status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, domestic partnership, family status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

    FFA will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants who inquire about, disclose, or discuss their compensation or that of other applicants.

    FFA is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities. If you need accommodation during the hiring process, please contact erunning@ffadesign.com.

  • Meet the 2025 Member IMPACT Award Winners

    Meet the 2025 Member IMPACT Award Winners

    We heard your feedback and brought back our member awards for 2025. These awards honor our members who have made a positive impact on our community and profession. Nominations come directly from you, our chapter members, and the awardees are recognized at the annual Design Excellence Awards event.

    Join us in congratulating our 2025 Member IMPACT award winners! These inspiring leaders who embody the heart of our mission—to elevate interior design and the people who shape it:

    Alison Hake

    It is an honor to recognize Alison Hake, IIDA, whose work and leadership so beautifully embody the mission of our organization—to connect our design community, amplify our impact, and elevate our profession. As an Interior Designer with the University of Oregon’s Design Services team, Alison’s influence reaches far beyond the spaces she designs. She manages a wide range of campus projects—from classrooms and labs to offices and collaborative environments—all united by a deep commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and belonging. Every space she touches reflects her belief that great design serves people first.

    Alison is a natural leader who leads through empathy, collaboration, and quiet strength. She has a gift for bringing diverse voices together—architects, administrators, contractors—and creating trust and shared purpose. Within her team, she models how design can be both rigorous and compassionate, inspiring those around her to see their work as part of something bigger. Beyond her role at the University, Alison is a dedicated mentor and advocate, supporting emerging designers and championing the value of design in our broader community.

    Her presence—steady, thoughtful, and inclusive—has strengthened the fabric of Oregon’s design community. Alison’s work reminds us that impact isn’t always loud; sometimes it’s found in the quiet leadership that transforms teams, spaces, and lives.


    Casey Martin

    In just five years at George Fox University, Casey Martin, IIDA, has transformed what it means to teach, mentor, and champion the next generation of designers. As Assistant Professor of Interior Design, Casey has elevated the program’s visibility, rigor, and connection to Oregon’s design community—ultimately leading George Fox to be named IIDA’s 2024 Campus Center of the Year. Her leadership is grounded in purpose and community, bridging the gap between academia and practice in ways that tangibly prepare students for professional success.

    Through her signature initiative, The STUDIO, Casey empowers students to work directly with real clients—designing spaces that serve the community while learning the human impact of design. And her dedication goes far beyond the classroom. Casey personally ensures her students experience the energy of Oregon’s design community—often renting a van herself to drive 15 or more students to IIDA events, from the Student Charette to the Design Excellence Awards tonight.

    Casey’s energy, compassion, and authenticity have inspired a generation of emerging designers and strengthened the connection between education and professional practice in Oregon. She is shaping not only her students—but the very future of interior design in our state.


    Jake Wesolowski

    Jake’s IIDA story is anything but conventional—and that’s exactly what makes it so remarkable. Though not a designer by training, Jake found his way into Oregon’s design community through his career as an accountant in the architecture and interiors world—and through his deep support for his wife’s work in interior design. What began as a supportive gesture quickly grew into something transformative. Jake discovered his own sense of purpose and belonging within IIDA, and ultimately stepped into the role of Vice President of Finance—a position that would leave a lasting mark on the chapter.

    With vision and heart, Jake redefined what financial leadership looks like in a creative organization. He didn’t just balance the books; he built systems for sustainable growth, taught others the power of financial literacy, and helped ensure that IIDA Oregon’s advocacy efforts are supported by long-term financial strategy. His work has strengthened the chapter’s foundation—creating new revenue streams and empowering future leaders to see money as a tool for impact, not a barrier.

    Now serving as a Chapter Advisor, Jake continues to mentor others and champion the inclusive, community-driven spirit that defines IIDA Oregon. His story is a testament to how anyone—regardless of title or background—can make a profound difference. Jake’s leadership reminds us that when we bring diverse perspectives together, we build a stronger, more resilient design community for all.


    IIDA Oregon has presented dozens of member awards over the years, please view our past awards and award winners below:


    Legacy Award

    The Legacy Award recognizes and honors a person, company or organization whose contributions have advanced the Interior Design profession and enriched Interior Design in Oregon. They show exemplified traits with values held by the IIDA Oregon Chapter, including advocacy, mentorship, design innovation and sustainable leadership.

