Designer - Workspace

About the company

At Fora, we’re reimagining what the workplace can be. We create inspiring, design‑led spaces that blend hospitality, community, and wellbeing—so people can work productively, creatively, and happily. From our first London workspace over 20 years ago, we’ve grown to 60+ locations across the UK and Germany, supporting 30,000+ members and partnering with trailblazing brands like Ocado, The British Fashion Council, and Pangaia. Backed by The Office Group, Blackstone, and Brockton Capital, we’re growing fast and pioneering conscious design, sustainable construction, and workspaces that empower people to work in their own unique way. At Fora, we’re not just shaping workplaces— we’re shaping the future of work.

The role

Fora is looking for a passionate, highly driven Designer to join our Design & Development team, supporting the delivery of high‑quality, beautifully considered workspaces across our growing portfolio. In this role, you’ll work closely with senior designers while confidently leading design packages when required—playing a key part in client alterations, refurbishments and space‑planning projects that directly support sales, operations and investor‑level reporting. This is a fantastic opportunity for a designer who enjoys combining creative thinking with technical rigour, client interaction and real‑world delivery in live, occupied buildings.

What you’ll be doing

• Client Alterations & Refurbishments: Act as the design lead for client alterations and refurbishment projects, from initial brief through to coordinated design packages. Meet with new and existing clients to capture requirements and translate them into considered, commercially viable design solutions. Produce design intent presentations, test fits, space plans, FF&E layouts and coordinated drawings suitable for costing and delivery. Clearly communicate building constraints including fire strategy, M&E capacity, statutory compliance, programme and cost implications. Balance client needs with operational, technical and commercial considerations in occupied buildings. Specify finishes, fittings and materials in line with budgets, brand standards and long‑term asset strategy. Support Enterprise and priority clients, working closely with Sales to help secure and deliver commercial opportunities. Undertake site visits, identifying constraints and opportunities, and developing strong practical knowledge through contractor engagement. Collaborate closely with Project Managers to ensure designs are technically robust and coordinated for accurate cost planning. Contribute to CapEx‑funded refreshes, refurbishments and client‑specific alterations across the portfolio.
• FF&E: Work alongside the FF&E Procurement team to guide furniture selections that align with design intent, client needs and operational requirements. Help evolve Fora’s standard furniture and enhancement offering, supporting quality, consistency and commercial viability.
• Inventory & Space Data: Capture and formally report changes to layouts and occupiable areas through Fora’s inventory change process. Maintain accurate live inventory records and area matrices to investor‑ready standards. Support Sales and High‑Density plans by ensuring spatial data reflects live layouts and availability.

Experience & Knowledge

• Experience across the full design process, ideally within UK workplace design, space planning or commercial interiors.
• Understanding of the flexible workspace sector or related commercial environments.
• Strong technical understanding of UK building regulations, fire strategy and building control.
• Knowledge of shell & core, CAT A / CAT B, base build and fit‑out.
• Good understanding of building construction techniques and commercial M&E services.
• Confident producing high‑quality, well‑coordinated design packages.

Skills & Tools

• Strong communication and client‑facing presentation skills.
• Excellent space planning and technical detailing ability.
• Proficient in design software such as Revit and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Comfortable with MS Word and Excel.
• Understanding of RICS measurement standards.

Qualifications

• Design, Architecture or related degree (or equivalent experience).

At Fora, we believe work should enhance your life—not compete with it. That’s why our benefits are designed to support your wellbeing, fuel your ambitions, and give you the freedom to live and work your way.

Work Your Way: Core working hours with flexibility—because life doesn’t run 9–5. Two weeks ‘Work from Anywhere’—swap your desk for a beach, a mountain… anywhere that inspires you.

Time to Rest & Recharge: 28 days’ annual leave + bank holidays. Your birthday off – celebrate you. Buy additional annual leave to create even more time for what matters.

Wellbeing & Security: 5% matched pension scheme – supporting your future. Life assurance for peace of mind. Discounted gym membership to keep you feeling your best. Health cash plan - supporting day-to-day medical expenses. Mental wellbeing support – confidential in‑person or online therapy sessions.

Smarter, Greener Commuting: Cycle to Work Scheme. Season Ticket Loan to make your journey easier and more affordable.

Perks That Make You Smile: 25% off at Fora cafés – your morning coffee just got better. 2 x volunteer days / year.