Kelsey Higgins
Enoree,SC
Summary
Architectural professional with solid history of creating functional and aesthetically pleasing designs. Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while fostering team collaboration and ensuring timely delivery. Known for adaptability and proactive approach, consistently meeting client expectations and project requirements.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Sr. Architectural Designer
Denny’s Corporate Headquarters
Spartanburg, SC
12.2018 - Current
- Streamlined design processes through implementation of advanced software tools, increasing efficiency and accuracy in deliverables.
- Conducted site assessments and feasibility studies to inform design decisions, optimizing project outcomes for clients.
- Presented innovative design concepts to stakeholders, effectively communicating ideas and securing project approvals.
- Oversaw construction documentation preparation, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and best practices.
- Worked closely with multi-disciplinary team to design commercial projects nationwide.
- Researched building codes and requirements and applied to design planning.
- Assisted in navigating complex permitting processes, leading to timely approvals and minimized delays.
- Strengthened team collaboration by actively participating in brainstorming sessions, providing constructive feedback on design ideas from colleagues.
- Resolved construction conflicts by working closely with contractors, engineers, and other consultants to find effective solutions that maintained design integrity.
- Coached newly hired employees and interns while observing progress and delegating tasks.
- Reviewed technical drawings developed by CAD technicians and drafters.
- Researched materials to determine appropriate selection for projects.
- Collaborated with vendors to ensure sufficient inventory to support pipeline.
- Attended team meetings to resolve technical and project issues and review project schedules.
Design Consultant
Closets By Design
Drayton, SC
08.2021 - 12.2023
- Developed innovative design solutions for custom closet systems to enhance client satisfaction.
- Conducted site assessments to ensure optimal space utilization and design feasibility.
- Led project management efforts, coordinating timelines and resources for successful installations.
- Delivered presentations to clients, effectively communicating design concepts and benefits.
- Managed multiple concurrent projects while meeting strict deadlines and maintaining attention to detail.
Design Consultant
Clayton Tile
Greenville, SC
04.2016 - 12.2018
- Advised clients on product selection to enhance showroom experience.
- Developed and maintained product displays to maximize visual appeal.
- Developed strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and competitor offerings to better serve clients and inform their purchasing decisions.
- Worked closely with vendors to ensure timely delivery of products while minimizing costs associated with shipping delays or damages.
Interiors Intern
Greenville Health System
Greenville, SC
05.2017 - 08.2017
- Collaborated with senior designers to create detailed floor plans and specifications.
- Participated in client meetings, taking detailed notes and providing valuable input on design solutions as needed.
- Researched materials, furnishings, and trends to support design proposals.
- Drafted floor plans using AutoCAD software for accurate representation of spatial layouts.
- Specified and selected furniture, fixtures and lighting conditions to achieve desired effects.
- Participated in site visits, gaining valuable insight into construction processes and understanding the implications of design choices on built environments.
Accounting Specialist
Mainstay Fuel Technologies
Piedmont, SC
08.2014 - 04.2016
- Input financial data and produced reports using QuickBooks.
- Maintained document control in Exact MAX.
- Managed accounts payable and receivable processes to ensure timely financial transactions.
- Reconciled monthly bank statements, identifying discrepancies and resolving issues promptly.
Education
BFA Interior Design Program - Department of Art and Design
Converse College
Spartanburg, SC05-2017
Skills
- AutoCAD proficiency
- SketchUp proficiency
- Bluebeam
- Adobe creative suite
- Microsoft office expert
- Smartsheet
- Design development
- Project management
- Construction documentation
- Training and mentoring
- Project specifications
- Value engineering
- Space planning
- Materials research and selection
- Building codes
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
Accomplishments
- Led comprehensive value‑engineering research that identified major cost drivers and implemented targeted design and material optimizations, resulting in a 22% overall reduction in construction costs without compromising quality or project performance.
- Directed a fast‑tracked restaurant remodel, reducing the required closure period from five days to two, significantly minimizing revenue loss by enabling the client to resume operations three days earlier than traditional renovation timelines.
- Served as Design Lead for a high‑visibility Miami Beach project within the historic district, collaborating with city officials to obtain approvals for exterior colors and signage, while creating a fully customized palette of finishes and curated artwork uniquely tailored to the site’s architectural character and cultural context.
- character and cultural context.
Certification
Bluebeam Certified Professional
Timeline
Design Consultant
Closets By Design
08.2021 - 12.2023
Sr. Architectural Designer
Denny’s Corporate Headquarters
12.2018 - Current
Interiors Intern
Greenville Health System
05.2017 - 08.2017
Design Consultant
Clayton Tile
04.2016 - 12.2018
Accounting Specialist
Mainstay Fuel Technologies
08.2014 - 04.2016
BFA Interior Design Program - Department of Art and Design
Converse College