At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a freelance designer, creating inspiring landscapes and architecture.
- Company: Gillespies LLP, a creative design studio with over 60 years of experience.
- Benefits: Flexible freelance role with opportunities to enhance your skills in a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Embrace digital innovation and work with cutting-edge design tools.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities and nature through innovative design.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in architecture or landscape architecture; strong design portfolio required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Gillespies LLP is 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.
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:
- 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. You should demonstrate interest in:
- 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:
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 Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) - Freelancer employer: Gillespies
At Gillespies LLP, we pride ourselves on being a forward-thinking design studio that fosters creativity and collaboration in a supportive environment. As a freelancer, you will have the opportunity to work on diverse projects that blend architecture and landscape design, while benefiting from our commitment to professional growth and innovation. Our culture encourages exploration of new technologies and design methodologies, making it an ideal place for designers eager to make a meaningful impact in their field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Remote Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) - Freelancer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow designers, join online forums, and attend industry events. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that freelance gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it highlights your best work, especially projects that align with what Gillespies LLP is looking for. A strong portfolio can speak volumes about our skills and creativity.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on design trends and tech! Being knowledgeable about AI-assisted design and emerging tools can set us apart from the competition. It shows we're not just following the crowd but leading the way.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get noticed by the team at Gillespies LLP. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining their creative community.
We think you need these skills to ace Remote Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) - Freelancer
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 include projects that highlight your skills in both architecture and landscape architecture.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect our values and the specific role. Mention your experience with CAD tools and any innovative design methods you've used, as we love seeing how you can bring creativity and technology together.
Be Yourself:We’re all about creativity and individuality, so let your personality shine through in your application. Share your story and what drives your passion for design. We want to know what makes you tick and how you connect with nature and communities through your work.
Apply Through Our Website:Ready to take the plunge? Make sure you apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting freelance 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 Tools
Familiarise yourself with the essential software mentioned in the job description, like AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite. During the interview, be prepared to discuss your experience with these tools and how you've used them in past projects. Showing confidence in your technical skills can really set you apart.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Gillespies LLP values a collaborative studio environment, so highlight any experiences where you've worked effectively within a team. Share examples of how you contributed to group projects and how you handle feedback. This will show that you're not just a talented designer but also a great team player.
✨Stay Curious About Innovation
Express your interest in how technology is shaping design practices. Talk about any experiences you have with AI-assisted design or emerging digital tools. This shows that you're not only skilled but also eager to learn and adapt, which is crucial for a freelance role in a dynamic field.
