Lead Retail And Commercial Architect

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Remote-first work model

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Retail and Commercial Architect to steer design for retail stores, shopping centers, offices, and hospitality venues. You will translate brand identities into functional, high-performance spaces while collaborating with clients, marketing teams and developers.

This remote-first role offers flexibility to work from East London, Eastern Cape, or other approved locations, and involves delivering across diverse regions with emphasis on design excellence and client

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture is required.
• Minimum 7 years of professional experience in retail and commercial architecture.
• Proficiency in architectural design software (Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Experience with national or international retail brands is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and development of retail, commercial, and hospitality projects from concept to completion.
• Collaborate with clients to understand brand, audience, and business goals to inform design decisions.
• Develop innovative space plans optimizing customer flow, merchandising, and operational efficiency.
• Ensure designs meet building codes, accessibility standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Produce high-quality architectural drawings, 3D models, and presentations.
• Coordinate with engineering consultants and contractors throughout the project lifecycle.
• Stay current with retail design trends, materials, and technology innovations.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and client relationships effectively.

Skills

Project management

Client liaison

Communication

Independent work

Education

Master's degree in Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic architectural practice known for its innovative retail and commercial designs, is seeking a Lead Retail and Commercial Architect. This role is ideal for a creative and business-minded architect passionate about designing engaging customer experiences and high-performance commercial spaces. You will lead the design process for a variety of projects, including retail stores, shopping centers, office buildings, and hospitality venues. Working closely with clients, marketing teams, and developers, you will translate brand identities and business objectives into functional and aesthetically compelling architectural solutions. This is a remote-first position, offering the flexibility to work from **East London, Eastern Cape**, or any other approved location while contributing to impactful projects across various regions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and development of retail, commercial, and hospitality projects from concept to completion.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their brand, target audience, and business goals to inform design decisions.
• Develop innovative and functional space plans that optimize customer flow, merchandising, and operational efficiency.
• Ensure designs meet all building codes, accessibility standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Produce high-quality architectural drawings, 3D models, and presentations.
• Coordinate with engineering consultants and contractors throughout the project lifecycle.
• Stay current with retail design trends, materials, and technology innovations.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and client relationships effectively.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience, with a significant portfolio focused on retail and commercial architecture.
• Proven experience designing for national or international retail brands is highly advantageous.
• Strong understanding of branding principles, customer experience design, and commercial real estate development.
• Proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Excellent conceptual design skills and a keen eye for aesthetics and detail.
• Strong project management, communication, and client liaison skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers competitive remuneration, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
• You will have the freedom to manage your work schedule and location, contributing to exciting and high-profile retail and commercial projects.
• Our client values creativity and innovation, providing a supportive environment for architects to excel in the commercial design sector, with opportunities to engage with teams and clients from **East London** and beyond.