Lead Architectural Designer - Commercial & Retail

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Architectural Designer to oversee concept development for retail and hospitality spaces in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will guide a design team, translate client briefs into standout branding-driven environments, and ensure projects meet performance and regulatory standards.

The role blends on-site collaboration with flexible remote work within a hybrid framework, offering opportunities to shape premier commercial spaces.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or Interior Design.
• 10+ years of experience in architectural or interior design in commercial/retail.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing design projects and teams.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Rhino and Adobe Creative Suite.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual design and creative direction for commercial and retail projects.
• Develop design strategies to enhance brand identity and customer experience.
• Create mood boards, sketches and 3D visualizations for presentations.
• Mentor and manage a team of architectural designers.
• Collaborate with clients, marketing teams and project managers to define scope and vision.
• Ensure designs are viable, compliant with regulations and technically sound.
• Oversee detailed design documentation including layouts and finishes.
• Conduct site surveys to inform design development.
• Stay updated on retail design trends and material innovations.
• Integrate architectural design with interior design and branding elements.

Skills

Leadership experience

Conceptual design

Branding principles

Customer journey mapping

Communication/presentation

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or Interior Design

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Rhino

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and award-winning architectural firm specializing in commercial and retail environments, is seeking an innovative Lead Architectural Designer. This key role, based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, will oversee the conceptual design and development of engaging and functional commercial spaces, including retail centres, flagship stores, and hospitality venues. You will lead a design team, driving creative excellence and ensuring that projects meet both client objectives and market demands. The ideal candidate is a visionary designer with a strong understanding of branding, customer experience, and spatial planning in commercial contexts. This hybrid role requires on-site presence for team collaboration and client interaction in Nelspruit, with flexibility for remote work.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptual design and creative direction for commercial and retail architectural projects.
• Develop innovative design strategies that enhance brand identity and customer experience.
• Create compelling design presentations, mood boards, sketches, and 3D visualizations.
• Manage and mentor a team of architectural designers, fostering a collaborative and inspiring work environment.
• Collaborate closely with clients, marketing teams, and project managers to define project scope and design vision.
• Ensure designs are commercially viable, practical, and adhere to building regulations and technical requirements.
• Oversee the development of detailed design documentation, including layouts, finishes, and bespoke elements.
• Conduct site surveys and analyses to inform design development.
• Stay updated on retail design trends, material innovations, and emerging technologies.
• Ensure seamless integration of architectural design with interior design and branding elements.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or Interior Design.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in architectural or interior design, with a strong portfolio in commercial and retail sectors.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing design projects and teams.
• Exceptional conceptual design skills and a strong aesthetic sensibility.
• Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong understanding of retail strategy, branding principles, and customer journey mapping.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to translate client briefs and brand requirements into innovative design solutions.
• Experience in managing project timelines and deliverables within a design context.
• Passion for creating memorable and impactful commercial spaces.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package and performance-based incentives. Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits are provided. Opportunities for professional development, including attending industry conferences and workshops, are encouraged. The firm fosters a creative, dynamic, and collaborative work culture. This hybrid role offers the exciting opportunity to shape leading commercial and retail environments in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, and beyond.