At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex design projects and create compelling architectural narratives.
- Company: Join SOM London, a dynamic design-led studio with a global reach.
- Benefits: Collaborate with top architects, enjoy a rich culture, and shape major projects.
- Other info: Diversity is celebrated here; we welcome unique perspectives to enrich our designs.
- Why this job: Make your mark in architecture while mentoring and guiding talented teams.
- Qualifications: 6+ years of design experience and a strong portfolio showcasing your work.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
SOM London is looking for a hands-on front-end designer with 6+ years’ experience and a clear record of leading the design of large, complex projects from initiation to schematic design.
A CV and portfolio demonstrating individual design authorship are mandatory.
The role is focused on originating strong architectural ideas, developing them with clarity and leading teams with cadence.
It requires someone who remains directly engaged in the work, combining design authorship with the ability to guide clients, collaborators and interdisciplinary teams.
The Role Lead large, complex projects from first principles through schematic design Generate, test and communicate compelling architectural ideas Build clear design narratives that connect concept, context, programme and experience Shape presentations with a strong editorial eye, clear visual hierarchy and persuasive storytelling Direct teams through concept and schematic design development Translate design ambition into coherent spatial, structural and material strategies Work closely with clients, consultants and SOM’s global studios Mentor designers and strengthen the studio’s culture of design authorship Experience At least 6 years’ experience leading design, not only project delivery A clear record of originating and developing architectural concepts through schematic design Strong judgement across form, programme, structure, material and context The ability to turn complex ideas into clear narratives and well-crafted presentations Experience presenting design ideas to senior clients and collaborators The ability to guide teams while remaining hands-on in the design process Professional registration is preferred.
Portfolio A portfolio and CV are mandatory.
The portfolio should clearly identify individual contributions and show the design process through sketches, diagrams, models, iterations, presentations and concept development through schematic design.
Final renders or completed project photography alone will not provide sufficient evidence of design authorship.
Why SOM London SOM London is a design-led studio working across disciplines, cultures and project types.
We are inter-disciplinary and work independently in the UK, Europe, India and the Middle East.
The role offers the opportunity to join a thriving studio with a rich culture, shape major projects, working with leading architects and engineers and build a distinct design voice within a global practice.
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.
Visit this page to learn more about SOM's employment policy and how to apply offline: For more about SOM: 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.
Designer in London employer: som
At SOM, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our focus on lifelong learning and the opportunity to work on transformative projects that make a real impact on communities and the planet. Located in a vibrant environment, we offer competitive salaries, comprehensive health benefits, and a supportive atmosphere where diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Designer in London
✨Get Your Portfolio Game On Point
As an aspiring architect, your portfolio is your golden ticket. Make sure it's not just a collection of your best work, but tells a story about your design process and creative thought. Showcase a range of projects, from conceptual sketches to final renderings—think of it as a visual CV!
✨Slide into Networking Events
Architecture thrives on community connections, so keep an eye out for local architecture meetups, exhibitions, and lectures. These events are gold for meeting industry professionals, and who knows? You might just bump into someone from som who can give you the insider scoop on their hiring process!
✨Learn the Software Inside Out
Make sure you're up to speed with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Being able to discuss your proficiency during interviews can really set you apart. Plus, if you can mention particular projects where you’ve used them, you’ll demonstrate both skill and practical experience.
✨Refine Your Interview Skills
Interviews for architecture roles can get quite technical, so practice answering questions about your design process and decision-making strategies. Prepare for potential design challenges they might put forward in interviews—show them you can think on your feet and come up with innovative solutions!
We think you need these skills to ace Designer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Architecture is all about creativity and technical skills, so make sure your portfolio is front and centre! Include a range of your best projects, showcasing different styles and techniques. Don't forget to explain your design process and the challenges you overcame for each project – it gives hiring managers a glimpse into your thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:When putting together your CV, highlight relevant experience in architectural design software, like AutoCAD or Revit. Plus, if you have any internships or coursework that involved real-world projects, be sure to mention them. We want to see not just what you've done, but how it relates directly to this role at som!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to som. Talk about specific projects or values of theirs you admire, and how you see yourself contributing to their team. We want to feel your enthusiasm – let it shine through your words!
Use Professional Terminology:Don't shy away from using industry-specific jargon that demonstrates your expertise! Terms like 'sustainability', 'scale', and 'aesthetics' can not only show your knowledge but also help you connect with the hiring team. Just ensure it's done in a way that's relatable and not overly technical, so we can see your passion clearly!
How to prepare for a job interview at som
✨Master the Technical Questions
In an architecture interview, be ready to tackle some technical questions about building codes, design principles, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of materials and components, as you might even face scenarios to solve during the interview that showcase your problem-solving skills in real-time.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure it not only showcases your best work but also highlights your design thinking process, from sketches to final outputs. During the interview, be prepared to discuss the projects in detail—what challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and what you learnt.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
In today's architecture landscape, sustainability is key. Be sure to highlight any projects that involved eco-friendly designs or your understanding of sustainable practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the trends but are genuinely passionate about creating a better future through your designs.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Architecture is a collaborative field, so showing that you're a team player is essential. When conversing with the interviewers, actively listen and respond to their ideas. This isn’t just about you showing off your skills, but also about connecting and demonstrating how well you’d fit into their team at som.
