Project/Senior Architect - Heritage Project Lead

ZipRecruiter; City Of London; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An architecture firm in London is seeking a qualified architect to lead a Grade II listed project. Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience, particularly in heritage renovations, and be proficient in Vectorworks. This role offers the chance to influence a landmark project, with generous support and a collaborative culture focused on personal growth and design excellence.

Benefits

Mentorship from experienced directors

Supportive team environment

Opportunities for future advancement

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years post-Part III experience in architecture.
• Proven experience with heritage and listed building projects.
• Ability to resolve construction challenges effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead a landmark Grade II listed development project.
• Make key design and technical decisions.
• Collaborate with directors and junior team members.

Skills

Project leadership

Technical acumen

Design creativity

Vectorworks proficiency

Client interaction

Education

ARB/RIBA qualification

Tools

Vectorworks

Revit

Job description

Job Description

When you’re 5+ years into your architectural career, the projects you spearhead next can define your legacy.

At this stage, taking ownership of a complex, high-profile build is the catalyst that can elevate you from a capable architect to a true project leader.

Are you managing big projects in a large firm but craving more personal impact? Or perhaps running smaller jobs in a tiny studio but yearning for greater challenge and scale?

Why not have the best of both worlds?

Join a design-led boutique practice in London that punches above its weight. Here you’ll lead a Grade II Listed scheme in a prestigious central London district - a complex renovation blending historic character with modern functionality.

This is architecture at its most challenging and rewarding: navigating heritage constraints, innovative accessibility solutions, and sustainable design within an iconic setting.

The project is at Stage 1, so you’ll influence its direction from the outset and steer it through planning and delivery. Backed by a junior support team and hands-on directors, you’ll have the autonomy to make critical design and technical decisions - with expert mentorship whenever you need it.

Why This Studio?

• Boutique, international team - A close-knit group with an open, friendly culture that celebrates creativity and collaboration. You won’t be a cog in a machine here; your ideas will shape projects.
• Design ethos of craftsmanship & innovation - The practice is known for blending traditional artisanship with contemporary design to create buildings that delight users and stand the test of time. Their bespoke, detail-driven approach has earned them features in leading design publications.
• Diverse and impactful projects - From elegant private homes and adaptive reuse projects to creative commercial and community spaces, their portfolio is varied and award-winning. Primarily UK-based work with a growing international outlook means exposure to different scales and typologies.
• Direct collaboration with leadership - Work side-by-side with the directors (accomplished architects who champion quality and detail). No bureaucracy - just high standards and a shared vision to deliver architecture done well.
• Growth and stability - This is a permanent role in a growing practice with a healthy pipeline. As you help deliver this landmark project, you’ll be positioning yourself for future senior opportunities (potentially an Associate role as the studio expands).

Who We're Looking For:

• Qualified Architect (ARB/RIBA) with at least 5 years post-Part III experience and proven project leadership in the UK.
• Heritage project experience - You have worked on listed building renovations or similarly complex, context-sensitive projects. You understand the intricacies of planning permission and conservation requirements.
• Technical and design prowess - A true all-rounder who can balance design creativity with technical acumen. You anticipate construction challenges and compliance issues, and can devise smart solutions without compromising design integrity. (You’re as comfortable resolving a tricky detail as you are sketching a concept).
• Vectorworks proficiency essential, Revit desirable - Skilled in Vectorworks software (this is essential, as the studio is currently delivering projects in Vectorworks, although Revit software is being introduced to the studio).
• Leadership & communication - Experience coordinating consultants, interacting with clients and authorities, and guiding junior team members. You can drive a project forward and bring others along with clarity and enthusiasm.
• Fully eligible to work in the UK and ready to join a London-based team.

Your Next Chapter Includes:

• Ownership of a career-defining project - Take the lead on a landmark Grade II listed development from day one. This is a rare chance to run a complex project across all RIBA stages, elevating your portfolio.
• Creative autonomy with support - Enjoy the freedom to make key design and technical decisions, while benefitting from mentorship by award-winning directors and the help of a talented junior team.
• Collaborative, empowering culture - Be part of an open, international studio that values work-life balance, open communication, and personal growth. Your contributions will be recognised, and your development nurtured.
• Influence on design excellence - Work at a practice that truly cares about materials, details, and sustainability. You’ll have a say in shaping thoughtful, crafted architecture that has a lasting impact on its users and environment.

How to Apply:

Send your CV to Grõ Careers by hitting the apply button. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to share a concise portfolio. Additional role and project details will be shared discreetly with shortlisted candidates only.