At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Summer Internship to work on innovative architectural projects and develop your design skills.
- Company: Zaha Hadid Architects, a leader in transformative architecture and design.
- Benefits: Reimbursed lunch and travel expenses during the internship.
- Other info: Internship runs from 1st to 25th September 2026 in London.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience and mentorship from world-class architects in a creative environment.
- Qualifications: Currently studying architecture or holding relevant qualifications; must be proactive and collaborative.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
ZHA is seeking ambitious and talented junior architects and students to join our one‑month Summer Internship Programme 2026. We’re looking for the next generation of designers ready to contribute their unique perspectives to our global portfolio of projects. Based in our London studio, this internship offers an opportunity to develop your skills under the mentorship of our world‑class architects and designers. You’ll gain hands‑on experience, drawing inspiration from ZHA’s commitment to experimentation, innovation, and the creation of transformative, contextually responsive spaces.
Your profile
- Currently enrolled in an architecture degree or holding a Part 1 or Part 2 qualification (or equivalent).
- Able to commute to our London office for the full duration of the internship.
- A proactive, curious, and resilient self‑starter with a passion for learning and creative problem‑solving.
- Collaborative, communicative, and conscientious in your approach to teamwork and design.
- Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK for the full duration of the internship (e.g., existing right‑to‑work status, student visa with permitted full‑time work, or graduate visa).
Skills Required
We are looking for candidates with a strong command of analytical tools and both 2D and 3D design software. You should demonstrate proficiency in:
- Rhinoceros
- Grasshopper
Additionally, you should be competent with:
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Microsoft Office
The following software skills are advantageous but not essential:
- Autodesk Maya
- Revit
- Autodesk AutoCAD
How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter, CV and portfolio as part of your application.
Additional Information
- Internship Cohort start date: 1st September – 25th September 2026.
- Compensation: Lunch and travel expenses will be reimbursed during your internship placement.
Summer 2026 Internship employer: ZHA
Zaha Hadid Architects is an exceptional employer for aspiring architects, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant and innovative work culture within our London studio. As part of our Summer Internship Programme, you will benefit from hands-on experience and mentorship from world-class professionals, while also enjoying the dynamic atmosphere of one of the world's leading architectural firms. With a focus on creativity and collaboration, we are committed to fostering your growth and development in the field of architecture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Summer 2026 Internship
✨Get Involved with Local Architecture Events
Join local architecture events and workshops happening in your area. It’s a fab way to meet industry professionals, showcase your passion, and maybe even snag an internship at a firm like ZHA! Keep an eye out for events hosted by architecture schools or organisations; they often have networking opportunities specifically for students.
✨Utilise University Career Services
Most universities have career services dedicated to helping students find internships. Book an appointment and ask about partnerships with local firms. They might even have exclusive openings at places like ZHA that you won’t find anywhere else!
✨Show Off Your Portfolio Online
Make sure your portfolio is up-to-date and find a way to showcase it online. Platforms like Behance or even a simple personal website can help your work stand out. Remember, a visually appealing portfolio can catch the eye of firms looking for interns!
✨Connect Via Architecture Social Media Groups
Hop onto social media platforms and join architecture-focused groups. These communities often share internship openings and valuable insights into the industry. Plus, engaging with others can help you build connections that might lead you to ZHA or similar firms!
We think you need these skills to ace Summer 2026 Internship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:As you apply for an internship in architecture, make sure to include a solid portfolio showcasing your design projects, sketches, and models. We want to see your creative flair and understanding of design principles. If you’ve worked on any group projects or personal ventures, throw those in too!
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Architectural Knowledge:Highlight specific architectural software you’re proficient in, like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit on your CV. We love seeing relevant coursework or projects that align with the role, so include specific modules or experiences that have developed your skills in this field.
Craft a Passionate Cover Letter:When writing your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for architecture and your eagerness to learn. Remember, we’re looking for interns with potential—not just experience—so share what excites you about the field and how you can contribute to ZHA.
Research and Reflect:Before submitting your application, take time to research ZHA and their architectural style or recent projects. Reflect this understanding in your application to showcase your genuine interest in the firm. It’ll make you stand out and show that you’re not just sending out generic applications.
How to prepare for a job interview at ZHA
✨Showcase Your Design Skills
Bring along a well-rounded portfolio that highlights your design projects and sketches. Don't just show the final product – include the thought process and iterations that led you there. This will demonstrate your ability to think critically and creatively, which is key in architecture.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about architectural concepts and tools like AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp. Be ready to discuss your familiarity with these programmes and how you’ve used them in your projects. We want to see how you approach problem-solving in a design context, so brush up on design principles as well.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Learning
As an intern, they're looking for your motivation and eagerness to learn. Be prepared to talk about your favourite architectural styles or influential architects and how they inspire you. Share any recent architectural trends you've been following, showing that you’re always growing your knowledge in the field.
✨Engage in Site Visits and Real-World Scenarios
If you can, ask questions about ongoing projects or past ones the firm has worked on. This not only shows your interest, but it also gives you the chance to discuss how theoretical knowledge applies to real-world situations in architecture. Plus, it shows that you’re keen to get out there and see how things actually function on site!
