Sharmista Mitra CID, NCIDQ, IIDA

Design Principal, Director of Interior Design

back to people

Sharmista Mitra, CID, NCIDQ is a Principal and Director of Interior Design with more than 25 years of experience in design for the hospitality, gaming, hotel and entertainment marketplace. Recognized for her calm leadership, thoughtful insight and unwavering commitment to design quality, she guides interdisciplinary teams in creating interior environments that balance creativity, functionality and operational performance. Sharmista’s ability to bring clarity, organization and alignment to complex projects has made her a trusted partner to clients and colleagues alike.

Having led projects from early concept through construction, Sharmista works to preserve design intent as projects advance through each phase of delivery. She believes the strongest projects are achieved when communication is clear, expectations are understood and every team member shares responsibility for the outcome. Her thoughtful approach, attention to detail and steady leadership help create an environment where collaboration and accountability reinforce one another.

Beyond her project responsibilities, Sharmista has played an important leadership role in strengthening JCJ’s collaborative culture. As a mentor and trusted advisor, she is known for supporting emerging professionals while encouraging high standards, sound judgment and continuous growth. Her leadership reflects a belief that exceptional design is achieved not only through creativity, but through trust, preparation and a shared commitment to excellence.

Awards and Recognition

  • San Diego Business Journal, Leader of Influence in Architecture & Design (2024, 2025, 2026)
  • “Built to be Shared: How Casino Design Drives Social Media Engagement, Brand Reach and Guest Loyalty,” Indian Gaming Association National Conference (2026)
  • “A Strategic Approach to Expanding Market Share and Enhancing Guest Loyalty,” California Nations Indian Gaming Association Conference (2026)
  • “Elements of a Culturally Inspired Building Design,” Association of Tribal Libraries Archives and Museums, National Conference (2024)

Project Experience

  • Tribal gaming and hospitality
  • Hotels and resorts
  • Entertainment venues
  • Food and beverage
  • Resort destinations

Representative Clients

  • Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
  • Alabama Coushatta Tribe of Texas
  • Jamul Indian Village Development Corp
  • Morongo Band of Mission Indians
  • Pauma Band of Luiseño Mission Indians
  • The Confederate tribes of the Chehalis Reservation
  • Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise
  • Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians

Representative Projects

  • Desert Diamond White Tanks Casino – Glendale, AZ
  • Jamul Casino Resort Hotel – Jamul, CA
  • Viejas Casino Resort – Alpine, CA
  • Yaamava’ Casino, North Expansion – Highland, CA
  • Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel – Catalina Island, CA
Experience

29 Years

Capabilities
  • Interior design leadership
  • Hospitality and Gaming interiors
  • Project leadership
  • Interdisciplinary coordination
  • Design quality management
  • Client engagement
  • FF&E strategy and specification
  • Team development and mentoring
Professional Leadership
  • Former Studio Leader, JCJ San Diego
  • Former Placemaking Committee Member, Downtown San Diego Partnership
  • Former Co-Chair of Design Review Commission, El Cajon Community Development Corporation
Credentials
  • National Council of Interior Design Qualifications (NCIDQ) certified
  • California Council for Interior Design Certification (CID)
Education
  • Master of Architecture, New School of Architecture
  • Certificate of Business Studies, San Diego City College
  • Bachelor of Art in Architecture, New School of Architecture
  • Diploma in Interior Design, Exterior-Interior (P) Ltd – Kolkata, India
Affiliations
  • Global Gaming Women
  • International Interior Design Association (IIDA)