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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to create inspiring landscapes and architectural designs for communities.
- Company: Gillespies LLP, a creative design studio with over 60 years of experience.
- Benefits: Freelance flexibility, collaborative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on projects that balance creativity, people, and nature.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in architecture or landscape architecture; strong design portfolio required.
- Other info: Embrace digital innovation and work with cutting-edge design tools.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
We are Gillespies LLP, a diverse and free-thinking design studio working across landscape architecture, architecture, masterplanning and urban design. For more than 60 years, we have continued to learn, adapt and evolve. We believe that great places are created when creativity, people and nature are thoughtfully balanced. While technology can support design thinking, it is human insight, cultural understanding and storytelling that shape environments people truly connect with. Our work focuses on designing places where communities and nature coexist creating meaningful, resilient and inspiring environments.
Role Overview
We are seeking designers with a background in either architecture or landscape architecture to join us on a freelance / contract basis, supporting project teams across UK and international commissions. This role is suitable for early-career to mid-level designers who are eager to develop their professional skills within a creative, collaborative studio environment. You will contribute to design work across project stages, supporting concept development, visualisation, technical design and delivery tasks.
What We Are Looking For
- Education and experience
- Minimum 2 years of professional experience in architecture, landscape architecture, or a closely related design discipline
- Degree and postgraduate qualification in architecture, landscape architecture, or equivalent design field
- Professional accreditation (such as CMLI, ARB, or international equivalent) is desirable but not essential
- Portfolio
- Your portfolio should demonstrate a range of design work, including:
- Concept design and sketch development
- Visual communication and presentation graphics
- Development of technical or construction-related design (external works) material where possible
- Technical and Design Skills
- Proficiency in CAD-based design workflows (such as AutoCAD or equivalent software)
- Strong working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and 2D/3D design tools such as SketchUp, Revit or BIM
- Ability to develop ideas from early concept through to more detailed design stages
- Experience working within UK practice context is highly desirable
- Digital Innovation and Emerging Design Tools
- We are particularly interested in candidates who are curious about how technology is shaping contemporary design practice.
- AI-assisted design and visualisation workflows
- Data-informed design research and optimisation
- Experimentation with emerging digital tools in a design-led environment
- Improving creative and project efficiency through technology
- Freelance Working Considerations
- 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
- Essential Software List
- 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 Software (based on project requirements)
- Autodesk Revit
- Autodesk Navisworks & Manager
- ArcGIS Desktop Pro
- Autodesk Civil 3D
- Sketch-up Pro
- Google Earth Pro
- NBS Chorus
- Rhino
- Personal Qualities
- Creative and curious design thinker
- Enthusiastic learner open to new approaches
- Collaborative team player
- Passionate about high-quality place-making and spatial design
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Adaptable, proactive and resilient
How to Apply
If you believe you are a suitable match for this opportunity, please submit your CV and portfolio using the Apply For This Job button above.
Equal Opportunities
Gillespies LLP is an equal opportunities employer.
Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) - Freelancer in Oxford employer: Gillespies
Contact Detail:
Gillespies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) - Freelancer in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio in tip-top shape! Make sure it showcases your best work, especially projects that highlight your creativity and technical skills. Remember, this is your chance to tell your story visually, so let your personality shine through!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend design events, workshops, or even online webinars where you can meet industry folks. Don’t be shy—chat with people, share your passion for landscape architecture, and who knows, you might just land a freelance gig!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your tech-savvy side! Gillespies LLP is keen on candidates who embrace digital tools. Brush up on your CAD skills and explore AI-assisted design workflows. Being ahead of the curve can really set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application noticed. Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect how your skills align with what Gillespies LLP is looking for. Let’s get you that freelance role!
We think you need these skills to ace Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) - Freelancer in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Portfolio: Your portfolio is your chance to shine! Make sure it showcases a variety of your best work, from concept sketches to technical designs. We want to see how you think and create, so let your creativity flow!
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send the same CV everywhere! Tailor it to highlight your relevant experience in architecture or landscape architecture. Mention any specific projects that align with what we do at Gillespies LLP to grab our attention.
Be Authentic in Your Story: We love hearing about your journey! When you write your application, share your story and what drives your passion for design. Authenticity goes a long way in making a connection with us.
Apply Through Our Website: Make it easy for us to find you! Apply through our website using the 'Apply For This Job' button. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gillespies
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best work. Include a variety of projects that demonstrate your skills in concept design, visual communication, and technical design. Be ready to discuss the thought process behind each piece and how it aligns with the values of Gillespies LLP.
✨Know Your Software
Familiarise yourself with the essential software listed in the job description, especially AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite. Be prepared to discuss your experience with these tools and how you've used them in past projects. If you have experience with emerging digital tools, make sure to mention that too!
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Gillespies LLP values teamwork, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles. Highlight your ability to adapt and contribute to a team environment, as well as any experiences where you’ve worked on interdisciplinary projects.
✨Express Your Curiosity
Show your enthusiasm for learning and exploring new design approaches. Discuss any recent trends in landscape architecture or technology that excite you, and how you see them influencing your work. This will demonstrate your passion for the field and your commitment to staying current in a rapidly evolving industry.