    Congratulations to the 2021 winner of the Legacy Award: Roberta Pennington! Learn more about Roberta in her video feature:

    Film credit: Videos filmed and edited by Casey Braunger | Quanta Collectiv

    Roberta Pennington, IIDA, NCIDQ | Ankrom Moisan | Senior Associate/Interior Designer

    • View the 2020 winner here!
    • View the 2019 winner here!
    • View the 2018 winner here!
    • View the 2017 winner here!
    • View the 2016 winner here!
    • View the 2015 winner here!

    Emerging Professional Award

    Emerging Professional Award
    The Emerging Professional Award recognizes and honors a junior design leader who has advanced the Interior Design profession and enriched Interior Design in Oregon through their hard work and passion for design.

    Congratulations to the 2022 winner of the Emerging Professional Award: Jenna Mogstad! Learn more about Jenna in her video feature.

    Film credit: Videos filmed and edited by Casey Braunger | Quanta Collectiv

    Jenna Mogstad, Associate IIDA | Ankrom Moisan Architects

    • View the 2021 winner here!
    • View the 2020 winner here!
    • View the 2019 winner here!
    • View the 2018 winner here!
    • View the 2017 winner here!

    Industry Award

    The IIDA Oregon Chapter continually advances by the dedication, support and leadership of our community. The Industry Award recognizes and honors an industry professional, company or organization whose contributions have advanced the Interior Design profession and enriched Interior Design in Oregon. The recipient of this award has exemplified traits with values held by the IIDA Oregon Chapter, including sustainable leadership, knowledgevalue & support, and community involvement. Congratulations to the 2020 winner of the Industry Award: Beth Gish, Industry IIDA, Chapter Advisor of Mohawk Group! Learn more about Beth in her video feature.

    Film credit: Videos filmed and edited by Bryn Silverman.

    Beth Gish, Industry IIDA, Chapter Advisor | Mohawk Group

  • Meet the 2025 Design Excellence Awards Jurors

    Meet the 2025 Design Excellence Awards Jurors

    After a national search, IIDA Oregon is proud to welcome three esteemed jurors who represent creativity, leadership, and design excellence on a national scale:

    Claudia Lofton

    IDA, RID, LEED Green Associate — Senior Associate & Director of Interior Design, HASTINGS Architecture (Nashville, TN)

    As Director of Interior Design at HASTINGS, Claudia Lofton brings award-winning experience crafting spaces that balance creativity, intent, and client vision. Guided by a “service first” philosophy, she has shaped the firm’s success through work with clients such as AEG Presents, William Morris Entertainment, Warner Music Nashville, Warner Chappell Music, and United Talent Agency.

    Claudia believes design has the power to transform lives, enhancing health, creativity, and connection in the spaces where people spend most of their time. Her approach integrates biophilic principles, sustainable materials, and health-focused outcomes, demonstrated in her leadership on two of Tennessee’s first WELL-certified projects.

    An advocate and mentor, Claudia has served as VP of Advocacy and President of IIDA Tennessee. Outside the studio, she enjoys Nashville’s food scene, traveling, and spending time with her husband, son Oliver, and their rescue chihuahua, Phyllis.


    Derek Chen

    CID, Assoc. IIDA, Fitwel Amb, LSSYB — Project Manager, LPA (Irvine, CA)

    Derek is a Southern California–based Designer and Project Manager with over 15 years of experience guiding projects from concept through completion. His career spans boutique studios and global firms, and he now works at an award-winning architecture and design firm recognized as a leader in sustainability. Passionate about creating environments that balance functionality with design integrity, he brings a detail-driven, client-focused approach to every project.

    Beyond practice, Derek has served on IIDA Southern California boards, most recently as Co-VP of Student Affairs on the Executive Board. He is also an Adjunct Professor at a local community college, where he enjoys mentoring and giving back to the next generation of designers. Guided by the belief that design has the power to impact and change lives, he brings purpose and conviction to both his professional practice and his community involvement.


    Stacey Crumbaker

    IIDA, Assoc. AIA, ALEP — Associate Principal, Mahlum Architects (Seattle, WA)

    Fueled by curiosity and a deep commitment to equity, Stacey Crumbaker, IIDA, Assoc. AIA, ALEP uses design as a tool to foster belonging and reflect community values. As an Associate Principal at Mahlum Architects, she leads transformative work in educational environments across the Pacific Northwest. She is a passionate advocate for the interior design profession, advancing regulatory recognition, leadership pathways, and interdisciplinary collaboration to strengthen and elevate the field. Bridging research, policy, and practice, her work shapes inclusive, learner-centric environments and positions design as a force for civic impact.


