Architectural Principal

Designblendz is seeking a Principal – (Associate Studio Leader) to lead our growing Residential & Multi-Housing Studio. You will provide design direction, mentor staff, maintain quality and efficiency, and support business development in key housing markets. Strategic Planning & Studio GrowthChampion the firm’s Vision, Mission, and Core Values within a housing-focused studio.Identify growth opportunities in key sectors such as urban infill, mixed-use residential, workforce housing, student living, senior living, and large-scale multifamily.Support business strategy development, assisting in market positioning, competitive analysis, and outreach to existing and emerging housing partners.Participate in leadership meetings to align studio performance with firmwide financial and cultural goals.Ensure adherence to project workflow standards, schedule management, budgeting, and operational efficiency within the residential studio. Team Development & LeadershipMentor junior and mid-level designers by providing technical guidance specific to residential and multifamily best practices.Support hiring, onboarding, and integration of new team members into the residential studio workflow.Foster a learning-oriented studio culture, encouraging practice innovation, continuing education, and knowledge-sharing.Guide staff in career development paths tailored to advancement in housing design expertise.Contribute performance insights and resource planning to leadership discussions. Licensed Architect strongly preferred; ability to sign/seal drawings required.12+ years of experience in architectural practice, with significant experience in residential and multi-housing sectors.Strong knowledge of multifamily codes, residential zoning, wood construction types (III, V), podium construction, and efficient unit planning.Proven leadership experience managing teams, clients, and multiple housing projects simultaneously.Excellent communication, client engagement, and stakeholder management skills.Experience in business development within residential markets preferred.