Architectural Designer

A fantastic opportunity is immediately available for an ambitious and driven Architectural Designer - to become part of a highly regarded independent 106 year old timber family run construction business. 

Established in 1920, Scotts of Thrapston, a family business, has an enviable reputation for manufacturing high quality, specialist timber products.

As the business continues to expand and thrive, we are currently looking to recruit a Architectural Designer to work as part of the team at our Thrapston office.

Scotts of Thrapston Limited, Bridge Street, Thrapston, Northamptonshire. NN14 4LR

Overview

This role combines architectural design with hands-on understanding of timber frame construction, supporting both bespoke projects and the development of new timber solutions within the equestrian and house-building sectors. You will work across concept design, detailed technical development, and close collaboration with our manufacturing and site teams to improve efficiency, buildability, and quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop front-end designs for timber frame buildings, focusing on stables, barns, and equestrian facilities, as well as architecturally led structures such as glulam portal frames.
• Produce clear presentation materials, including concept sketches, 2D/3D drawings, visuals, and outline specifications for clients and internal stakeholders.
• Prepare detailed design and technical information suitable for manufacture and construction, including factory production packs, cutting lists, and assembly drawings, in conjunction with existing design and manufacturing teams.
• Work closely with the manufacturing team to refine and standardise timber frame details, improving production efficiency, buildability, and material utilisation.
• Support innovation in timber use across the product range – from basic stable units to high-end architectural schemes – exploring new systems, details, and connections.
• Liaise with site teams to resolve design queries, improve installation methods, and feed lessons learned back into design and production processes.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of internal design processes, digital workflows, and drawing standards. Innovate to enhance the customer journey.

Skills and Experience

• Proven experience in architectural design, ideally with a strong bias towards timber frame or off-site construction.
• Good understanding of timber engineering principles and practical construction detailing.
• Proficiency in relevant CAD/BIM and 3D modelling software (e.g. AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, MiTek timber frame or similar).
• Experience producing both client-facing presentation information and detailed technical/production drawings.
• Strong problem-solving mindset with an interest in process improvement, lean manufacturing, and efficient site assembly.
• Comfortable working across the full design journey, from early concept through to factory packs and on-site support.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate with workshop, site, and office teams.

Personal attributes

• Practical, hands-on attitude with an eye for good design and buildability.
• Genuine interest in timber as a material and its application within equestrian and rural environments.

You will be joining our company at an exciting time - are you up for the challenge? In addition to the usual benefits (pension, healthcare cashback plan), a car salary sacrifice scheme is also available.  You will also have an early finish (3pm) each Friday. giving you some time to unwind before the start of your weekend.

Click to apply or send your CV and salary expectation details to janeb@scottsofthrapston.co.uk