Experienced Architect

Adam Knibb Architects is seeking an experienced, design‑led architect to join our award‑winning studio in Winchester. This is a senior role for someone who is equally passionate about contemporary design and confident in delivering projects through to completion.

If you are excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we’d still love to hear from you as the right fit may be more important.

Adam Knibb Architects is a RIBA‑chartered practice specialising in high‑quality contemporary architecture. We primarily design bespoke new homes, transformative extensions, and carefully considered refurbishments across Hampshire and the South of England. Our portfolio also includes developer‑led projects and, on occasion, commercial projects.

Our work is driven by strong conceptual clarity, refined detailing, and a belief that architecture should be both beautiful and personal, underpinned by high‑quality craftsmanship. We work closely with private clients who are invested in design quality, and we pride ourselves on guiding them through a collaborative and rigorous process.

As a small, focused studio, we offer genuine involvement at every stage of a project. Every member of the team contributes meaningfully to design discussions, technical development, and helps shape the direction of the practice.

This role offers the chance to take ownership of projects from inception to completion. You will lead bespoke residential schemes through all RIBA work stages — from early concept design and planning strategy to on‑site delivery and contract administration.

We are looking for someone who combines:

• Strong architectural design ability
• Technical confidence and construction knowledge
• Leadership and project management experience
• A calm, professional presence with clients and consultants

This is an opportunity to shape thoughtful, contemporary homes and play a key role in a growing practice.

• Lead projects independently across all RIBA stages
• Develop and present strong conceptual proposals aligned with client aspirations
• Prepare and coordinate planning applications and building regulations packages
• Oversee detailed technical design and specification
• Manage consultant teams, including structural engineers and specialist advisors
• Administer building contracts and undertake regular site inspections
• Maintain project programmes, budgets, and quality standards
• Mentor and supervise junior members of the team
• Resourcing projects to maximise team efficiencies
• Contribute to the ongoing development and culture of the studio

• ARB registered Architect
• 5+ years post‑Part III experience
• Commercial practice awareness
• Proven experience delivering UK projects through to completion
• Demonstrable ability to run projects independently
• Strong design portfolio showing contemporary work (private, residential experience would be an advantage)
• Excellent technical knowledge of UK construction and detailing
• Experience in contract administration
• Proficiency in Vectorworks (preferred) or equivalent CAD software
• Clear communicator with strong organisational skills
• Confident working within a small, collaborative team

We are particularly interested in architects who care deeply about proportion, materiality, light, and spatial quality — and who understand that technical resolution is as important as conceptual clarity.

Our studio is based in the heart of Winchester — widely regarded as one of the most desirable and architecturally rich cities in the South of England.

Winchester offers:

• A strong architectural context, from historic fabric to contemporary interventions
• A thriving design and construction community across Hampshire and the South Coast
• Excellent rail links to London (approx. 1 hour)
• Access to the South Downs National Park and coastline
• A high quality of life balancing culture, landscape and connectivity

For architects considering a move from London or other major cities, Winchester provides the opportunity to work on ambitious, design‑led projects while enjoying a more balanced lifestyle.

• Competitive salary dependent on experience
• 20+ days annual leave + bank holidays (TBC)
• Support for CPD and professional development
• Genuine project ownership and responsibility
• A collaborative, design‑focused studio environment
• Long‑term growth opportunity within the practice
• A positive working culture that values quality

We are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from architects of all backgrounds who share our passion for well‑crafted contemporary homes.

To apply, please use the ‘Apply Now’ button with your CV, a concise portfolio (max 10 MB) demonstrating your residential experience, and a short cover letter outlining your interest in the role and stating your salary expectations.