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Architectural Designer

View this career for different education levels:

Primary Secondary Post-16

An architectural designer is responsible for creating the plans and designs for new buildings and structures, or for making improvements to existing ones. This role involves working closely with clients to understand their needs, developing concept sketches and detailed drawings using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and collaborating with engineers, surveyors, and construction teams to bring projects to life. Architectural designers need a strong sense of creativity and attention to detail, as well as good problem-solving and communication skills. In the UK, many architectural designers work for architectural practices, construction firms, or as freelancers. The work can range from residential homes to commercial buildings and public spaces.

Architectural Designer

📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Architectural designers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £40,000 per year, depending on experience and location.

Number of Practising Architects

There are over 42,000 registered architects in the UK, with many more working in related roles such as architectural design.

Typical Working Hours

Most architectural designers work around 37 to 40 hours per week, with some overtime required to meet project deadlines.

🚀 Careers in this path

Residential Architect

Focuses on designing homes and residential developments, working closely with clients to create comfortable and functional living spaces.

Sustainable Design Architect

Specialises in creating environmentally friendly buildings by using sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs.

Interior Architect

Works on the internal layout and design of buildings, ensuring that spaces are both practical and visually appealing.

Build a Strong Academic Foundation

Take Relevant Subjects at School

Focus on subjects such as Mathematics, Art, Design and Technology, and Physics at GCSE and A-level.

These subjects will help you develop the analytical and creative skills needed for architectural design. Mathematics and Physics are vital for understanding structures, while Art and Design nurture creativity and visualisation. Consider researching local architectural workshops or competitions to boost your experience.

Explore Architectural Design as a Career

Attend open days, speak to professionals, or complete work experience in architectural practices.

Many universities and architectural firms offer taster days, talks, and summer schools. Gaining early insight into the profession will help you confirm your interest and strengthen your university applications.

Pursue Higher Education in Architecture

Complete an Accredited Architecture Degree

Apply for a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Architects Registration Board (ARB) accredited architecture course (usually a BA or BSc).

A typical route is a three-year undergraduate degree, followed by a year of practical experience. Look for courses that include strong design modules and opportunities to use architectural software. Entry requirements generally include good A-levels, a portfolio, and sometimes an interview.

Build a Design Portfolio

Develop a portfolio showcasing your creative and technical design work during your studies.

A strong portfolio should include sketches, models, digital drawings, and project work. This is essential for applying to architecture courses and securing placements or jobs in architectural firms.

Gain Professional Experience and Skills

Complete Practical Training

Undertake a year-long placement or internship (Part 1 year out) in an architectural practice.

This experience will help you apply your academic learning to real-life projects, develop teamwork and communication skills, and expand your professional network. Most architecture degrees are structured to include this as an essential stage.

Learn Architectural Design Software

Gain proficiency in software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.

These tools are widely used in the industry for creating plans, visualisations, and presentations. Many universities provide formal training, but you can also access online tutorials or short courses for additional practice.

Progress to Professional Status

Continue with Postgraduate Studies

Complete a postgraduate architecture degree (RIBA Part 2), followed by further practical experience (Part 3) to become a fully qualified architect, or focus on architectural design-specific roles.

While full qualification as an architect requires Parts 2 and 3, some choose to specialise as architectural designers after their undergraduate degree and practical experience. These roles focus on the design aspect rather than full architectural responsibility.

Apply for Architectural Designer Roles

Look for entry-level positions in architectural practices, construction companies, or design consultancies.

Tailor your CV and portfolio to highlight your design skills, software proficiency, and any professional experience. Networking through industry associations like RIBA can help you discover job opportunities and stay up to date with sector news.

Career Progressions

This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.

Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.

Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.

These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!

Sample Qualifications

An Architectural Technologist works closely with Architectural Designers and Architects, focusing on the technical development, detailing, and structural aspects of architectural projects. Both roles require a strong understanding of building design, materials, and construction processes, making this the most closely aligned career in terms of qualifications.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

University

You can do a degree or postgraduate course like architectural technology or architectural design and technology, accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT).

Employers may also accept a foundation degree, or higher national certificate or diploma in a similar subject.

If you choose the non-degree route, you'll need to demonstrate you have the right skills and knowledge, if you want to become a member of CIAT at a later stage.

Some courses may include a 12-month industry placement. This is a good way to get practical experience and make contacts, which may help when looking for work after completing your studies.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

Apprenticeship

You could apply for an apprenticeship, which would give you some of the relevant skills and knowledge needed for this job. It could also act as a stepping stone onto further training to qualify.

The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) approves the following:

  • Digital Engineering Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
  • Construction Design and Build Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
  • Design and Construction Management Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship

These apprenticeships take between 3 and 4 years to complete, and are a mix of training on the job and off-site study.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

Work

Employers may take you on as a trainee if you have 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and 2 A levels, in subjects like maths, science, IT and technology.

They might accept equivalent qualifications in engineering or construction, for example the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment. Courses in 3D design could also be useful.

More Information

Career tips

Experience in computer-aided design or working in the construction industry could help you get into this career.

Professional and industry bodies

When you've completed an approved course you can apply for associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

Further information

You'll find more details about becoming an architectural technologist through the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

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