At a Glance
- Tasks: Contribute to innovative architectural designs from concept to delivery.
- Company: Join a global leader in architecture with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Mentorship, global exposure, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment that values creativity and innovation.
- 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.
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.
Why Join Us?
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
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, employees are encouraged to define their career paths while contributing to innovative, sustainable architecture on a global scale. Joining the London studio means being part of a diverse team that values creativity and offers unique opportunities to influence the built environment.
Contact Details:
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Intermediate Designer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio in tip-top shape! Make sure it showcases your best work and reflects your design sensibility. Remember, quality over quantity – a well-curated selection of projects can speak volumes.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend design events, workshops, or even casual meet-ups. Connecting with industry folks can open doors and give you insights into opportunities that might not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to talk about your design process and how you tackle challenges. A clear and confident communication style can set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at SOM. Don’t forget to tailor your application to highlight your passion for sustainable architecture!
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 the same CV for every application. Tailor it to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. 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 the role. Be genuine, express your passion for architecture, and explain how you can contribute to our collaborative culture. Let your personality shine through!
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
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best work. Since this role is all about design, your portfolio should clearly demonstrate your design sensibility and technical skills. Tailor it to include projects that align with SOM's focus on sustainability and innovation.
✨Research SOM's Projects
Before the interview, dive into SOM's recent projects and initiatives. Understanding their design philosophy and current work will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals. Be ready to discuss specific projects that resonate with you.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Given the collaborative nature of the role, think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked in a team. Be prepared to discuss how you resolved design challenges and contributed to project outcomes. This will show your ability to thrive in a team-oriented environment.
✨Practice Clear Communication
As a designer, being able to communicate your ideas effectively is crucial. Practice explaining your design concepts and processes clearly and concisely. This will be especially important during design reviews and client presentations, so make sure you can convey your intent with confidence.
