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- Tasks: Lead innovative design projects that enhance learning environments for students and educators.
- Company: Award-winning architecture practice focused on higher education design excellence.
- Benefits: Creative freedom, supportive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education through impactful design and collaboration.
- Qualifications: RIBA or ARB-registered architect with 6+ years in higher education projects.
- Other info: Join a close-knit team dedicated to quality, innovation, and meaningful design.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
An award-winning architecture and design practice, recognised for design excellence and deep expertise within the higher education sector (universities), is seeking a talented and ambitious Associate Architect. This is a pivotal leadership role within a growing, close-knit higher education team. The client requires a registered architect who is passionate about high-quality design for learning, confident in delivery, and motivated to help shape the future direction of the higher education sector.
The role offers significant creative freedom with no prescribed house style. A core focus of the position is on learning environments: how design directly influences and supports better learning outcomes for students, while also creating more effective, inspiring environments for educators. Acting as the primary point of contact for clients, you will lead presentations and workshops, working closely with end users to develop meaningful, engaging spaces.
You will play a key role across project delivery, business growth, and thought leadership. This role suits a confident leader who can manage teams, win new work, and actively expand the studio’s presence within the education sector. The client is particularly interested in deep thinkers - individuals who genuinely understand end users and how design can best support learning and collaboration.
Working closely with the studio directors, you’ll have the autonomy to lead projects from concept through to completion, championing design quality, innovation, and technical excellence at every stage. This is a unique opportunity to progress your career within a supportive, collaborative environment that truly values individual contribution and professional development.
Key Responsibilities- Work closely with stakeholders to create innovative design solutions focused on student learning outcomes and effective teaching environments.
- Be at the forefront of learning design, pushing creativity and design thinking to enable flexible, fluid learning environments for both students and educators.
- Lead and manage project teams, providing clear direction, mentorship, and fostering a collaborative studio culture.
- Actively identify and pursue new business opportunities, contributing to work-winning efforts, pitches, and the growth of the studio’s network.
- Lead the preparation and delivery of technical drawing packages and implementation documentation.
- Develop and champion creative, robust, and buildable design solutions from concept to completion.
- Lead client meetings, design workshops, and presentations, confidently engaging with stakeholders at all levels, including trusts and end-users.
- Ensure compliance with relevant building regulations, planning, and zoning requirements.
- Coordinate effectively with consultants, contractors, and statutory authorities to achieve project objectives.
- Contribute to the resolution of technical challenges and design issues.
- Participate in internal project reviews, design crits, and quality assurance processes.
- RIBA or ARB-registered architect with a minimum of 6+ years’ post-qualification experience.
- Proven experience leading and managing multiple higher education (university) projects.
- Demonstrable experience in designing learning environments that engage students and support a range of learning styles, enhancing learning outcomes.
- Excellent client-facing skills, with confidence in presenting, pitching, and consulting with diverse stakeholder groups.
- Proven delivery experience across all RIBA stages (0–7).
- Strong design and technical capability, with a clear and confident creative voice.
- Solid working knowledge of UK building regulations, and construction processes.
- Highly detail-oriented, with a passion for quality, innovation, and well-crafted architecture.
Associate Architect - Higher Education in London employer: Curio Careers
Contact Detail:
Curio Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Architect - Higher Education in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the higher education sector. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! When you land an interview, make sure to bring along a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best work, especially projects related to learning environments. We want to see how your designs can inspire and engage students!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll likely need to present your ideas and designs to clients and stakeholders. We suggest rehearsing your presentation skills with friends or colleagues to ensure you come across as confident and knowledgeable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to apply directly. Don’t forget to tailor your application to highlight your experience in higher education projects!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Architect - Higher Education in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Design: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for high-quality design shine through. We want to see how you connect design with learning outcomes and how you can inspire both students and educators.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in higher education projects. We’re looking for someone who understands the unique challenges and opportunities in this sector, so be specific about your past roles and achievements.
Be Confident and Clear: Your written application should reflect your confidence and clarity. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas and ensure that your personality comes across. We appreciate a strong voice that resonates with our values.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Curio Careers
✨Know Your Design Philosophy
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your design philosophy and how it aligns with the company's focus on learning environments. Be ready to discuss specific projects where your design choices directly influenced student outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role requires strong leadership, prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects in the past. Highlight your ability to mentor others and foster a collaborative culture, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since you'll be leading client meetings and workshops, practice how you would engage with various stakeholders. Think about how to communicate complex ideas clearly and confidently, ensuring you can adapt your approach based on the audience.
✨Demonstrate Technical Knowledge
Brush up on your knowledge of UK building regulations and construction processes. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated these in previous projects, as well as any technical challenges you've overcome, to showcase your expertise.
