Senior Architect

Rive Gauche is a high-end multi-disciplinary design studio based in Central London. We specialise in high-end residential and luxury hospitality in London and globally, currently working across 6 different countries. We offer a turnkey service from Architecture, Interior Design, to Project Management by providing an end-to-end service, offering clients strategic advice from the early stages of pre-acquisition through to project delivery.

We believe in exceptional client services. We are passionate about design, creative excellence & technical knowledge. We are looking for an exceptional architect to join our team as a Senior Architect. The ideal candidate will be a skilled architect with 5+ years’ experience in the UK. Experience of working on high-end projects is mandatory, either residential, commercial or hospitality, with excellent attention to detail and a strong background in planning is a must.

• CREATIVE
• Lead and manage architectural projects, overseeing all phases from conceptual design to construction completion.
• Develop creative and functional design concepts for the architectural design, (in conjunction with the Head of Design), and present proposals to clients and stakeholders.
• Ensure designs align with client needs, market trends, sustainability principles, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and manage junior staff to produce detailed architectural drawings, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and technical details for architectural packages.
• Collaborate with design and technical consultants, contractors, and other specialists to ensure design integrity and technical feasibility.
• Research and specify appropriate materials and finishes that align with the project’s design intent, budget, and sustainability goals.
• Work closely with the interior team, project manager, contractors, and clients to ensure that the design vision is implemented accurately throughout the project lifecycle.
• Present design proposals, concepts, and material selections to clients, and incorporate their feedback into final designs.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior architects and design team.
• TECHNICAL
• Deliver projects from inception through to completion across all RIBA project stages.
• Have sound knowledge and understanding of the planning process and deliver planning submissions in line with client requirements. Fully discharge planning conditions as relevant. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of local and national planning policy as well heritage and conservation matters.
• Have sound knowledge and understanding of the building regulation approval process and achieve building control approval in line with client requirements. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of latest industry standards and protocols including the Building Safety Act and associated Gateway process.
• Assist and manage production design information for tender and construction purposes including technical schedules and NBS level specifications.
• Conduct site visits, review construction progress, and address any design-related challenges. Liaise with contractors, consultants and suppliers as necessary during construction to monitor quality and resolve any design issues.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, materials, and construction methods.
• Have sound knowledge and understanding of design legislation including The London Plan, BREEAM, Lifetime Homes, Secured By Design, etc.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Ability to design within a given budget liaising with the PM Team.
• Liaise with Rive Gauche design team to ensure that the design intent is carried through throughout the Detail Design stage.
• MANAGEMENT
• Ensure that all project deadlines are met in accordance with given timeframes.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and according to design specifications.
• Thorough knowledge of and compliance with RG procedures and standards.
• Monitor and report on a weekly / monthly basis to studio management against company and project objectives.
• Represent the studio at client review and progress meetings.
• Developing a detailed design programme with the project manager and other relevant parties to satisfy design, procurement and construction requirements.
• Attending necessary meetings with internal and external stakeholders.

• Full architectural qualification in UK. ARB registered.
• 5+ years UK architectural experience.
• Software skills must include: Autocad, SketchUp, and Adobe Suite. Revit also welcome but not mandatory.
• Knowledge of UK building regulations, construction methods and technology, UK planning policies and procurement methods.
• This is a client facing role, the candidate should demonstrate good communication, excellent spoken and written English, and strong organisational skills.
• A proactive approach to working, (can do attitude), with an ability to take the initiative and drive projects.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing young practice beginning to make a name for themselves in luxury design. The role is ideal for anyone looking to take on a senior role and become a key part of the studio. The position requires a combination of both creative and technical skills, as well as excellent communication. The chosen applicant will be able to work on a variety of exciting projects located both in the UK and abroad. Hybrid working possible subject to office requirements.