If you’re an Architect, Interior Designer, Landscape Architect, or design leader looking for a recruiter who actually gets it, you’re in the right place. I’m Lee Stevens — Design Recruitment Specialist at Vivid Recruitment — and after 15+ years in the Architecture & Design recruitment game, I’ve learnt a thing or two about what makes a placement successful, what makes a partnership thrive, and what candidates really need in a competitive market.

Whether you’re job-hunting or hiring, here’s precisely what you can expect when you work with me in my little corner of the world.

A Personalised, Human-First Approach

Good recruitment isn’t about matching CVs to job descriptions — it’s about understanding people.

When I work with you, I want to know your story, your motivations, and the type of studio or role where you’ll genuinely thrive. It’s why I spend time digging into the details: your personality, design philosophy, project preferences, and even your future goals.

Recently, I partnered with Emily — an exceptional Interior Designer whose portfolio needed a bit of reframing to truly communicate her strengths. Together, we reshaped her folio, teased out what made her style special, and positioned her for the type of role she should have been in all along.

Result? She landed a dream position at a top-tier design practice completely aligned with her creative direction. That’s the power of a personalised approach.

Open Communication (With Zero Bulls%it)

If you’ve ever been ghosted by a recruiter or sent into an interview with little to no preparation… yeah, that’s not me.

I keep communication clear, honest, and transparent. If something’s not right, I’ll tell you. If a job isn’t a fit, I won’t pretend it is. If there’s an update, you’ll get it — quick smart.

Whether you're a hiring manager or a candidate, you’ll always know where things stand. Recruitment should feel like a partnership, not a guessing game.

Guidance Through Every Step of the Process

Let’s be real: the Architecture & Design job market can be tough to navigate. Roles shift quickly, studios evolve, and competition can be fierce — particularly in Interior Design and Architecture across Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane.

That’s where a specialist comes in.

I’ll support you with:

• Market insights
• Salary guidance
• CV and portfolio preparation
• Interview preparation
• Hiring strategy (for clients)
• Honest feedback on how to strengthen your position

My job is to make sure you walk into every opportunity feeling informed, confident, and ready to shine.

Feedback, Support & Momentum

Not landing a role straight away isn’t the end of the story — it’s a plot twist.

If something doesn’t go to plan, I help you recalibrate. If you need to reposition your portfolio or refine your interview answers, I’m there. If the market’s slow, I’ll keep you motivated and moving.

Your success is the reason I do this. And yes — I genuinely care.

Why Work With a Specialist Like Me?

Because niche recruitment works.

I’m deeply embedded in the Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture communities. I know which studios are hiring, who’s quietly expanding, where candidates succeed, and what makes top-tier talent stand out.

You get:

• Insider knowledge
• Real market understanding
• A recruiter who speaks your language
• A long-term partner, not a transactional service

Let’s Chat About Your Next Move (Or Your Next Hire)

If you’re ready to work with someone as solid as England’s ability to throw away games (so… reliably consistent 😎), then let’s talk.

Call me: 0406 470 020
Email me: Lee@vividrecruitment.com.au

Whether you’re building a team or planning your next career step, I’m here to help you get it right.

Vivid Recruitment -  Your specialist partner in:

Architecture & Interior Design Recruitment | Urban Design & Planning Recruitment | Mechanical Engineering Recruitment | Electrical Engineering Recruitment | Structural Engineering Recruitment | Civil Engineering Recruitment | Acoustic Engineering Recruitment | Hydraulic Engineering Recruitment | ESD / Sustainability Engineering Recruitment | Fire Engineering Recruitment

FAQs: Working With a Design Recruitment Specialist

What types of design roles does Lee Stevens recruit for?

Lee specialises in Architecture recruitment, Interior Design recruitment and Landscape Architecture recruitment across Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Roles include Graduate Architects, Registered Architects, Senior Architects, Interior Designers, Landscape Architects, Associates, Studio Leaders and senior design leadership positions within the built environment.

Do you work with both candidates and hiring managers?

Yes. Lee supports both job seekers and employers. Candidates receive career advice, portfolio feedback, salary guidance and access to exclusive Architecture and Interior Design roles. Hiring managers receive support with talent mapping, salary benchmarking and securing high-quality design professionals aligned technically and culturally.

How is working with a specialist Architecture recruiter different from a general recruiter?

A specialist recruiter understands the Architecture and Design industry in detail. Lee understands studio structures, software capability such as Revit, sector specialisms including multi-residential and commercial, and what makes a portfolio stand out. This leads to stronger shortlists and better long-term hires.

Can you help improve my CV and portfolio?

Yes. In Architecture and Interior Design recruitment, portfolio presentation is critical. Lee provides clear, practical feedback on structure, project selection and positioning to ensure your work resonates with hiring managers.

What if I’m not actively looking for a new job?

That’s completely fine. Many professionals speak with Lee for market insight, salary benchmarking and confidential career advice before actively entering the job market.

How do you support clients hiring in a competitive market?

Lee provides market insight on candidate availability, realistic salary guidance, advice on role positioning and feedback on employer brand perception within the Architecture and Design sector. Clear communication and efficient interview processes are key to securing top talent.

What locations do you cover?

Lee recruits across Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, with an established network throughout Australia’s Architecture, Interior Design and Landscape Architecture markets.

How do I get started?

You can call 0406 470 020 or email Lee@vividrecruitment.com.au to arrange a confidential discussion about hiring or your next career move in Architecture or Design.