architectural assistant

Location: Bristol

Closing date: 15/07/2025

Are you our next Barefoot Architectural Assistant?

Do you want to work with a warm and creative bunch of people who are passionate about transforming lives through designing homes, housing and community projects?

At Barefoot Architects, we’re looking for an exceptionally talented, environmentally conscious, and curious Part 1 or Part 2 Architectural Assistant to join our team in Bristol this summer. You’ll dive into meaningful architecture from day one, work collaboratively across all RIBA stages, and be part of a practice that puts ethics, ecology, and people at the heart of design.

What you’ll be doing

As our new Part 1 Architectural Assistant, you’ll play a full and valued role in our design team. Your key responsibilities will include:

  • Supporting design work at all RIBA stages - from concept design to technical delivery

  • Preparing high-quality 2D and 3D drawings, models, visualisations, and presentations

  • Participating fully in team meetings, reviews, site visits, away days, and design sessions

  • Liaising with clients and consultants (with support from senior team members)

  • Engaging with the practice’s sustainability goals and ethical ethos

  • Assisting with research into ecological materials and construction techniques

  • Contributing to community-focused design and residential projects

here’s what Adam, our current architectural assistant, has to say:

“It’s rare to find a workplace where everyone is genuinely kind, supportive, and passionate, but Barefoot is exactly that. I’ve had the opportunity to lead on projects and engage directly with clients, contractors, and consultants at every stage, all while feeling trusted, encouraged, and fully supported. It will be hard to find somewhere like this again in my career.”

What we’re looking for

  • RIBA Part 1 or 2 qualification (or equivalent)

  • Outstanding design communication skills, both visual and verbal

  • Proficiency in a range of 2D and 3D CAD software

  • Strong skills in Adobe Creative Suite

  • A genuine interest in ecological and sustainable building materials

  • Passion for domestic and residential architecture

  • Confidence to communicate clearly and collaborate well

  • Willingness to get involved, contribute ideas, and cook lunch now and then

the details

  • Contract: 12-month fixed-term with potential to extend

  • Start date: 1st August 2025 (with some flexibility)

  • Central location: Paintworks, Bristol (close to temple meads station and bus routes)

  • Hours: Full-time, Monday-Friday 09:00-17:30 (with flexibility)

  • Salary: Competitive with RIBA salary scale for 10-20 practice size. Performance reviews at 3 and 6 months

  • Quarterly bonus structure

  • Team lunches Monday-Thursday (with shared cooking and washing up rota)

  • Quarterly team away days: to set goals and work in ‘circles of influence’ (management systems, design, community & marketing) towards a common vision

  • Cycle to work scheme: available on request

  • Monthly pizza and drinks

  • Pension scheme

  • Environment: Friendly, inclusive, and creatively empowering

how to apply

Please email your cover letter, CV, and a sample portfolio (PDF, max 10MB) to info@barefootarchitects.co.uk

In your letter, let us know what excites you most about joining Barefoot.

Barefoot Architects is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone thrives