# Karin Pardella, NCIDQ, CID, IIDA > Senior Design Manager | Retail & Workplace Design | Multi-Site Rollouts & Brand-Driven Environments | Financial Services Location: San Francisco Bay Area, United States Profile: https://flows.cv/karinpardellancidqcidiida I am an NCIDQ and CID certified Interior Designer guiding projects from concept through construction across retail and commercial environments. I bring deep expertise in programming, space planning, brand standards development, schematic design review, and construction documentation, creating functional, compliant, and brand aligned spaces that elevate the user experience and support business objectives. My work centers on translating brand vision and operational requirements into scalable design solutions across multi-site portfolios. I enjoy collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, facilitating stakeholder and user group meetings to clarify functional needs, and transforming those insights into thoughtful layouts that balance experience, performance, and consistency. I have led projects ranging from large capital improvements to enterprise-wide design initiatives, partnering closely with architects, engineers, consultants, and construction teams to ensure alignment from early planning through field execution. I am well versed in accessibility requirements, building codes, and the integration of furniture, fixtures, and equipment planning into cohesive, well-coordinated environments. My strengths include managing complex stakeholder relationships, refining architectural and engineering documentation, and upholding brand standards across multiple locations while adapting to local market and code requirements. I am passionate about creating environments that are both visually compelling and operationally sound. While I am proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office, my greatest strength lies in connecting people, process, and design to deliver spaces that work as beautifully as they look. ## Work Experience ### Sr. Design Manager @ Charles Schwab Jan 2024 – Present | San Francisco, California, United States Senior Design Manager overseeing design projects that bring retail spaces to life and reflect the company’s brand and strategy. Serves as the main point of contact for retail branch projects for the West Coast, managing everything from early concepts through final implementation. Handles space planning and design direction for new locations, renovations, and expansions, covering interiors and exteriors. Prepares and shares design ideas with senior leadership in clear, visual, and engaging ways. Works closely with architects, engineers, and vendors—selecting partners, negotiating agreements, and reviewing their work to make sure it meets standards and project goals. Reviews design documents and offers feedback to keep projects on track and in line with guidelines. Builds strong connections with cross-functional teams to support smooth project delivery. Offers expertise in choosing finishes, furniture, and artwork that create cohesive and inviting spaces. Helps shape and maintain brand standards and design guidelines so projects stay consistent and true to the brand. Keeps stakeholders informed with regular updates on project progress, milestones, and any challenges along the way. Represents the design team, corporate real estate, and clients with professionalism, always focused on delivering spaces that support business needs and create a positive experience for customers. ### Associate, Architectural Design & Development @ First Republic Bank Jan 2019 – Jan 2023 | San Francisco Bay Area Directed programming and planning for construction projects from needs assessment through post-occupancy. Facilitated user group meetings to assess functional requirements and translate them into optimized schematic layouts. Reviewed architectural and engineering documentation for compliance with brand and accessibility standards. Managed FF&E and medical equipment integration where applicable, partnering with vendors and consultants. Key Highlights: Delivered $4M, 19,000 sq. ft. tenant improvement in Walnut Creek, CA and $1M, 6,200 sq. ft. tenant improvement in San Diego, CA. ### Founder/CEO @ Form & Function Interior Design Jan 2014 – Jan 2018 | Walnut Creek Established and managed a commercial and residential design firm overseeing projects from concept to installation. Led programming, space planning, FF&E procurement, and construction document development for diverse client types. Designed branded environments and ensured compliance with building codes, ADA, and client brand standards. Key Highlights: Directed tenant/building improvements for 51,000 sq. ft. Desco Plaza; rebranded Lenox Homes corporate offices, boosting market visibility. ### Senior Interior Designer @ Consolidated Interiors, Inc. Jan 2003 – Jan 2014 | Walnut Creek, CA Created designs aligning space planning with budget and project goals. Standardized design and furniture guidelines across multiple corporate locations. Coordinated with vendors to select finishes, furnishings, and upgrades for relocations and renovations. Key Highlights: Managed California-wide expansion projects for Prudential Realty; achieved cost savings by delivering projects on time and within budget. ## Education ### Bachelor of Fine Arts - BFA in Interior Architecture & Design Academy of Art University ### Associate of Arts - AA in Interior Design in Interior Design FIDM ## Contact & Social - LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/karin-pardella --- Source: https://flows.cv/karinpardellancidqcidiida JSON Resume: https://flows.cv/karinpardellancidqcidiida/resume.json Last updated: 2026-04-13