Philippa Thorp Design
Job Description
Position: Senior Architect
Practice: Philippa Thorp Design
Engagement: Contract Basis
Location: Knightsbridge, London, United Kingdom
Employment Type: Contractor
Role Overview
Philippa Thorp Design is looking for a highly skilled Senior Architect to become part of its London-based team. This contract-based opportunity is designed for an outstanding architect capable of managing projects independently, possessing a minimum of a decade of professional practice. The primary focus is overseeing a prestigious luxury residential project situated in the French Alps. While the role is based at the Knightsbridge studio, it requires specific regional expertise and logistical flexibility.
Candidate Requirements:
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Proven track record in managing projects from the initial conceptual phase through to final on-site execution for comparable high-end developments in the French Alpine region.
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Complete proficiency in the French language—both oral and written capabilities are mandatory.
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Comprehensive understanding of French building and construction nomenclature.
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Availability and willingness to commute to the French site as required, with increased frequency during the construction phase.
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Availability for an immediate start to oversee construction beginning in May 2018.
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Capability to manage dual-tier bidding processes, comparing single-contractor versus multi-contractor strategies.
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Oversight and synchronization of all project-related consultants and professionals.
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Creation of promotional collateral, including architectural drawings and SketchUp visualizations.
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Expert proficiency in Vectorworks software.
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Commitment to a fixed-term contract spanning twenty-four months.
Job Data Table
| Category | Details |
| Company Name | Philippa Thorp Design |
| Location | London, United Kingdom |
| Locality | Knightsbridge |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| City | London |
| Region | Greater London |
| Job Type | Contractor |
| Salaries | Based on applicant expectations |
| Experience Level | Senior (10+ years) |
| Travel | Required (Regular site visits to France) |
| Language | English and Fluent French (Written/Spoken) |
| Benefits | High-end project exposure, Knightsbridge location |
Skills & Competency Table
| Skill | Competency Level |
| Project Management | Expert (10+ Years) |
| French Language | Fluent (Essential) |
| French Construction Terms | Expert |
| Vectorworks | Advanced |
| SketchUp Modeling | Proficient |
| Vendor Coordination | Advanced |
| Marketing Material Prep | Proficient |
Salaries Pay Calculator Table
| Component | Amount | Notes |
| Annual Salary | Competitive | Commensurate with 10+ years experience |
| Bonus | Not Specified | Subject to contract terms |
| Total Compensation | Per Applicant Request | Candidates must provide salary expectations |
Job Summary
This is a high-responsibility contract role for a Senior Architect to lead a luxury residential build in the French Alps from a Knightsbridge base. Requiring ten years of experience and total French fluency, the role involves managing the full project lifecycle, from design and marketing to on-site construction and professional coordination.
FAQs
What is the minimum experience required?
Applicants must have at least ten years of experience as a job-running architect.
Is French fluency actually mandatory?
Yes, being fluent in both written and spoken French, including construction terminology, is essential for this role.
How long is the contract duration?
The position is a two-year contract starting immediately.
Where is the work located?
The office is in Knightsbridge, London, but regular travel to the project site in the French Alps is required.
Which software tools are necessary?
Candidates must be proficient in Vectorworks and SketchUp.
Expert Analysis
This role is highly specialized, demanding a unique intersection of senior-level management and regional French expertise. The requirement for ten years of experience combined with Alpine construction knowledge suggests a need for an architect who can navigate complex international regulations and high-end client expectations simultaneously while maintaining immediate project momentum.
Location & Logistics Guide
The primary office is located in the affluent Knightsbridge district of London, known for its high-end design firms. However, the logistical nature of this role requires frequent international travel to the French Alps to oversee construction milestones and contractor performance.
City Wikipedia URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London
Career Path
A Senior Architect in this role gains significant experience in the luxury international residential sector. This trajectory leads to roles such as Project Director or Associate Partner. Success in managing a high-stakes Alpine development can also establish an architect as a leading specialist in cross-border European luxury property developments.
To apply for this job please visit architecture.co.uk.