Senior Design Architect - Heritage & Conservation

Placements24; O Mente; On-site; EUR 38,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, seeks a Senior Design Architect specializing in heritage conservation to lead design teams on restoration, adaptive reuse, and the conservation of historic buildings.

You will conduct site assessments, research historical contexts, develop conservation strategies, prepare drawings and specifications, and liaise with heritage authorities to ensure compliant, thoughtful interventions.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture with a specialization in Heritage Conservation.
• Minimum 7 years of heritage architecture and conservation experience.
• Demonstrated experience in conservation, restoration and adaptive reuse.
• Knowledge of heritage legislation and policies in South Africa.
• SACAP registration is required; postgraduate heritage management is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and planning of heritage conservation and adaptive reuse projects.
• Conduct site assessments and historical research for heritage buildings.
• Develop conservation strategies, restoration plans and proposals.
• Prepare architectural drawings, specifications and conservation reports.
• Ensure interventions comply with heritage guidelines and regulations.
• Collaborate with heritage consultants, engineers and craftspeople.
• Mentor junior architects and technicians in heritage conservation.

Skills

Heritage conservation

Leadership

Site analysis

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Education

Master's in Architecture (Heritage Conservation)

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialized architectural firm renowned for its expertise in heritage conservation and adaptive reuse projects, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Design Architect for their office in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role is dedicated to the sensitive restoration, conservation, and revitalization of historical buildings and sites. You will lead design teams in understanding the historical significance, structural integrity, and material properties of heritage structures, developing innovative yet respectful architectural interventions. The ideal candidate will possess a deep passion for heritage architecture, coupled with strong technical skills in conservation techniques and materials, as well as proficiency in contemporary design principles for adaptive reuse. You will play a critical role in preserving the region's architectural legacy while integrating modern functionality and sustainability. This is a unique opportunity to work on culturally significant projects, contributing to the preservation and enhancement of built heritage in Queenstown and the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and planning of heritage conservation and adaptive reuse projects.
• Conduct detailed site assessments and historical research for heritage buildings.
• Develop conservation strategies, restoration plans, and adaptive reuse proposals.
• Prepare detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and conservation reports.
• Ensure all interventions comply with heritage guidelines, regulations, and best practices.
• Collaborate with heritage consultants, structural engineers, and specialist craftspeople.
• Manage project documentation, including photographic records and material analysis reports.
• Oversee site work, ensuring that conservation principles are strictly adhered to during construction.
• Liaise with heritage authorities, clients, and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
• Mentor junior architects and technicians in the field of heritage conservation.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture or a related field with a specialization in Heritage Conservation.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience, with a significant focus on heritage architecture and conservation projects.
• Demonstrated experience in the conservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of historical buildings.
• In-depth knowledge of heritage conservation principles, materials, and techniques.
• Proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and illustration tools.
• Understanding of relevant heritage legislation and policies in South Africa.
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, reporting, and presentation abilities.
• Ability to manage complex projects and work collaboratively with diverse teams.
• SACAP registration is required, with postgraduate qualifications in heritage management being a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits including medical aid and retirement fund, and significant opportunities for professional development in the specialized field of heritage conservation. This role offers the chance to work on intrinsically rewarding projects in Queenstown, Eastern Cape , contributing directly to the preservation of cultural heritage. You will join a passionate and expert team within a well-respected firm that values meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design.