Senior Designer - 12 month FTC

Universal Design Studio is an architecture and interiors practice based in London and New York, dedicated to creating spaces that inspire and endure. Founded in 2001 by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, the studio has built an international reputation for delivering thoughtful, finely crafted environments grounded in design-led strategy and research.

We design from the inside out, crafting spaces that elevate everyday experiences. Through the ideas, objects, and spaces we create, we seek to cultivate intelligence, find beauty, and drive transformation, all while deepening connections, inspiring participation, and unlocking creative potential in every interaction. We are looking for a  talented Senior Designer to join Universal Design Studio in London on a fixed term contract. Reporting to the Senior Creative Team, you will take responsibility for leading projects day-to-day, ensuring the highest standards of creative and technical delivery while inspiring and motivating your team.

As a Senior Designer, you will play a key client-facing role, guiding projects from concept through to completion. You will balance strong conceptual thinking with technical rigour, ensuring accuracy and quality throughout. This is an exciting opportunity for a confident, proactive designer to take on greater responsibility, leading teams and shaping design outcomes across a range of projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day design and delivery of small to medium-sized projects.
• Implement creative direction in collaboration with the Senior Creative Team.
• Manage and support Designers, Design Assistants, and Interns.
• Oversee design intent and technical drawing packages, ensuring quality and deadlines are met.
• Represent Universal in client and site meetings, resolving issues while protecting design intent.
• Build strong client relationships and present design concepts with clarity.
• Contribute to recruitment, mentoring, and knowledge-sharing across the studio.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience leading project teams in architecture, interiors, or spatial design.
• Strong conceptual design skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Confident communicator, able to present ideas and solutions clearly to clients and colleagues.
• Solid understanding of RIBA stages, technical detailing, and construction processes.
• Positive, proactive, and collaborative approach to leadership.