At a Glance
- Tasks: Contribute to innovative architectural designs and collaborate with a diverse team.
- Company: Join SOM, a global leader in architecture and design.
- Benefits: Mentorship, global exposure, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and creativity.
- Why this job: Make an impact on transformative projects while developing your design skills.
- Qualifications: 3-7 years of experience in architectural design and proficiency in design tools.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
locations: London
time type: Full time
posted on: Posted Yesterday
time left to apply: End Date: February 17, 2026 (30+ days left to apply)
job requisition id: R-3892
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) is a collective of over 1,200 architects, designers, engineers, and planners working across studios in London, Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Hong Kong, Melbourne, Riyadh and Dubai.
We are seeking a talented Architectural Designer to join the SOM London Studio with a strong design voice eager to contribute to ambitious, global projects and grow within a highly collaborative, design-driven environment.
At the forefront of transformative architecture, SOM is guided by a shared commitment to design excellence, sustainability, and innovation. Our open studio culture empowers ideas to thrive across architecture, engineering, and urban design.
Your Impact
As a key contributor within project teams, you will support the development of design ideas from early concept through delivery working closely with senior designers, project leaders, and interdisciplinary collaborators.
You Will:
- Contribute to the design process across all project phases, from concept design through documentation and delivery.
- Develop design ideas through drawings, models, visualisations, and presentations with a strong focus on quality and clarity.
- Collaborate with architects, engineers, and consultants to resolve design challenges and support coordinated project outcomes.
- Participate in design reviews and critiques, contributing thoughtful input and creative problem-solving.
- Assist in the preparation of client presentations and design narratives that clearly communicate intent.
- Support a collaborative, inclusive, and design-led studio culture.
Who You Are
- An architectural designer with 3–7 years of professional experience, ideally on complex or large-scale projects.
- Professionally qualified or progressing toward qualification (RIBA Part III or international equivalent).
- Strong design sensibility with excellent graphic, conceptual, and technical skills.
- Proficient in relevant design and documentation tools (e.g. Rhino, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite).
- Passionate about sustainable, high-performance architecture and innovation in design.
- A clear communicator and engaged collaborator, eager to learn and grow within a global practice.
As part of our international studio network, you'll collaborate across offices, disciplines, and cultures, engaging with diverse perspectives to deliver design excellence on a global scale.
We don’t just offer a role, we will help you define your own career framework. We will support your growth as a design leader through mentorship, global exposure, and access to the firm’s most forward-thinking leadership. At SOM your ambition is matched by opportunity, and your ideas have a platform to influence the built environment at every scale.
Portfolio & CV Mandatory
At SOM, we welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace. We believe an inclusive environment benefits our employees, our firm, and our community, while also enriching and challenging our own thinking about design. We are proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.
Portfolios must be submitted for all design and project management positions (Architecture, Interiors, City Design, Graphics, etc). Applications without work samples will not be reviewed. Portfolios should be one PDF attachment, 10-20 pages, maximum 5 MB. Submit portfolios as part of your application in the section where the application asks you for your Resume or CV.
Intermediate Designer in London employer: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Llp (Som)
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, empowering designers to thrive in a dynamic environment. With a strong commitment to mentorship and professional growth, SOM offers unique opportunities for employees to engage in transformative architecture on a global scale, while championing sustainability and innovation. Located in London, the studio provides a vibrant setting where diverse perspectives are valued, ensuring that your contributions can significantly impact the built environment.
Contact Details:
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Llp (Som) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Intermediate Designer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the design world, attend industry events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s polished and showcases your best work. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, bring it along and be ready to discuss your design process and the stories behind your projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your skills align with their design philosophy and how you can contribute to their ambitious goals. Tailor your responses to reflect their values and culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that resonate with your design ethos. Use our website to find roles that excite you and fit your skills. A targeted approach shows genuine interest and increases your chances of landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Intermediate Designer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Portfolio:Make sure to include a strong portfolio with your application. It’s your chance to showcase your design skills and creativity, so pick your best work and present it clearly. Remember, we want to see your unique design voice!
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send out the same CV for every application. Tailor it to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the Intermediate Designer role. We love seeing how your background aligns with our projects and values.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your opportunity to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for SOM. Share your passion for sustainable architecture and how you can contribute to our collaborative culture. Keep it engaging and personal!
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, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Llp (Som)
✨Know Your Portfolio Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss every piece in your portfolio confidently. Highlight your design process, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This will show your depth of understanding and passion for your work.
✨Research SOM's Projects
Familiarise yourself with SOM's recent projects and their design philosophy. Be ready to discuss how your skills and experiences align with their approach to architecture and sustainability. This shows genuine interest and preparation.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about their collaborative processes or how they tackle design challenges. This demonstrates your engagement and eagerness to contribute to their team.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll be involved in client presentations, practice articulating your design ideas clearly and confidently. Use visual aids if possible, as this will help convey your concepts effectively and showcase your communication skills.