Architect (High End Residential)

Hunter Dunning

Job Description

Architect (High-End Residential)

Chelsea, London | Full-time | £45,000 – £47,000

Hunter Dunning is recruiting an Architect or Architectural Designer for a bespoke, seven-strong studio in Chelsea. This practice, established in 2009, specializes in super-prime residential projects across London and Italy. Known for a supportive culture and an aspirational design approach, the studio offers a rare balance between elite-level project work and a genuine focus on employee work-life balance.

Role & Responsibilities

  • Technical Coordination: Develop detailed design information, including comprehensive tender and construction packages.

  • Job Running: Support general project management duties and carry out regular site visits.

  • Concept Development: Assist in the creation of concept designs and high-quality presentation materials.

  • Multidisciplinary Liaison: Coordinate effectively with internal team members and specialist external consultants.

  • Full-Lifecycle Involvement: Contribute to multiple high-end projects across various RIBA stages.

Required Skills & Experience

  • Qualifications: Architectural degree with a minimum of 2 years’ UK-based experience.

  • Sector Expertise: Proven track record working on high-end or super-prime residential projects in London.

  • Software Mastery: Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp.

  • Soft Skills: Strong organizational abilities, proactive mindset, and excellent English communication skills.

  • Eligibility: Full legal right to work in the UK.


Job Data Table

Category Details
Company Hunter Dunning (Client Practice)
Location Chelsea, London, UK
Salary £45,000 – £47,000
Experience 2+ Years UK Experience
Sector Super-Prime Residential
Software AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, SketchUp
Work Model Hybrid (3 Days Office / 2 Days Home)
Benefits Discretionary bonus, Flexible starts, Remote allowance

Skills & Competency Table

Skill Competency Level
AutoCAD Expert
Tender Packages Advanced
High-End Detailing Advanced
SketchUp Advanced
Client Interaction Intermediate / Advanced
Construction Coordination Intermediate / Advanced

Salaries Pay Calculator Table

Component Amount Notes
Annual Salary £45,000 – £47,000 Highly competitive for 2yr+ PQE
Bonus Discretionary Annual performance-based
Remote Allowance Annual Specific allowance for home-working costs
Referral Bonus £1,000 For successfully placed candidates

Job Summary

This Architect role in Chelsea offers the opportunity to work on elite super-prime residential projects in London and Italy. With a focus on technical delivery and site coordination, the position is perfect for a 2+ year experienced professional looking for a close-knit, supportive environment that offers hybrid working and professional development.


FAQs

What is the “super-prime” focus? Super-prime refers to the highest tier of residential property, involving luxury materials, complex bespoke detailing, and high-net-worth clients.

How does the hybrid model work? You are required to be in the Chelsea office 3 days per week, with 2 days working from home.

What are the international opportunities? The firm has an active workload in Italy, providing exposure to international design standards and site contexts.

What is the “Christmas closure”? In addition to your 21 days of holiday, the studio closes over the Christmas period, allowing for an extended break.

Is there a bonus scheme? Yes, a discretionary annual bonus is offered based on individual and firm performance.


Expert Analysis

A salary of up to £47k for 2 years of experience is significantly above the London average (typically £38k–£42k for this level). This reflects the specialized nature of the Chelsea super-prime market, where technical precision and the ability to handle bespoke, high-value materials are at a premium. The inclusion of a remote-working allowance is a modern, forward-thinking perk rarely seen in boutique architectural firms.


Location & Logistics Guide

The studio is located in Chelsea (SW3/SW10), one of London’s most prestigious and architecturally rich neighborhoods. The area is a hub for luxury interior designers and high-end contractors, offering a vibrant professional environment for residential specialists.

City Wikipedia: London


Career Path

In a small, seven-person practice, career progression is often faster and more direct. An Architect here can expect to move into a Senior Architect or Project Lead role quickly, gaining significant experience in client management and international project delivery that is often harder to obtain at larger commercial firms.

To apply for this job please visit jobs.architecture.com.