Senior Architect - Heritage Conservation & Adaptive Reuse

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Architect for a heritage-focused role in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will lead conservation and adaptive reuse projects, directing feasibility, design, documentation, and construction oversight to preserve historic buildings.

You will work with authorities, clients, and teams to ensure compliant, sensitive modernization that respects cultural heritage while delivering functional contemporary spaces.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture with heritage conservation or adaptive reuse focus.
• Professional registration with SAIA or equivalent is preferred.
• Minimum 10 years architectural experience with at least 5 years in heritage conservation and adaptive reuse.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and planning for heritage conservation and adaptive reuse projects in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
• Conduct condition assessments, historical research, and feasibility studies for heritage structures.
• Develop sensitive design solutions that respect historical integrity while meeting modern requirements.
• Prepare detailed drawings, specifications and conservation plans compliant with heritage regulations.
• Liaise with heritage authorities and stakeholders to secure approvals and consensus.
• Manage project teams, consultants, and contractors throughout the lifecycle.
• Oversee construction administration, ensuring conservation principles are followed.
• Advise on materials and restoration methods for historic buildings.
• Contribute to the firm’s expertise in heritage architecture and sustainable reuse strategies.

Skills

Heritage conservation

Adaptive reuse

Project leadership

CAD

BIM

Heritage knowledge

Stakeholder management

Research & analysis

Communication

Education

Master's in Architecture (Heritage)

SAIA registration

Tools

CAD

BIM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious architectural practice renowned for its work in heritage conservation and adaptive reuse, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Architect to join their team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This unique role calls for an individual with a deep appreciation for historical architecture and a proven ability to sensitively integrate modern design principles into heritage structures. The successful candidate will lead complex projects involving the preservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of significant buildings. You will be responsible for managing projects from initial assessment and research through to detailed design and construction supervision, ensuring compliance with heritage guidelines and conservation best practices. This is an exceptional opportunity for an architect passionate about preserving cultural heritage while creating functional and inspiring spaces for contemporary use in the historically rich Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and planning for heritage conservation and adaptive reuse projects in Stellenbosch, Western Cape .
• Conduct thorough condition assessments, historical research, and feasibility studies for heritage structures.
• Develop sensitive and innovative design solutions that respect historical integrity while meeting modern functional requirements.
• Prepare detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and conservation plans compliant with heritage regulations.
• Liaise with heritage authorities, provincial and national bodies, clients, and stakeholders to secure approvals and consensus.
• Manage project teams, consultants, and contractors throughout the project lifecycle.
• Oversee construction administration, ensuring that conservation principles and specifications are meticulously followed.
• Advise on material selection, conservation techniques, and appropriate restoration methods for historic buildings.
• Contribute to the firm's expertise in heritage architecture and sustainable adaptive reuse strategies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture or a related field, with specialized study in heritage conservation or adaptive reuse.
• Professional registration with SAIA or equivalent; membership in heritage organizations is a plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of architectural experience, with at least 5 years focusing specifically on heritage conservation and adaptive reuse projects.
• Demonstrated portfolio of successfully completed heritage projects, showcasing sensitivity and technical skill.
• Strong understanding of historical building typologies, materials, construction techniques, and conservation philosophy.
• Proficiency in CAD and BIM software, with experience in digital documentation of heritage assets.
• Knowledge of relevant heritage legislation and guidelines in South Africa .
• Excellent research, analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and navigate regulatory processes.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflective of your expertise, coupled with comprehensive benefits including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• Opportunities for specialized training and professional development in heritage conservation are provided.
• This role offers the chance to work on culturally significant projects in the beautiful setting of Stellenbosch and the wider Western Cape , contributing to the preservation of invaluable architectural heritage.
• Join a dedicated team that values meticulous craftsmanship and innovative approaches to adaptive reuse.