At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to create inspiring landscapes and architectural designs for communities worldwide.
- Company: Gillespies LLP, a creative design studio with over 60 years of experience.
- Benefits: Freelance flexibility, opportunity to work on diverse projects, and professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on digital innovation and emerging design tools.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by blending creativity, nature, and technology in your designs.
- 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 in Suffolk 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 in Suffolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow designers, attend industry events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on freelance opportunities at Gillespies LLP.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it highlights your best work, especially projects that align with landscape architecture or urban design. Tailor it to showcase your skills in concept development and visualisation, as these are key for us.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on design tech! Familiarise yourself with the latest tools and trends, like AI-assisted design and data-informed workflows. This will not only impress us but also enhance your creative process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our creative team at Gillespies LLP.
We think you need these skills to ace Remote Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) - Freelancer in Suffolk
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 practices you've explored, as we love seeing candidates who are curious about technology.
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 to 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 relates to the role.
✨Research Gillespies LLP
Before the interview, take some time to learn about Gillespies LLP and their design philosophy. Understand their approach to balancing creativity, people, and nature. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their vision.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about your proficiency with design software like AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and any 3D tools you’ve used. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be prepared to discuss specific projects where you utilised these tools effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Curiosity
Gillespies LLP values innovation, so be ready to talk about how you stay updated with emerging design tools and technologies. Share any experiences you have with AI-assisted design or data-informed research, as this shows your eagerness to adapt and grow in the field.
