Mara Overbey
Interior Design
Evanston,IL
Summary
Interior Designer and Project Leader experienced in guiding projects from concept through construction administration across multidisciplinary environments. Skilled in space planning, interior architecture, construction documentation, furniture specification and procurement, and finish development. Recognized for thoughtful design solutions, strong collaboration with architects and consultants, and clear client communication. Experienced working on multidisciplinary projects including higher education facilities, healthcare environments, tenant improvements, hospitality spaces, religious institutions, commercial interiors, and residential developments. Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while balancing program requirements, budgets, schedules, and design vision. Passionate about creating environments that enhance how people live, work, learn, and connect while supporting thoughtful, community-centered design.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Project Manager / Interior Designer
SHB Studio
01.2024 - Current
- Lead interior design efforts from concept through construction administration for residential and boutique commercial projects
- Develop interior design concepts, space planning strategies, and design narratives aligned with project goals
- Produce detailed drawing packages including plans, elevations, finish schedules, and interior documentation supporting construction
- Manage FF&E selection, specification development, and procurement coordination while tracking budgets and lead times
- Coordinate with architects, contractors, and fabricators to maintain design intent and resolve field conditions
- Present design concepts and finish palettes to clients while guiding design decisions throughout the project lifecycle
- Conduct site visits and review submittals and product samples to ensure specification compliance
- Led cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and within scope.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, ensuring alignment with project goals and budget constraints.
- Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
Lead Interior Designer
Fulton Developers
01.2022 - 01.2024
- Led interior design development for multi-family and residential projects
- Developed space plans, interior architecture details, and finish palettes for large-scale developments
- Produced CAD documentation including plans, RCPs, millwork drawings, and finish schedules
- Managed FF&E selections, vendor coordination, specification writing, and procurement logistics
- Served as primary client contact leading presentations and coordinating design reviews
- Oversaw project phases including design development, construction documentation, site visits, and installation
- Led design projects from concept to completion, ensuring alignment with client vision and specifications.
- Conducted client presentations to effectively communicate design concepts and gather feedback for refinements.
- Managed budgeting and resource allocation, improving project delivery timelines while maintaining high standards.
- Researched emerging trends in interior design, integrating contemporary styles into project proposals for competitive advantage.
Design Coordinator / Material Specialist
CannonDesign
01.2017 - 01.2022
- Supported multidisciplinary teams on healthcare, higher education, workplace, and civic projects
- Contributed to material research, finish development, and interior design documentation for institutional environments
- Developed material boards used in client presentations and design workshops
- Assisted with finish schedules, specifications, and material matrices for construction documentation
- Coordinated with vendors and manufacturers to source products aligned with project performance and sustainability goals
- Coordinated design project timelines and deliverables to ensure on-time completion.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative design solutions.
Design Resource Coordinator/Interior Designer
VOA Associates
01.2013 - 01.2017
- Prepared FF&E schedules, specifications, and procurement documentation
- Developed presentation boards highlighting materials, finishes, and furniture selections
- Coordinated with architects, contractors, and vendors to ensure documentation accuracy
- Managed vendor relationships, samples, and resource library organization
- Participated in site visits, punch lists, and installation coordination
- Coordinated resource allocation to enhance project efficiency and meet deadlines.
- Developed and maintained schedules for multiple projects, optimizing resource utilization.
- Facilitated communication between departments to ensure alignment on project goals.
- Implemented tracking systems for resource inventory, enhancing accuracy and availability.
Education
Associate of Science - Interior Design
Purdue University
Lafayette, IN06.2001
Bachelor of Arts - Art History & Painting
Ball State University
Muncie, IN05.1998
Skills
- Space Planning & Interior Architecture
- Construction Documentation
- Furniture Specification & Procurement
- Material & Finish Development
- Client Presentations & Workshops
- Vendor & Dealer Coordination
- Architect & Consultant collaboration
- Construction Administration
Certification
NCIDQ Certification — In Progress
Timeline
Project Manager / Interior Designer
SHB Studio
01.2024 - Current
Lead Interior Designer
Fulton Developers
01.2022 - 01.2024
Design Coordinator / Material Specialist
CannonDesign
01.2017 - 01.2022
Design Resource Coordinator/Interior Designer
VOA Associates
01.2013 - 01.2017
Associate of Science - Interior Design
Purdue University
Bachelor of Arts - Art History & Painting
Ball State University