At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage exciting residential and commercial projects from concept to construction.
- Company: Join GCA, a dynamic architectural practice in North West London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for mentorship.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative studio environment with clear progression towards leadership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on diverse projects while collaborating with talented teams.
- Qualifications: ARB-registered architect with at least three years of UK experience.
The predicted salary is between 47250 - 57750 £ per year.
GCA is seeking an experienced ARB-registered architect or project architect to join its growing team in London.
Location: North West London
Employment type: full-time, studio-based
This is a project-delivery role for an architect with strong UK experience who can independently manage projects while working collaboratively with our wider architectural, structural engineering and technical teams. You will work across a varied portfolio of residential and commercial projects throughout London and the UK, including private homes, cultural and mixed-use developments.
We are looking for someone who combines strong design ability with sound technical knowledge, commercial awareness and a practical understanding of how buildings are designed, coordinated and constructed.
The role
You will manage and deliver designated projects across all RIBA Work Stages, from initial briefing and concept design through planning, technical design, tender, construction and handover. You will be expected to work independently, exercise professional judgement and take ownership of agreed programmes, deliverables and project outcomes. At the same time, you will collaborate closely with directors, senior team members, architectural assistants, engineers, specialist consultants and contractors. The role will suit an architect who is confident leading projects, coordinating, maintaining design quality through technical delivery and resolving practical issues during construction.
Key responsibilities:
- Manage residential and commercial projects from initial briefing through construction and handover
- Develop high-quality, commercially viable and buildable design solutions
- Prepare and coordinate planning, Building Regulations, tender and construction information
- Maintain design intent, technical quality and buildability through detailed design and construction
- Coordinate structural, MEP, fire, energy and other specialist consultants
- Manage project programmes, deliverables, design changes and client expectations
- Lead client, consultant, contractor and site meetings where appropriate
- Respond to technical queries and review contractor submissions during construction
- Undertake site inspections and support contract administration duties
- Supervise junior team members and contribute to internal quality assurance procedures
Essential requirements:
- ARB-registered
- Minimum three years’ post-Part 3 experience within a UK architectural practice
- Demonstrable experience across all RIBA Work Stages
- Proven experience delivering UK projects through planning, Building Regulations, tender and construction
- Strong and practical knowledge of UK Building Regulations and the planning system
- Ability to maintain design intent and quality through technical design and construction detailing
- Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, interfaces and buildability
- Experience coordinating multidisciplinary consultants
- Ability to produce and review high-quality technical and construction drawing packages
- Confidence communicating with clients, contractors, consultants and statutory authorities
- Ability to work independently, exercise professional judgement and take ownership of projects
- Strong organisational, communication and time-management skills
- Experience managing multiple live projects and competing deadlines
RIBA Chartered Membership, or eligibility for chartered membership, would be advantageous.
Software skills
Candidates should be proficient in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office. Experience with Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Enscape, D5 Render or similar visualisation software would be beneficial.
Desirable experience
Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous:
- Residential extensions, loft conversions and refurbishment projects
- High-end private residential projects
- Multi-unit residential developments
- Commercial fit-out and change-of-use projects
- Tender preparation, contractor procurement and JCT contracts
- Contract administration and construction-stage project delivery
- Principal Designer duties under the Building Regulations
- Managing or mentoring junior architectural staff
About us
GCA is a multidisciplinary architectural practice delivering residential and commercial projects across London and the wider UK, working together with our studio in Sri Lanka. Our London studio works closely with our architectural, structural engineering and technical teams to provide coordinated design solutions from feasibility through construction. We place particular importance on design quality, technical accuracy, buildability, clear communication and professional responsibility.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
- A high level of project responsibility and professional autonomy
- Exposure to projects across all RIBA Work Stages
- Direct involvement with clients, consultants and contractors
- Annual performance review and bonus scheme
- Regular CPD and professional development
- Opportunities to mentor and manage junior team members
- Collaborative studio environment
- Networking events, team social activities and overseas team trips
- Loyalty recognition programme
- Clear progression towards a senior leadership position as the practice grows
Experienced architect/project architect in London employer: GCA
GCA is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, making it an ideal place for architects to thrive. With a focus on professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while working on diverse residential and commercial projects across London and the UK. The vibrant London location offers unique networking opportunities and access to a dynamic architectural community, enhancing both personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Experienced architect/project architect in London
✨Get Your Portfolio Game On Point
As an aspiring architect, your portfolio is your golden ticket. Make sure it's not just a collection of your best work, but tells a story about your design process and creative thought. Showcase a range of projects, from conceptual sketches to final renderings—think of it as a visual CV!
✨Slide into Networking Events
Architecture thrives on community connections, so keep an eye out for local architecture meetups, exhibitions, and lectures. These events are gold for meeting industry professionals, and who knows? You might just bump into someone from GCA who can give you the insider scoop on their hiring process!
✨Learn the Software Inside Out
Make sure you're up to speed with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Being able to discuss your proficiency during interviews can really set you apart. Plus, if you can mention particular projects where you’ve used them, you’ll demonstrate both skill and practical experience.
✨Refine Your Interview Skills
Interviews for architecture roles can get quite technical, so practice answering questions about your design process and decision-making strategies. Prepare for potential design challenges they might put forward in interviews—show them you can think on your feet and come up with innovative solutions!
We think you need these skills to ace Experienced architect/project architect in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Architecture is all about creativity and technical skills, so make sure your portfolio is front and centre! Include a range of your best projects, showcasing different styles and techniques. Don't forget to explain your design process and the challenges you overcame for each project – it gives hiring managers a glimpse into your thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:When putting together your CV, highlight relevant experience in architectural design software, like AutoCAD or Revit. Plus, if you have any internships or coursework that involved real-world projects, be sure to mention them. We want to see not just what you've done, but how it relates directly to this role at GCA!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to GCA. Talk about specific projects or values of theirs you admire, and how you see yourself contributing to their team. We want to feel your enthusiasm – let it shine through your words!
Use Professional Terminology:Don't shy away from using industry-specific jargon that demonstrates your expertise! Terms like 'sustainability', 'scale', and 'aesthetics' can not only show your knowledge but also help you connect with the hiring team. Just ensure it's done in a way that's relatable and not overly technical, so we can see your passion clearly!
How to prepare for a job interview at GCA
✨Master the Technical Questions
In an architecture interview, be ready to tackle some technical questions about building codes, design principles, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of materials and components, as you might even face scenarios to solve during the interview that showcase your problem-solving skills in real-time.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure it not only showcases your best work but also highlights your design thinking process, from sketches to final outputs. During the interview, be prepared to discuss the projects in detail—what challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and what you learnt.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
In today's architecture landscape, sustainability is key. Be sure to highlight any projects that involved eco-friendly designs or your understanding of sustainable practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the trends but are genuinely passionate about creating a better future through your designs.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Architecture is a collaborative field, so showing that you're a team player is essential. When conversing with the interviewers, actively listen and respond to their ideas. This isn’t just about you showing off your skills, but also about connecting and demonstrating how well you’d fit into their team at GCA.
