Hi, I’m
Melanie Courtney
San Francisco Bay Area, Ca,CA
Summary
Highly skilled and experienced Interior Design Professional with a strong combination of technical expertise and creative talent. Known for inspiring teams with a fresh and progressive design approach. Dedicated to surpassing client expectations and delivering exceptional results. Agile mindset allows for organization and thriving in fast-paced, ever-evolving environments.
Overview
28
years of professional experience
Work History
KH Interiors
Senior Residential Interior Designer
10.2020 - 12.2024
Job overview
- Managed all phases of residential interiors projects, including scope estimation of hours, project set-up, establishing the creative design direction, conceptual design through construction administration.
- Created engaging presentation materials tailored for each client, leading to high approval rates within the initial project stages.
- Developed bespoke custom millwork and furniture designs for multi-million-dollar new construction and remodel projects
- Coordinated comprehensive construction drawing sets and specification documents for construction, to include FFE schedules.
- Played a key role in leading/delegating project teams, supporting the successful delivery of projects on time and within budget, using Asana.
- Oversaw the selection and procurement of FF&E, managing budgets up to $2.5M, negotiating with suppliers and GC's to secure optimal pricing.
- Spear-headed implementation of internal design systems, standards and processes resulting in an increase of productivity, and shorter project lifecycles.
- Proven ability to solve complex design challenges with resourceful, creative solutions, maintaining budget and schedule integrity.
- Maintained an impeccable track record with zero errors while at KHI.
Interior Motions (CRI)
Senior Interior Designer
08.2019 - 05.2020
Job overview
- Directed creative furniture initiatives for commercial client accounts, managing all aspects from furniture concepts to installation
- Designed tailored furniture solution packages to align with client branding, spatial needs, and budget parameters
- Spearheaded a $2M furniture project for College of Alameda's Fine Arts building, overseeing concept development, budgets, furniture sourcing, space planning, coordination of BIM specifications, and project schedule
COG Now PeopleSpace
Account Executive/Designer
07.2016 - 01.2019
Job overview
- Generated $7 million in sales with a 27% gross profit margin over 2.5 years.
- Developed new business relationships with corporate clients using a solutions-based and consultative sales approach.
- Managed a growing client base by identifying/positioning on-going sales opportunities in conjunction with potential new business.
- Shared in the design responsibilities for every project, to include drafting of furniture layouts, specifications of systems and ancillary furniture, coordination of bill of materials for procurement
JLL (Genentech)
Space Planner
07.2015 - 01.2016
Job overview
- Partnered with architects and workplace strategists to enhance global office space efficiency through effective programming
- Executed space planning strategies to optimize functionality and employee productivity for a progressive biotech company
- Collaborated with stakeholders and end users to implement new working environments and workplace strategies through the use of contract furniture standards, and ArchiBus planning
SideMark
Account Executive / Project Designer
02.2012 - 04.2015
Job overview
- Consistently exceeded sales goals by 25-30% through a consultative design approach, and use of tailored marketing materials for a high-profile healthcare client
- Developed optimal design and product solutions in AutoCAD and 2020 for competitive bid RFPs, and existing corporate clientele.
- Responsible for owning and enhancing business relationships with new and existing high-profile corporate accounts.
designM (Freelance)
Senior Architectural Interior Designer
06.2009 - 02.2012
Job overview
- Led design consultations, overseeing programming, space planning, and full project execution
- Delivered comprehensive interior design services, including detailed construction documentation and bespoke millwork solutions tailored to enhance each project's unique vision
- Staged luxury homes to maximize market appeal
- Provided expert color and art consultation to curate cohesive interior experiences
- Conducted site surveys, created as-built drawings, and prepared construction documents for permitting
Studio Schiketanz Architects
Senior Architectural Interior Designer
03.2003 - 06.2009
Job overview
- Specialized in high-end, sustainable custom residential and commercial projects, crafting innovative and environmentally conscious designs that elevate both aesthetics and functionality.
- Directed all phases of the design process, from conceptual development to execution, ensuring seamless space planning, material selection, and project coordination.
- Developed custom millwork solutions, tailored to client specifications and financial considerations.
- Conducted site surveys, created as-built drawings, and prepared construction documents for permitting
- Designed detailed finish plans and schedules for materials, plumbing, and lighting fixtures.
- Managed project timelines and interior budgets, ensuring seamless execution from concept to completion.
One Workplace
Studio Designer
03.1998 - 07.2003
MG West
Project Designer
10.1996 - 03.1998
Education
California State UniversitySacramento
B.F.A. from Interior Design
California State UniversitySacramento
A.A. from Studio Art
Skills
- Residential & Commercial Interior Design
- Project Management
- Space Planning
- Schematic Design
- AutoCAD, CAP 2020
- Asana, Slack
- Construction Documentation & Administration
- Bid Negotiation & Contracts
Publications (Credits: Studio Schicketanz)
Dwell, Architectural Digest, California Homes, and New York Times.
Timeline
Senior Residential Interior Designer
KH Interiors
10.2020 - 12.2024
Senior Interior Designer
Interior Motions (CRI)
08.2019 - 05.2020
Account Executive/Designer
COG Now PeopleSpace
07.2016 - 01.2019
Space Planner
JLL (Genentech)
07.2015 - 01.2016
Account Executive / Project Designer
SideMark
02.2012 - 04.2015
Senior Architectural Interior Designer
designM (Freelance)
06.2009 - 02.2012
Senior Architectural Interior Designer
Studio Schiketanz Architects
03.2003 - 06.2009
Studio Designer
One Workplace
03.1998 - 07.2003
Project Designer
MG West
10.1996 - 03.1998
California State University
B.F.A. from Interior Design
California State University
A.A. from Studio Art
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