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GCA is seeking an experienced ARB-registered architect or project architect to join its growing team in London.

Location: North West London

Employment type: full-time, studio-based

This is a project-delivery role for an architect with strong UK experience who can independently manage projects while working collaboratively with our wider architectural, structural engineering and technical teams.

You will work across a varied portfolio of residential and commercial projects throughout London and the UK, including private homes, cultural and mixed-use developments.

We are looking for someone who combines strong design ability with sound technical knowledge, commercial awareness and a practical understanding of how buildings are designed, coordinated and constructed.

The role

You will manage and deliver designated projects across all RIBA Work Stages, from initial briefing and concept design through planning, technical design, tender, construction and handover.

You will be expected to work independently, exercise professional judgement and take ownership of agreed programmes, deliverables and project outcomes. At the same time, you will collaborate closely with directors, senior team members, architectural assistants, engineers, specialist consultants and contractors.

The role will suit an architect who is confident leading projects, coordinating, maintaining design quality through technical delivery and resolving practical issues during construction.

Key responsibilities:

• manage residential and commercial projects from initial briefing through construction and handover
• develop high-quality, commercially viable and buildable design solutions
• prepare and coordinate planning, Building Regulations, tender and construction information
• maintain design intent, technical quality and buildability through detailed design and construction
• coordinate structural, MEP, fire, energy and other specialist consultants
• manage project programmes, deliverables, design changes and client expectations
• lead client, consultant, contractor and site meetings where appropriate
• respond to technical queries and review contractor submissions during construction
• undertake site inspections and support contract administration duties
• supervise junior team members and contribute to internal quality assurance procedures

Essential requirements:

• ARB-registered
• minimum three years’ post-Part 3 experience within a UK architectural practice
• demonstrable experience across all RIBA Work Stages
• proven experience delivering UK projects through planning, Building Regulations, tender and construction
• strong and practical knowledge of UK Building Regulations and the planning system
• ability to maintain design intent and quality through technical design and construction detailing
• strong understanding of construction methods, materials, interfaces and buildability
• experience coordinating multidisciplinary consultants
• ability to produce and review high-quality technical and construction drawing packages
• confidence communicating with clients, contractors, consultants and statutory authorities
• ability to work independently, exercise professional judgement and take ownership of projects
• strong organisational, communication and time-management skills
• experience managing multiple live projects and competing deadlines

RIBA Chartered Membership, or eligibility for chartered membership, would be advantageous.

Software skills

Candidates should be proficient in:

• AutoCAD
• Adobe Creative Suite
• Microsoft Office

Experience with Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Enscape, D5 Render or similar visualisation software would be beneficial.

Desirable experience

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous:

• residential extensions, loft conversions and refurbishment projects
• high-end private residential projects
• multi-unit residential developments
• commercial fit-out and change-of-use projects
• tender preparation, contractor procurement and JCT contracts
• contract administration and construction-stage project delivery
• Principal Designer duties under the Building Regulations
• managing or mentoring junior architectural staff

About us

GCA is a multidisciplinary architectural practice delivering residential and commercial projects across London and the wider UK, working together with our studio in Sri Lanka.

Our London studio works closely with our architectural, structural engineering and technical teams to provide coordinated design solutions from feasibility through construction.

We place particular importance on design quality, technical accuracy, buildability, clear communication and professional responsibility.

What we offer:

• competitive salary, commensurate with experience
• a high level of project responsibility and professional autonomy
• exposure to projects across all RIBA Work Stages
• direct involvement with clients, consultants and contractors
• annual performance review and bonus scheme
• regular CPD and professional development
• opportunities to mentor and manage junior team members
• collaborative studio environment
• networking events, team social activities and overseas team trips
• loyalty recognition programme
• clear progression towards a senior leadership position as the practice grows

How to apply

Please submit your CV, portfolio and a brief covering letter outlining your relevant UK project experience, availability and salary expectations.

gca.uk.com