Open to opportunities

Gwendolyn First

@gwendolynfirst

Interior designer and project lead with 20+ years delivering human-centered, budget-aware spaces and data-informed stakeholder solutions.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I’m looking to lead interior and workplace design that’s human-centered and data-informed—where I can collaborate cross-functionally, manage vendors and schedules, and deliver safe, sustainable spaces aligned with DEI, user needs, and long-term success.

I’m an exceptional interior designer and project lead with 20+ years of experience spanning project management, stakeholder engagement, creative direction, branding and set design. I consistently deliver creative, high-quality finished products while balancing budget, safety, sustainability, longevity, and well being for end users.

Across workplaces, renovations, and new build work, I lead collaborative problem solving through strategic planning, space planning, and stakeholder advocacy—turning research and data into practical designs and actionable reporting. From constructing plans with AutoCad to creating 3D renders and conceptual layouts, I’m known for producing feasible outcomes with clear schedules, vendor coordination, and feedback channels that advance DEI and LGBTQIA-forward experiences.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Set Designer

Current

TRG Multimedia

Oct 2023 - Present (2 years 7 months)

Designed conceptual mood boards for client presentations and created 3D renders using Foyr and Blender. Produced AutoCAD construction plans and collaborated with art directors and carpentry/construction teams to deliver feasible designs within client parameters.

3D Rendering Foyr Blender Autocad Construction Plans Stakeholder Engagement

Workplaces Lead

Gojo Industries

May 2022 - Sep 2023 (1 year 4 months)

Owned workplace renovation development end-to-end, creating vendor/contractor schedules and coordinating implementation with cross-functional teams. Designed inclusive spaces and policies for DEI and LGBTQIA while using onsite and virtual survey feedback to improve end-user experience.

Space Planning Project Management Policy Development DEI LGBTQIA Inclusive Design Vendor Management Survey Analysis Stakeholder Engagement Cross Functional Collaboration

Workplaces Specialist

Gojo Industries

May 2019 - Sep 2022 (3 years 4 months)

Served as the liaison between Facilities, IT, and Workplaces teams, prioritizing daily needs and large-scale project work. Owned new construction schedules and met 100% of feature deadlines while delivering human-centered spaces and presenting project recommendations to leadership.

Project Scheduling Human Centered Design Human Comfort Space Design vendor relationship management Furniture Inventory Streamlining Construction Documentation

Interior Designer

TCG Engineering

Dec 2015 - May 2019 (3 years 5 months)

Designed commercial and residential layouts for new and existing projects, delivering conceptual plans and full construction documents. Supported zoning and permitting by conducting research on utilities and topography, drafting RFPs/RFIs, and coordinating with project and design/construction leads.

Interior Design Space Planning Zoning Permitting Support Topography Utility Research

Interior Designer

Northport Flooring America

Apr 2013 - Dec 2015 (2 years 8 months)

Advised clients on interior finishes and layouts, producing conceptual plan drafts and project proposals/estimates. Scheduled contractors, managed client orders, performed field measurements, and supervised installations to address quality issues and complaints.

Interior Finishes Selection Conceptual Plan Drafting Proposal Estimate

Interior Designer

S. Carpet Outlet

May 2010 - Apr 2013 (2 years 11 months)

Advised on interior finishes and layouts while creating basic color boards to support client selections and scheduling material installations. Produced quotes/estimates, recommended products and services, and organized showroom materials to improve sales performance.

Interior Finishes Selection Color Board Creation Recommendations Client Communication

Store Planner

Joann Fabrics, Inc.

May 2005 - Aug 2008 (3 years 3 months)

Oversaw designs for over 75 store openings and expansions, achieving an average project completion rate of 96% within established timelines. Ensured ADA and wheelchair compliance, designed in AutoCAD, coordinated with contractors/inspectors, and reviewed floor plans for state and federal regulatory compliance.

Project Management Autocad Project Coordination Regulatory Compliance Review Graphics Fixture Planning Cross Functional Collaboration