At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to design inspiring landscapes and architecture for communities worldwide.
- Company: Gillespies LLP, a creative design studio with over 60 years of experience.
- Benefits: Freelance flexibility, creative collaboration, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Embrace digital innovation and work with cutting-edge 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
- 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. 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 York 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 also 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 York
✨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’s up-to-date and highlights your best work. We want to see your creativity and technical skills shine through, so tailor it to the roles you’re applying for.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and their projects. We should be ready to discuss how our skills align with their vision and how we can contribute to creating inspiring environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Remote Designer (Landscape Architect / Architect) - Freelancer in York
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 pieces 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 techniques you've used, especially if they relate to AI or digital tools.
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:Make it easy for us to find your application by applying directly through our website. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
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.
✨Research the Company
Before the interview, take some time to learn about Gillespies LLP and their approach to landscape architecture and urban design. Understanding their philosophy on balancing creativity, people, and nature will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about your proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and any 3D design tools you’ve used. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be prepared to discuss how you've applied these tools in past projects, especially in a UK context.
✨Demonstrate Your Curiosity
Gillespies LLP values innovation and curiosity about technology in design. Be ready to share your thoughts on AI-assisted design, data-informed research, or any emerging tools you've experimented with. Showing your enthusiasm for integrating technology into your design practice can set you apart from other candidates.
