Principal Commercial Property Architect

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Pension fund

Performance-based bonuses

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Principal Commercial Property Architect to lead design strategy for high-profile commercial, retail, and mixed-use developments. You will mentor teams and ensure commercial viability, aesthetics, and client satisfaction in KwaZulu-Natal.

The role requires a Master's in Architecture with 15+ years of high-level experience, plus a proven track record in large-scale projects and deep knowledge of SA building codes.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in architectural practice focusing on commercial, retail and mixed-use developments.
• Proven experience at Principal/Director level leading design teams.
• Strong portfolio of large-scale commercial projects.
• Solid knowledge of South African building codes and Durban planning policies.

Responsibilities

• Lead design direction for major commercial property developments.
• Mentor architects and designers in a collaborative studio environment.
• Engage with clients, developers and stakeholders on objectives, budgets and timelines.
• Oversee design documentation from concept sketches to construction drawings.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies and pre-design research.
• Coordinate with structural, MEP engineers to integrate solutions.
• Present proposals to clients and review boards.
• Ensure compliance with building regulations in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal.
• Contribute to business development and proposal writing.

Skills

Leadership

Client management

Communication

Education

Master's in Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Rendering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious and highly respected architectural firm with a strong presence in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal**, is seeking an exceptional Principal Commercial Property Architect. This senior leadership role is critical to driving the design and delivery of high-profile commercial, retail, and mixed-use developments. You will be responsible for leading design strategy, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring the commercial viability and aesthetic excellence of projects. The successful candidate will possess a keen understanding of market trends, client requirements, and the complexities of large-scale commercial developments. This is an office-based position in **Durban**, offering a unique opportunity to shape the built environment of **KwaZulu-Natal** through visionary architectural solutions. If you are a seasoned architect with a passion for commercial design and a proven track record of success, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design direction and conceptualization for a portfolio of significant commercial property developments.
• Manage and mentor teams of architects and designers, fostering a collaborative and innovative studio environment.
• Engage directly with clients, developers, and stakeholders to understand project objectives, budgets, and timelines.
• Oversee the preparation of design documentation, from initial concept sketches to detailed construction drawings, ensuring quality and adherence to project briefs.
• Conduct thorough site analyses, feasibility studies, and pre-design research for new commercial projects.
• Liaise with consultants (structural, mechanical, electrical engineers) to ensure integrated and efficient design solutions.
• Present design proposals and project strategies to clients, review boards, and at public forums.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant building regulations, zoning laws, and accessibility standards in **Durban** and the **KwaZulu-Natal** province.
• Contribute to business development efforts, including client relationship management and proposal writing.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture or equivalent professional qualification.
• A minimum of 15 years of extensive experience in architectural practice, with a significant specialization in commercial, retail, and mixed-use developments.
• Demonstrated experience in a Principal or Director-level role, leading design teams and managing complex projects from inception to completion.
• Exceptional portfolio showcasing successful delivery of large-scale commercial projects.
• Strong understanding of commercial real estate market dynamics, tenant fit-out requirements, and construction economics.
• Expert proficiency in architectural design software, including Revit, AutoCAD, and rendering applications.
• Excellent leadership, negotiation, and client management skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate complex design ideas to a variety of audiences.
• In-depth knowledge of South African building codes and planning policies pertinent to **Durban**.

Benefits

Our client offers an industry-leading remuneration package, reflecting the seniority and responsibilities of this role. Benefits include private medical aid, a substantial pension fund, performance-based bonuses, and significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a leading firm. You will work in a stimulating office environment in the heart of **Durban**, collaborating with a team of highly skilled professionals dedicated to architectural excellence. This is a career-defining opportunity to make a substantial impact on the commercial landscape of **KwaZulu-Natal**.