  • 2025 IIDA Oregon Letter from the Chapter President

    2025 IIDA Oregon Letter from the Chapter President

    Hello,

    And welcome to a RADIANT new board year for IIDA! I’m Sondra Jakubowski, your new IIDA Oregon Chapter President for 2025–2026 (and sometimes cruise director for this ship!). I’m excited to help usher this team into a new year with the goal of supporting our incredible community in building great content, events, and programs that make an impact on you — our interior design professionals, emerging professionals, industry members, educators, and students.

    For those who joined us at our sold-out Annual Celebration, you know we showed up in style — sequins, glitter, and plenty of gold. But more than attire, RADIANT represents the bright future we’re stepping into together.

    Here’s what I’m most excited about in the year ahead:

    1. Our Team: 32 inspiring, dynamic members from across Oregon — the biggest board we’ve ever had! We even have representation from Bend and Eugene.
    2. Our Advocacy Efforts: We’re preparing for round two of our bill to recognize Commercial Interior Design in Oregon during the 2026 session. We’re collaborating with AIA, ASID, CIDQ, and IIDA HQ — and we’ll need your help too. Stay tuned!
    3. Our Mission: This year, we’ve refined our mission statement to reflect our values more inclusively and to position advocacy at the center of what we do. (See below for the latest and greatest )
    4. Updated Annual Sponsorship Package: We’re refining our approach to better align sponsor dollars with what you value — ensuring your support shows up clearly at our events and through our communications.
    5. Our Events & Resources: We’re tailoring events to support networking, education, and career growth — plus launching a new website and refreshed graphics in 2026 to make information and advocacy updates more accessible. Check out our full list of events here.

    All of this is no small feat. After all, we’re all volunteers, balancing this work alongside our professional lives. Did I also mention I’m a mom of two incredible kids? It’s a lot, but it’s achievable when it’s done as a team.

    Speaking of our team, this summer our board gathered and reflected on the values that define us. The most frequently mentioned? Community, Connection, Growth, and Teamwork. Building on those, we drafted our refreshed mission statement:

    IIDA Oregon Chapter – Updated Mission Statement
    Connecting our design community • Amplifying our impact • Elevating the profession

    The IIDA Oregon Chapter strengthens the interior design community by fostering connection, cultivating belonging, and advancing professional recognition and career growth. We champion the vital role of interior design in shaping the built environment and its positive impact on the health, safety, and well-being of individuals and communities.

    \

    Community is truly part of our DNA. To build on this, I want to share a quick personal story. 

    When I was working as a commercial interior designer (let’s say several years ago so I don’t feel too old ), I landed at a firm where I was the only interiors person alongside 40+ architects. Although the team worked well together, I often felt isolated. There was no one to bounce ideas off, no mentor to turn to, and no female leaders to look up to. I felt very alone.

    Eventually, I made the difficult decision to leave the A+D side and transition into an industry role — and that’s when I reengaged with IIDA. I started showing up and volunteering again. Almost immediately, I realized that the community I had been craving — the people to ask questions, the leadership to look up to — had been there all along.

    For me, IDA became a space for community, not competition. A place to connect, to belong, and to lift each other up. It offers the team, support, and leadership development we don’t always get when we need it most in our careers — and in life. That’s the path of belonging and connection we’re committed to continuing for all of you.

    I want to end with a couple well-deserved thank-yous!

    • To our current IIDA OR chapter board: thank you for your commitment to improving and impacting this community. You inspire me daily with your incredible talent and big hearts.
    • To my team at PacificWRO and MillerKnoll: thank you for your support and for being fierce advocates for both the profession and IIDA.
    • And last, but certainly not least, to my family: I could not do this without the support of my amazing husband, Tim Jakubowski, and our rockstar girls, Mara and Ada — for whom I do all of this work.

    And thank YOU for being part of this incredible community. We look forward to a year of connection, amplification, and elevation — together!

    Sincerely,
    Sondra Jakubowski
    Chapter President 2025/2026

  • 2022 Design Excellence Award Winners Gallery

  • 2021 Design Excellence Award Winners Gallery

  • 2020 Design Excellence Award Winners Gallery

  • 2019 Design Excellence Award Winners Gallery