Job Description

Level Experienced Job Location WFH NC - NC, NC 27601 Position Type Full Time Job Shift Day

About Us

Model Home Interiors (MHI), now part of Empire Office, is a leading design and installation firm creating fully furnished environments for lifestyle real estate, including multifamily housing, student residences, senior living communities, and model homes. Together, we are the nation’s trusted one-stop partner for residential and lifestyle real estate FF&E. We help builders and developers stand out by ensuring no two communities ever feel the same, whether aligning with existing design schemes or co-creating custom, differentiated looks. Backed by Empire’s 79+ years of expertise across commercial, residential, and hospitality projects, MHI delivers distinctive spaces that inspire buyers, attract residents, and accelerate sales. Joining MHI means being part of a collaborative team within Empire, where creativity, design thinking, and problem-solving make a real impact on how people live.

The Stylist is responsible for bringing design concepts to life through thoughtful, high-quality on-site installation and styling. This role focuses on executing the final layer of design, furniture placement, accessories, art, textiles, and overall spatial styling—to deliver a cohesive, polished, client-ready space. The Stylist partners closely with Designers, Project Managers, and Install Teams to ensure every project is executed accurately, beautifully, and on brand.

This role is client-facing during walkthroughs and is accountable for documenting project completion, identifying punch items, and developing contingency solutions when site or inventory issues arise. We are specifically seeking a Remote Stylist based on the East Coast to support projects across the region.

Key Responsibilities

On-Site Installation & Styling

• Lead on-site installation, styling, and final layout for all types of residential projects (model homes, rental units, amenity spaces, etc.)
• Style furniture, soft goods, art, décor, and accessories to ensure each space aligns with the approved design intent and brand standards.
• Direct installation teams on placement, adjustments, and styling order of operations.
• Make on-site design decisions when plans need adjustments (e.g., ceiling height variances, unexpected architectural changes).

Client Walkthroughs & Communication

• Conduct client walkthroughs to present completed spaces and gather feedback.
• Explain design decisions, styling choices, and alignment with brand or builder guidelines.
• Create and deliver final project reports that document completion status, deficiencies, follow up items, and recommended next steps.

Quality Control & Issue Resolution

• Inspect all styled spaces for accuracy, craftsmanship, and completeness.
• Identify deficiencies, missing items, damaged pieces, and any issues impacting project completion.
• Develop contingency plans when inventory or site conditions differ from expectations (e.g., substitute items, layout adjustments, sourcing immediate solutions).
• Partner with the warehouse and procurement teams to track and resolve outstanding items.

Collaboration & Coordination

• Work closely with the Design Production team to fully understand all design plans, specifications, and stylistic goals prior to installation.
• Collaborate with Install Leads and Drivers to ensure smooth, efficient installation flow.
• Communicate proactively with Project Managers about timeline risks, unexpected field conditions, and any required client approvals.

Documentation & Reporting

• Provide detailed final reports that include:
  • Photos of all completed spaces
  • Punch list items
  • Substitution or adjustment notes
  • Inventory needs or reorders
  • Any homeowner or builder feedback
• Maintain on-site checklists and ensure all project documentation is accurate and submitted within required timelines

Qualifications

Skills &

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in interior styling, residential design, visual merchandising, or model home staging.
• Strong eye for design, composition, proportion, and visual storytelling.
• Ability to make quick, smart decisions on-site to maintain design integrity.
• Excellent communication and client-facing skills.
• Comfortable directing installation crews and working in fast-paced environments.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt to changing site conditions.
• Proficient in reading design plans, elevations, and furniture layouts.
• Valid driver’s license; ability to travel to job sites as needed.
• Willingness to travel — this role requires 100% on-site presence at project locations.

What Success Looks Like

• Spaces consistently installed on time, fully styled, and delivered to a high standard.
• Clients feel supported, informed, and confident in the finished product.
• Fewer punch items due to proactive issue identification and on-site decision-making.
• Strong collaboration between Designers, Project Managers, install teams, and warehouse operations.
• Styling elevates the design intent and helps win repeat business.