Position Overview

The Architectural Designer is responsible for leading the creative design of extraordinary custom residences from initial concept through Design Development. Working closely with the Design Director, this role transforms client aspirations, site opportunities, and design direction into thoughtful architectural solutions that seamlessly integrate architecture and interior living.

This individual serves as the primary design lead on assigned projects, guiding the creative vision from the overall architectural form to the spatial experience and interior architecture of the home. Collaborating closely with Project Managers, consultants, and the design team, the Architectural Designer ensures each project reflects the firm's commitment to timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship, and homes that are both beautiful and deeply personal.

About Ralston

Ralston Architects is a globally recognized residential architecture firm known for exceptional modern design and a discreet, highly personalized client experience. We create extraordinary custom residences for discerning clients by seamlessly integrating architecture, interiors, and landscape into one holistic vision.

As trusted advisors throughout the design and construction process, we guide clients through a thoughtful and highly collaborative journey, delivering residences of exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty. Our unwavering commitment to excellence extends through construction, ensuring each design is executed with precision, care, and meticulous attention to detail.

Responsibilities

Design Leadership

• Lead the creative design process from programming through Design Development.

• Develop innovative site plans, floor plans, elevations, massing studies, and three-dimensional design concepts.

• Design cohesive architectural and interior architectural experiences, thoughtfully considering circulation, spatial relationships, natural light, materiality, millwork, and key interior moments.

• Explore multiple design solutions that respond to each client's lifestyle, vision, budget, and the unique characteristics of the site.

• Maintain the integrity of the design vision throughout every phase of the project.

Collaboration

• Partner closely with the Design Director to refine and execute the architectural vision for each project.

• Collaborate with Project Managers to balance design excellence with project schedules, budgets, and constructability.

Client Experience

• Prepare and participate in client design presentations.

• Clearly communicate design concepts and the rationale behind design decisions.

• Translate client feedback into thoughtful architectural and interior design solutions.

• Support the creation of graphically compelling presentations, renderings, and visual storytelling.

Client Design Quality

• Review drawings and models to ensure design intent is maintained throughout project development.

• Coordinate with the production team as projects transition into Construction Documentation.

• Contribute to the development of architectural standards, presentation graphics, and design workflows

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Architecture.

• 6–10+ years of architectural experience.

• Extensive experience designing luxury custom residential projects.

• Strong conceptual design, space planning, and interior architectural design skills.

• Advanced proficiency in Revit, SketchUp, Enscape, and Adobe Creative Suite.

• Strong understanding of residential construction methods and detailing.

• Excellent verbal, graphic, and written communication skills

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is an exceptional designer who sees architecture and interiors as a unified experience. They are passionate about crafting homes that are both timeless and deeply personal, confident leading projects independently, and thrive in a collaborative studio where thoughtful design is at the center of every decision.

Why Ralston

• Opportunity to design extraordinary custom residences for discerning clients.

• Significant creative ownership within a highly talented, design-driven studio.

• Hybrid work environment based in Chantilly, Virginia, with a competitive salary range of $110,000–$140,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications, plus a comprehensive benefits package.