In our last blog, we noted how the optimism following Labour’s election victory in early 2024 quickly faded. Expectations of a post-election boost in workload were dampened by persistent economic pessimism and concerns around the budget. Fast forward four months, and despite global political upheaval, Trump’s proposed tariffs, and increased employer National Insurance contributions, we’ve experienced one of the busiest periods for architectural recruitment in over a decade. Recent news has brought a wave of positivity to the architecture sector, with several large-scale projects announced:
- Manchester United's New Old Trafford Stadium - Foster + Partners has revealed plans for a 100,000-seat stadium, set to be the UK’s largest football venue and a major new landmark for Manchester.
- Airport and Transport Infrastructure Expansions - The UK government has unveiled major infrastructure initiatives, including expansions at Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton airports, the Lower Thames Crossing, new reservoirs, and the Oxford-Cambridge Arc with an East-West rail link.
- Universal Studios UK Theme Park, Bedfordshire - Universal has announced its first European theme park, set for a 476-acre site in Kempston Hardwick. The park is expected to open by 2031 and bring nearly £50 billion in economic benefits.
Alongside these developments, the government’s pledge to build 1.5 million homes is already providing a substantial boost to architectural practices. Many AJ100 studios with previously delayed projects have resumed hiring, some encountering unexpected skills shortages, especially for recently qualified architects through to senior levels.
One key challenge is post-Brexit visa regulations. Many firms remain reluctant to offer sponsorship, with the skilled worker visa salary threshold jumping from £26,000 to £45,900 - well above the average salary for newly qualified Part 3 architects, which stands at £38,146 according to our recent salary survey. Architecture’s removal from the shortage occupation list has only intensified the hiring difficulties, particularly in London where EU talent was once a key workforce component.
In terms of busy sectors, housing and mixed-use continue to dominate, but we’re also seeing increased demand in education, hospitality, high-end residential and international work (mainly London-based studios working on Middle East projects).
The latest RIBA Future Trends Survey shows a balance of +7 for expected workloads, the highest in recent years and looking likely to increase further. Salary offers are also encouraging. Architectural professionals changing roles are typically seeing salary increases of 10–15%, driven by strong competition for top talent.
If you haven’t had a pay rise recently, now could be the perfect time to explore new opportunities. Check out some of our latest roles below:
£70,000+
£60,000 - £70,000
£50,000 - £60,000
£40,000 - £50,000
£30,000 - £40,000