At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative architectural projects from concept to completion in a collaborative studio.
- Company: Join Adam Knibb Architects, an award-winning RIBA-chartered practice in Winchester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 20+ days leave, professional development support, and genuine project ownership.
- Why this job: Shape beautiful, contemporary homes while enjoying a balanced lifestyle in a vibrant city.
- Qualifications: ARB registered Architect with 5+ years experience and strong design portfolio.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace welcoming diverse backgrounds passionate about quality architecture.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Adam Knibb Architects is seeking an experienced, design‑led architect to join our award‑winning studio in Winchester. This is a senior role for someone who is equally passionate about contemporary design and confident in delivering projects through to completion. If you are excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we’d still love to hear from you as the right fit may be more important.
About Us
Adam Knibb Architects is a RIBA‑chartered practice specialising in high‑quality contemporary architecture. We primarily design bespoke new homes, transformative extensions, and carefully considered refurbishments across Hampshire and the South of England. Our portfolio also includes developer‑led projects and, on occasion, commercial projects. Our work is driven by strong conceptual clarity, refined detailing, and a belief that architecture should be both beautiful and personal, underpinned by high‑quality craftsmanship. We work closely with private clients who are invested in design quality, and we pride ourselves on guiding them through a collaborative and rigorous process. As a small, focused studio, we offer genuine involvement at every stage of a project. Every member of the team contributes meaningfully to design discussions, technical development, and helps shape the direction of the practice.
The Opportunity
This role offers the chance to take ownership of projects from inception to completion. You will lead bespoke residential schemes through all RIBA work stages — from early concept design and planning strategy to on‑site delivery and contract administration. We are looking for someone who combines:
- Strong architectural design ability
- Technical confidence and construction knowledge
- Leadership and project management experience
- A calm, professional presence with clients and consultants
This is an opportunity to shape thoughtful, contemporary homes and play a key role in a growing practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead projects independently across all RIBA stages
- Develop and present strong conceptual proposals aligned with client aspirations
- Prepare and coordinate planning applications and building regulations packages
- Oversee detailed technical design and specification
- Manage consultant teams, including structural engineers and specialist advisors
- Administer building contracts and undertake regular site inspections
- Maintain project programmes, budgets, and quality standards
- Mentor and supervise junior members of the team
- Resourcing projects to maximise team efficiencies
- Contribute to the ongoing development and culture of the studio
About You
- ARB registered Architect
- 5+ years post‑Part III experience
- Commercial practice awareness
- Proven experience delivering UK projects through to completion
- Demonstrable ability to run projects independently
- Strong design portfolio showing contemporary work (private, residential experience would be an advantage)
- Excellent technical knowledge of UK construction and detailing
- Experience in contract administration
- Proficiency in Vectorworks (preferred) or equivalent CAD software
- Clear communicator with strong organisational skills
- Confident working within a small, collaborative team
We are particularly interested in architects who care deeply about proportion, materiality, light, and spatial quality — and who understand that technical resolution is as important as conceptual clarity.
Why Winchester?
Our studio is based in the heart of Winchester — widely regarded as one of the most desirable and architecturally rich cities in the South of England. Winchester offers:
- A strong architectural context, from historic fabric to contemporary interventions
- A thriving design and construction community across Hampshire and the South Coast
- Excellent rail links to London (approx. 1 hour)
- Access to the South Downs National Park and coastline
- A high quality of life balancing culture, landscape and connectivity
For architects considering a move from London or other major cities, Winchester provides the opportunity to work on ambitious, design‑led projects while enjoying a more balanced lifestyle.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary dependent on experience
- 20+ days annual leave + bank holidays (TBC)
- Support for CPD and professional development
- Genuine project ownership and responsibility
- A collaborative, design‑focused studio environment
- Long‑term growth opportunity within the practice
- A positive working culture that values quality
We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from architects of all backgrounds who share our passion for well‑crafted contemporary homes. To apply, please use the ‘Apply Now’ button with your CV, a concise portfolio (max 10 MB) demonstrating your residential experience, and a short cover letter outlining your interest in the role and stating your salary expectations.
Experienced Architect in Winchester employer: RIBA Journal
Contact Detail:
RIBA Journal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Experienced Architect in Winchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend architecture events, workshops, and local meet-ups in Winchester. It's a great way to connect with industry folks and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it highlights your best contemporary designs. Bring it along to interviews or share it digitally when you chat with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Adam Knibb Architects. Understand their projects and values so you can discuss how your experience aligns with their vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love hearing from passionate architects who want to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Experienced Architect in Winchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills: Make sure your portfolio highlights your best contemporary designs. We want to see your creativity and how you approach projects, so pick pieces that really showcase your style and technical know-how.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Let us know why you're excited about this role and how your experience aligns with our values. Don’t be shy—show us your passion for architecture and design!
Be Honest About Your Experience: If you don’t tick every box in the job description, don’t sweat it! We’re looking for the right fit, so share your unique experiences and how they can contribute to our team. We love a good story!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important details. Plus, we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at RIBA Journal
✨Know Your Portfolio Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your design portfolio in detail. Highlight specific projects that showcase your contemporary design skills and how you've led them from inception to completion. Be ready to explain your thought process and the challenges you faced.
✨Understand the Company’s Design Philosophy
Familiarise yourself with Adam Knibb Architects' work and their approach to architecture. This will help you align your answers with their values, especially regarding craftsmanship and client collaboration. Show that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for their studio culture.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Brush up on your technical knowledge of UK construction and detailing. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve managed projects through all RIBA stages, including planning applications and contract administration. This will demonstrate your confidence and expertise in the field.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Since this is a senior role, be ready to talk about your experience in leading teams and mentoring junior architects. Share examples of how you've successfully managed consultant teams and maintained project quality, budgets, and timelines. This will highlight your project management capabilities.