Kirk Williams
Thornton,CO
Summary
Detail-oriented interior designer with over 30 years of experience in commercial design, excelling as both a project designer and department manager for Steelcase dealers. Proven expertise in transforming client visions into functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces while effectively managing teams and projects to ensure timely delivery and client satisfaction. Eager to leverage extensive experience to serve in a coontact furniture dealership or related organization, fostering strong relationships and providing tailored design solutions that meet diverse needs. Committed to staying ahead of industry trends and continuously enhancing design strategies for optimal results.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Designer | Manager
Slate - an Elements Studio
Denver, CO
03.2023 - Current
- As part of design department restructuring, led five-person design team to enhance project outcomes and ensure alignment with client vision.
- Beta tested new pooled design approach to the salesperson/designer relationship.
- Participated in overall management strategy under Vice President of Design; working as aligned leaders to assure continuity across smaller design teams.
- Conducted regular design reviews to maintain quality standards and drive continuous improvement.
- March 2025 - Moved from having direct reports in order to develop an Ancillary Specialist role.
Design Studio Manager
Slate (formerly OfficeScapes)
Denver, CO
09.2019 - 03.2023
- Managed team of 14 designers supporting annual sales of approximately $70 million.
- Achieved design billing goal of $1-1.2 million annually.
- Responsible for hiring and training new designers.
- Managed processes from project intake through completion.
- Consistently maintained low design error rate.
- Mentored junior designers, fostering skill development and promoting best practices within the design process.
- Used CET to create images and layouts.
- Managed initial transition after merger/acquisition that began in July 2022.
Senior Project Designer
OfficeScapes
Denver, CO
06.2016 - 09.2019
- Worked directly with salespeople and clients to solve for design needs that supported business goals.
- Successfully managed multiple projects concurrently.
- Drove design specifications with major accounts in excess of $2 million per project.
- Designed projects using Configura CET and Hedberg Data Systems
- Spearheaded design process to align with client specifications and budget
Senior Project Designer
Office Outfitters & Planners
Grand Junction, CO
04.2010 - 05.2016
- Served in sales/design role for Heritage Steelcase dealer.
- Responsible for managing client relationships, mentoring other designers and working with manufacturer representatives
- Designed projects using CAP Studio/Worksheet, AutoCAD and Hedberg Data Systems
- Acted as project manager for most projects - being involved in projects from inception to close out.
- Instrumental in securing large 530+ workstation project with NREL
Interior Designer/Managing Partner
Riley & Williams Interior Design
Grand Junction, CO
04.2006 - 03.2010
- Developed space planning concepts, color palette selections and textile presentations.
- Developed key client relationships by providing design solutions that met needs and budgets without compromising quality or design intent.
- Designed floor plans, elevations, 3D perspective views and material boards for review and presentation.
- Participated in furniture selection and documentation of specifications.
- Developed client base in both hospitality and retail sectors.
- Used Microsoft Word and other software tools to create documents and other communications
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Interior Design
International Academy of Design And Technology
Kansas City, MOAssociate of Arts - Bible And Theology
Calvary Bible College
Kansas City, MOSkills
- Performance Tracking and Evaluations
- Employee Coaching and Motivation
- Project Management
- Furniture Selection and Specification
- Technical Proficiency - CET and AutoCAD
- Customer Satisfaction
- Client Needs Assessment
- Critical Thinking
- Creative Solutions
- Budgeting oversight
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Adaptability and flexibility
Accomplishments
NCIDQ Professional
California Paints Competition Winner
Certification
NCIDQ: 20855
Timeline
Designer | Manager
Slate - an Elements Studio
03.2023 - Current
Design Studio Manager
Slate (formerly OfficeScapes)
09.2019 - 03.2023
Senior Project Designer
OfficeScapes
06.2016 - 09.2019
Senior Project Designer
Office Outfitters & Planners
04.2010 - 05.2016
Interior Designer/Managing Partner
Riley & Williams Interior Design
04.2006 - 03.2010
Associate of Arts - Bible And Theology
Calvary Bible College
Associate of Applied Science - Interior Design
International Academy of Design And Technology