At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative design projects and mentor junior designers in a dynamic freelance role.
- Company: Join Gillespies LLP, a top landscape architecture studio known for transformative designs.
- Benefits: Flexible freelance work, 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 award-winning projects while exploring cutting-edge design technologies.
- Qualifications: 4+ years in landscape architecture or related fields; strong design portfolio required.
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 & Manager, ArcGIS Desktop Pro, Autodesk Civil 3D, Sketch-up Pro, Google Earth Pro, NBS Chorus, Rhino.
What we are looking for
Experience and qualifications:
- Minimum 4 years of professional experience in landscape architecture, architecture, or related design fields
- Degree and postgraduate qualification in landscape architecture, architecture, or equivalent design discipline
- Professional accreditation such as CMLI (or equivalent international qualification) is desirable but not essential
Portfolio and technical capability:
- Your portfolio should demonstrate a broad range of work, including conceptual design and sketch development, detailed technical design and construction-stage output (for external works), experience delivering projects through planning, tender or site stages.
- Work within UK practice context is highly advantageous.
Software and communication skills:
- Strong proficiency in CAD-based design workflows (e.g. AutoCAD or equivalent)
- Excellent working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and 3D design tools such as SketchUp, Revit and BIM
- Excellent written and spoken English communication
Leadership and collaboration:
- Ability to contribute to or lead complex design tasks
- Experience guiding or mentoring junior team members
- Confidence engaging with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary consultants
Personal qualities:
- Creative and strategic design thinker
- Curious about new design approaches and emerging technologies
- Resilient, adaptable and proactive
- Passionate about high-quality landscape and place-led design
- Self-motivated with strong professional judgement
How to apply:
If you believe you are a good match for this opportunity, please submit your CV and portfolio using the Apply For This Job button above.
Remote Senior/Principal Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) Freelance in Scunthorpe employer: Gillespies
Gillespies LLP is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to creating transformative and sustainable environments that enhance community well-being. With a collaborative work culture that fosters creativity and innovation, employees are encouraged to grow through mentorship and exposure to pioneering projects both in the UK and internationally. The freelance nature of this role offers flexibility while allowing designers to engage with cutting-edge digital tools and contribute to meaningful design solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Remote Senior/Principal Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) Freelance in Scunthorpe
✨Get Your Work Showcased
As a freelance architect, having a stunning portfolio is a must. Let’s ensure you're showcasing your best designs online, maybe through a personal website or platforms like Behance. Keep it updated with recent projects, even the little ones, so potential clients get a feel for your style!
✨Network in the Right Places
Join local architecture firms and freelance groups on Facebook or LinkedIn. Participating in architecture-related community events or meetups is also crucial. You never know when a conversation might lead to your next project or client!
✨Leverage Your Local Connections
Tap into your local community by visiting city council meetings or regional architecture exhibitions. This is where you can get to know potential clients, builders, and other architects, and establish yourself as a go-to freelancer for their projects.
✨Use Our Website Effectively
When looking for freelance gigs, don't forget to check out our website regularly. It’s a great hub for architecture opportunities and networking prospects. Plus, if you find something interesting, just remember to apply - we’re rooting for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Remote Senior/Principal Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) Freelance in Scunthorpe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Creative Portfolio:For a freelance architecture gig like this, your portfolio needs to shine! Include your best projects showcasing your design style, technical skills, and any innovative concepts. Make sure to present a variety of work that highlights your versatility—clients love to see how you can tackle different design challenges.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Software Knowledge:In architecture, specific skills and software proficiency can set you apart. Be sure to mention your experience with design tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit in your CV. Don't forget to include any certifications or training you've completed that pertain to architecture—it shows commitment to your craft!
Tailor Your Proposal to Each Project:When applying for freelance positions, tailoring your proposal is key to getting noticed. Take the time to address how your skills and portfolio match the specific project by Gillespies. Clients want to know what unique value you bring to the table, so let your personality shine through in your writing!
Be Clear About Your Availability and Rates:Being freelance means you need to be upfront about your availability and rates. In your application to Gillespies, mention how many hours you can dedicate to the project and your hourly or project-based fees. This readiness helps both you and the client set clear expectations from the start.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gillespies
✨Showcase Your Creative Portfolio
When we’re dealing with architecture, your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure you've curated a selection of your best work that truly showcases your style and versatility. Have it organised—think projects that demonstrate your skills in different areas, whether it’s sustainable design or urban planning. Be ready to discuss the thought process behind each piece!
✨Master Your Software Skills
Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit is often a must in architecture. Be ready to chat about specific projects where you utilised these tools, and if possible, demonstrate your competence. Maybe even bring your laptop along to show a quick digital sketch or model you’ve worked on—that can really impress!
✨Pitch Your Unique Value
As a freelancer, you’re not just applying for a job; you’re essentially pitching yourself as a brand. Think about what makes you different—whether it’s a unique design philosophy, a specific project experience, or a knack for client collaboration. Be prepared to discuss how you can add value to Gillespies and why they should choose you over others.
✨Understand the Client's Vision
Before the interview, take a moment to explore any projects or vision statements from Gillespies. Think about how your style and past projects align with their work. Keeping the conversation fluid and showing that you 'get' their goals can create a solid connection and position you as a perfect fit for their freelance needs!
