At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design projects from concept to construction, creating transformative environments.
- Company: Join Gillespies LLP, a top landscape architecture and urban design studio.
- Benefits: Freelance flexibility, creative freedom, and the chance to shape sustainable communities.
- Other info: Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on exciting UK and international projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on innovative projects that enhance people's lives.
- Qualifications: Experienced designer with a background in landscape architecture or architecture.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
Gillespies LLP is a leading landscape architecture, masterplanning and urban design studio with a strong reputation for delivering responsibly designed, transformative, and award-winning environments that enhance people’s lives. We collaborate with forward-thinking clients on pioneering projects across the UK and internationally, shaping places that support healthier, more inclusive and sustainable communities. We are committed to advancing nature-led urbanism, integrating landscape, architecture and urban systems to create resilient and meaningful places for the future.
We are seeking a highly talented Senior or Principal-level designer (Landscape Architect or Architect background welcome) to join us on a freelance / contract basis, contributing to design leadership, project delivery and creative development within our studio.
Role overview
You will play a key role in leading design thinking, supporting project teams, and contributing to the development and delivery of complex projects from concept through to construction. This role is suitable for experienced designers who are confident operating across scales, from strategic design thinking to detailed implementation.
Key responsibilities may include:
- Leading or supporting design development across concept, planning and technical stages
- Producing high-quality drawings, diagrams, visualisations and presentation materials
- Guiding assistants and mentoring junior team members
- Contributing to client discussions, workshops and design reviews
- Supporting project coordination, tender preparation and construction-stage design input
- Working across multidisciplinary teams on UK and international projects
- Supporting research, precedent analysis and material exploration
Design, digital and innovation capability
We are particularly interested in candidates who are passionate about the evolving relationship between design and technology. You should demonstrate interest and experience in:
- Emerging digital design tools and AI-assisted workflows
- Visualisation, data-informed design research and design optimisation
- Integration of digital methods into concept generation and delivery processes
- Supporting studio learning and mentoring others in improved digital practice
Freelance working considerations
This is a freelance / contract role. Candidates should therefore be able to confirm:
- Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance coverage appropriate to freelance design work
- Familiarity with industry-standard design tools used in landscape and architectural practice
- Access to your own laptop and business licensed core design software
Software list:
- Essential: Adobe Creative Cloud (with access to Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator as a minimum), Microsoft 365 or Studio 2019 with MS Teams, AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT
- Desirable based on project requirements: Autodesk Revit, Autodesk Navisworks
Remote Senior/Principal Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) Freelance in Nottingham employer: Gillespies
Gillespies LLP is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work culture that fosters creativity and innovation in landscape architecture and urban design. As a freelance Senior/Principal Designer, you will have the opportunity to work on transformative projects that enhance communities while benefiting from a supportive environment that encourages professional growth and mentorship. With a commitment to advancing nature-led urbanism and integrating cutting-edge digital tools, Gillespies provides a unique platform for designers to thrive and make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Remote Senior/Principal Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) Freelance in Nottingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the landscape architecture and design world. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meet-ups. You never know who might have a lead on a freelance opportunity or can introduce you to someone at Gillespies LLP.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a stunning portfolio that highlights your best work, especially projects that align with Gillespies' focus on nature-led urbanism. Make sure it’s easy to navigate and visually appealing – first impressions matter!
✨Tip Number 3
Get social! Follow Gillespies LLP on social media and engage with their posts. Share your thoughts on their projects or trends in landscape architecture. This can help you get noticed and show your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role and the company’s mission. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Remote Senior/Principal Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) Freelance in Nottingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Make sure to include a portfolio that highlights your best work. We want to see your design thinking and how you tackle projects from concept to construction. Don’t hold back on showcasing your creativity!
Tailor Your Application:When applying, customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with our role. We love seeing how your background in landscape architecture or architecture fits into what we do at Gillespies.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your written application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your ideas come across without unnecessary fluff. Highlight your key achievements and relevant experiences!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gillespies
✨Know Your Design Portfolio Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you can discuss your design portfolio in detail. Highlight specific projects that showcase your skills in landscape architecture or architecture, especially those that align with Gillespies LLP's focus on transformative environments and nature-led urbanism.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Digital Tools
Since the role emphasises emerging digital design tools and AI-assisted workflows, brush up on your knowledge of software like Adobe Creative Cloud and AutoCAD. Be ready to discuss how you've integrated these tools into your design process and how they can enhance project delivery.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Discussions
Gillespies LLP values collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. Think about examples from your past experiences where you successfully led or contributed to team discussions, workshops, or design reviews. This will demonstrate your ability to work effectively with others.
✨Showcase Your Mentoring Experience
As a Senior or Principal Designer, you'll be guiding assistants and mentoring junior team members. Prepare to share instances where you've supported others in their professional development, as this will highlight your leadership skills and commitment to fostering a collaborative studio environment.
