Emily Ablaza
Denver,Colorado
Summary
Interior Designer and Manager offering 11-year history of designing innovative, functional spaces focused on creative aesthetic design. Experienced design leader, skilled in writing proposals, delivering client presentations, creating construction documents, and building key relationships to grow client base.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Interior Designer
FBC Remodel
Denver, Co
01.2024 - Current
- Conducted site visits and evaluations to ensure adherence to design standards and client expectations.
- Managed all phases of the design process including programming, space planning, material selection, and construction documentation.
- Built strong client relationships through clear communication channels and regular updates on project progress.
- Enhanced client satisfaction by delivering innovative and functional interior design solutions for residential design projects.
- Designed floor plans, elevations, 3D perspective views, and material boards for review and presentation.
- Determined personalized needs, tastes and design preferences through thorough client consultations.
- Worked closely with project managers and construction team to improve project coordination, completing projects on time and within budget.
Design Manager
Thomas James Homes
Denver, Co
02.2023 - 12.2023
- Oversaw all aspects of the Design Department using technical expertise
- Managed workflow, training, and development for the Lead and Associate Designers
- Implemented a new process for creating Design Packages for production homes
- Conducted meetings with homeowners to aid in their selection of materials and finishes
- Collaborated with Sales, Construction, and Purchasing teams to ensure seamless workflow
- Managed the build out of the TJH Design Studio Showroom
- Developed and communicated industry-leading creative concepts consistent with brand
- Assisted in the implementation of VR Tours and Exterior Renderings.
Lead Designer
Thomas James Homes
Redwood City, Ca & Denver
07.2020 - 02.2023
- Responsible for managing client meetings and expectations
- Managed design budgets for hard finishes on Production and Custom homes
- Developed and improved design process, homeowner experience, and upgrade material offerings
- Met with clients to develop and coordinate detailed design concepts that meet creativity, functionality and client needs
- Functioned as a client contact while managing expectations and team communication
- Created Construction Documents using AutoCAD
- Managed junior designers, providing guidance and mentorship for professional growth.
Senior Interior Designer
Sonder Inc.
San Francisco, Ca
02.2020 - 06.2020
- Responsible for managing all facets of the design and support team consisting of two junior designers and six remote stylists, assigning tasks, assessing the performance of team members, and ensuring all the provided specifications regarding the designs are followed
- Worked cross-functionally with the merchandising team to procure new FF&E to be stocked in the company's warehouse
- Worked cross-functionally with the expansion team to design short term rentals and hotels in Europe and the United Kingdom
- Designed and implemented systems and guidelines to enhance efficiency, smooth project workflow, and improved cross-departmental communication
- Spearheaded creative direction for over 15 short term residential apartment buildings and hotels by selecting the inspiration, approved FF&E, and paint colors
- Conducted training sessions with the team of designers and educated them on the industry's best practices to ensure seamless execution of the operational activities.
Intermediate Interior Designer
Sonder Inc.
San Francisco, Ca
04.2017 - 02.2020
- Responsible for discussing briefs with the team members, delivering design ideas, sourcing products, and preparing drawings
- Formulated designs which are practical, aesthetic and conducive to the requirements and expectations
- Collaborated with team members and all key point of contacts through all stages of the design process from conception to completion
- Reviewed the Interior Designers' work to ensure it followed brand standards and was functional.
- Managed budgets and timelines effectively to deliver projects on schedule and within budget constraints.
Elite Interior Design Manager
Decorist
San Francisco, Ca
01.2017 - 12.2017
- Responsible for providing creative strategies, mentoring and coaching team members, attending client meetings, assigning tasks, and ensuring timely delivery of assigned projects
- Managed the Elite Interior Design Projects from beginning to end including, matching designers to clients, checking in on designer, ensuring on-time project completion, reviewing and editing designs before submission
- Planned, designed and furnished interiors of residential spaces using AutoCAD and SketchUp
- Ensured client satisfaction during concept, development, and presentation of finished designs
- Created concept and 2D final renderings using Photoshop for clients based on sourced items
- Designed and implemented the Sunset Smart House in Sonoma, Ca
- That was featured in Sunset Home Magazine.
Interior Designer
Bella Casa Home Staging
San Francisco, Ca
06.2013 - 02.2017
- Responsible for attending client meetings, selecting FF&E, styling for photo shoots and ensuring timely delivery of assigned projects
- Attended client meetings to discuss the overall design and feel that would be brought into the home
- Selected paint colors and light fixtures to clients and Realtors
- Selected and purchased furniture, art, bedding, and accessories for each individual home
- Managed the jr designers and moving crew on installations and removals.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Interior Design
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, Ca05.2013
Skills
- Leadership
- AutoCAD
- Google Sketchup
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Excellent Communication Skills
- Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- Analytical Thinking
- Team Management
- Strong Attention to Detail
- Space Planning
- Customer Service
- Autodesk Revit
- Chief Architect
- Construction documentation
Websites
References
References available upon request
Timeline
Senior Interior Designer
FBC Remodel
01.2024 - Current
Design Manager
Thomas James Homes
02.2023 - 12.2023
Lead Designer
Thomas James Homes
07.2020 - 02.2023
Senior Interior Designer
Sonder Inc.
02.2020 - 06.2020
Intermediate Interior Designer
Sonder Inc.
04.2017 - 02.2020
Elite Interior Design Manager
Decorist
01.2017 - 12.2017
Interior Designer
Bella Casa Home Staging
06.2013 - 02.2017
Bachelor of Science - Interior Design
San Francisco State University