Freelance Facade Designer
RedFish Solutions About the role
Freelance Façade Designer / Senior Architect (Revit)
Location: Remote / Hybrid (Europe preferred) Project: New School Development – Zurich, Switzerland Contract: Freelance Duration: Until End of 2026
We are seeking an experienced Façade Designer, Building Envelope Specialist, or Senior Architect with strong façade package experience to support the technical development of a major education project in Zurich.
Working alongside a commercial Design & Build team, you will take an existing Stage 2 façade concept and help develop the package through technical design, coordination, and system selection.
Key Responsibilities
- Review and assess the current façade design, elevations, sections, visualisations, and material proposals.
- Identify areas requiring further technical development, coordination, or clarification.
- Evaluate façade and cladding systems, recommending suitable solutions aligned with the architectural vision, programme, and budget.
- Develop façade grids, panelisation strategies, module sizes, and typical bay arrangements.
- Rationalise façade layouts while maintaining the architectural intent.
- Develop key façade details and interfaces, including corners, entrances, parapets, window surrounds, roof interfaces, and material transitions.
- Advise on buildability, durability, maintenance, and long-term performance.
- Support material, colour, texture, and finish selection.
- Provide technical input relating to thermal performance, weatherproofing, airtightness, moisture control, fire performance, acoustics, solar control, and façade robustness.
- Coordinate façade design with architects, structural engineers, MEP consultants, fire consultants, and sustainability specialists.
- Attend design workshops and technical coordination meetings.
- Review and mark up drawings, sketches, and technical information as required.
- Required Experience
- Proven experience delivering façade, cladding, or building envelope packages on large-scale projects.
- Strong understanding of façade systems, panelisation, detailing, and technical coordination.
- Experience developing projects through RIBA Stages 2–4.
- Excellent Revit and BIM capability.
- Experience coordinating with multidisciplinary design teams.
- Strong knowledge of construction detailing, buildability, and technical design development.
- Ability to work independently and provide clear technical recommendations.
Desirable Experience
- Education, university, public sector, commercial, mixed-use, or large residential projects.
- Experience working within Design & Build environments.
- Knowledge of European façade standards and high-performance building envelopes.
- Previous experience on international projects.
- Deliverables
- Technical review of the existing façade design.
- Assessment and recommendation of façade system options.
- Refined façade modules and panelisation principles.
- Typical façade sections, sketches, and detail development.
- Material, colour, and finish recommendations.
- Identification of key technical risks, decisions, and coordination requirements.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a high-profile international project and play a key role in shaping the technical delivery of a landmark education development
Your tasks
Design and develop innovative facades for a major education project in Zurich.
Your profile
Experience in facade design, strong Revit skills, and ability to collaborate with diverse teams.
What's also included
Flexible remote/hybrid work, competitive freelance rates, and the chance to shape landmark designs.
Tech stack & ways of working
Freelance Facade Designer employer: RedFish Solutions
RedFish Solutions is an exceptional employer located in Stevenage, offering a dynamic work environment where your organisational skills will shine as you support the Managing Director in delivering high-end developments. With a strong focus on employee growth and a close-knit team culture, we provide opportunities for professional development while ensuring a commitment to first-class client service. Join us to be part of a rewarding journey in the luxury homes sector, where your contributions truly matter.
View RedFish Solutions profile
Your perspectives
Make a real impact on an exciting educational development while enhancing your design skills.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
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!
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 RedFish Solutions. 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 RedFish Solutions, 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 RedFish Solutions
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 RedFish Solutions 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 RedFish Solutions. 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!
