Job Description

Thistle Architecture - Winchester

Location:

Office-based in Winchester (hybrid working available in the future)

Job Type:

Full-time, permanent

Salary:

30,000 - 38,000 per year, depending on experience, with clear scope for progression

About Thistle Architecture

Thistle Architecture is a rapidly growing, developer-led architectural practice specialising in the retrofit, reuse, and conversion of existing buildings across the UK.

We work with property developers, investors, and professional clients to deliver fast, commercially intelligent architecture, starting with data-led feasibility studies and progressing through concept design, planning, technical delivery, and construction support.

The practice is currently rebranding and repositioning as a feasibility-first, developer-led architecture studio, with ambitious growth plans over the next three to five years. This role is a rare opportunity to join the practice at a formative stage and work directly alongside the founder, shaping the front end of projects and the future direction of the business.

The Role

We are seeking a Front-End Design Architect to support and eventually lead the early-stage design and feasibility phases of our projects.

Initially, you will work closely with the founder, shadowing them on live projects, feasibility studies, and client discussions. Over time, you will take increasing responsibility for front-end design, client interaction, and concept development, with the opportunity to see projects through from feasibility to completion where appropriate.

This is an office-led role to begin with. Being in the studio is essential for learning, collaboration, and fast-paced project development. Hybrid working can be introduced later once you are fully embedded in the practice and comfortable leading work independently.

Key Responsibilities

Producing initial sketch schemes and concept layouts for a wide variety of projects, including: Commercial-to-residential projects Flats, HMOs and large co-living schemes Residential conversions and retrofits High-end residential refurbishments Supporting and contributing to early-stage feasibility studies, including: Layout testing Capacity and density studies Options appraisals (Option A, B, C) Working closely with clients at the early stages of a project, helping translate brief, budget, and commercial objectives into viable design solutions. Developing projects from feasibility through concept design, and where required, continuing through planning and technical stages. Collaborating with the wider team, including technical and interior design, to ensure early design decisions are robust, compliant, and buildable. Gradually taking on more responsibility as a lead front-end designer, with clear progression as the practice scales. Opportunity to work with founder to build a front end design team as the practice grows.

Data-Led Design and Technology

Thistle Architecture is at the forefront of developing a data-led feasibility workflowfor property developers. We combine architectural expertise with in-house automation, intelligent use of data, and streamlined internal systems to reduce repetitive manual tasks and improve efficiency.

This approach allows our designers to spend

l

ess time on admin, background research, and duplication, and more time doing what architects enjoy most: sketching, testing ideas, and shaping strong design concepts at the front end of projects.

You will not be expected to build or manage technology. Instead, you will benefit from systems that support faster decision-making, clearer briefs, and a more focused and enjoyable design-led role.

What We're Looking For

An Architect or experienced Part 2 with strong concept and spatial design ability

.

Confident producing hand sketches and early-stage layouts (iPad or similar). Experience working on UK residential or conversion projects. Comfortable engaging with clients and communicating ideas clearly and professionally. Commercially aware, with an interest in how design decisions affect viability and value. Highly organised, punctual, and reliable. Ambitious, driven, and keen to progress quickly within a growing practice. Happy to be office-based initially and work closely with the founder.
AutoCAD experience is required. Experience with Revit or other software is beneficial but not essential.

Why Join Thistle Architecture

Direct mentorship from the founder of a nationally recognised, developer-led practice. Hands-on involvement in feasibility, concept design, and early client engagement. A clear path to becoming a lead front-end architect as the practice grows. Exposure to a wide range of commercially driven retrofit and conversion projects. A fast-paced, ambitious environment where good ideas are implemented quickly. Salary transparency with clear progression as responsibility increases.

Who This Role Is Not For

This role is not suited to someone who:

Prefers slow-paced, corporate practice environments Wants to work fully remotely from day one Avoids client interaction Is uncomfortable taking responsibility and accountability.

Next Steps

If you are excited by the idea of working in a developer-led, feasibility-first architecture practice, and want to grow quickly within a driven and ambitious team, we would love to hear from you.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 30,000.00-38,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Flexitime Referral programme Work from home
Application question(s):

Do you have digital or hand sketching experience? Are you within a hour Drive of Winchester?
Experience:

Practice : 4 years (required)
Work Location: In person