Ralph Appelbaum Associates

Ralph Appelbaum Associates (RAA) is seeking a full-time Lead Physical Designer (hybrid) to join our award-winning design studio in London which over the last 25 years has worked with museum and corporate clients across the UK and Europe.

At the heart of RAA’s design philosophy is the desire to seamlessly integrate the visitor experience and the architectural environment. The Physical Design team on any project are responsible for conceiving, developing and delivering the physical expression of the project’s design. They work directly with visual designers, content staff, consultants (lighting, audio/visual, media, etc.) and clients throughout the duration of a project’s execution. Encompassing interior design, design of exhibits, design of interactives and immersive experiences, architectural coordination, and more, the Physical Design team is composed of diversely skilled practitioners who are at once technically minded and relentlessly creative.

Working closely with and reporting to other project leaders and firm leadership, Lead Physical Designers help shape the qualities of the visitor experience by collaboratively creating an engaging and cohesive system of spatial elements which represents an exhibit’s narrative. This role communicates that narrative through the design of a fully integrated exhibition within an architectural shell and may participate in all phases of a project from conceptual design through design development and construction documentation. The candidate will understand physical storytelling and have excellent conceptual ability, thorough understanding of architecture, and be capable of carrying out project-specific design assignments as well as collaborating harmoniously with multidisciplinary teams to achieve a connected and innovative design.

This position is hybrid, with a requirement to be in the studio 2-3 days per week and the option to balance in-person work in the London studio with working remotely depending on the needs of the studio and individual preferences.

• Develops projects with multiple galleries or complex architectural conditions
• Refines and reviews gallery schemes, drawing sets & schedules, and specifications
• Leads client presentations and workshops
• Provides input to the RAA contract, project schedule, and staffing
• Supports Project Management in maintaining project costs, schedule and resourcing to budget
• Establishes workflows and drawing protocols
• Assigns and coordinates design tasks to other designers
• Oversees and delegates the work of other physical designers

• At least 7 years experience as an Exhibition, Architectural, or Interior Design professional
• Degree in Exhibit Design, Architecture Interior Design or related fields
• Demonstrated experience in exhibition design, with a minimum of 3 completed exhibition projects
• Experience in hands-on detailing and production phases
• Experience of preparing tender documentation and participation in tender evaluation of the Works
• Experience of leading budget planning, familiarity with market rates including low, medium & high cost per square metre thresholds
• Conversant with RIBA Plan of Work
• Familiarity with Designer and Principal Designer Duties under CDM Regulations 2015 & experience of preparing Designers’ Risk Assessments
• Familiarity with products, materials and specifications
• Ability to work on site/ in studio and to travel off site for client meetings
• Highest standards of personal and professional integrity
• Collaborative and inclusive work style
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Client-facing presentation skills
• Strong organizational, multi-tasking, and time management skills
• Proactive approach to task management
• Strong attention to detail
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace
• Proficiency in Vectorworks and/or Revit (BIM 360 experience is a plus)
• Experience with a 3D modeling program, such as Rhino or Sketchup
• Rendering or other visualization experience is a plus
• Understanding of Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) is a plus

Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications we receive, we cannot personally respond to each applicant. Qualified candidates will be contacted via email regarding our interview process. To apply for this role, please send a cover letter, CV, and portfolio to humanresources@raai.com.

RAA is an equal opportunity practice that is committed to furthering diversity and inclusion in our studio. RAA does not discriminate in employment or access to its programs or activities on the basis of: race; color; creed; religion; gender; gender identity or expression; sex; sexual orientation; national origin or ancestry; citizenship status; health or genetic information; age; marital status; mental or physical disability; pregnancy; political affiliation; arrest record; past, present, or future service in the uniformed services; or any other legally protected status. Our policy of non-discrimination applies to all personnel practices, including, but not limited to, recruitment, project assignments, professional development, compensation, or any other employment practice. We strongly encourage women, people of color, and candidates from other underrepresented communities to apply.