Head Architect

Job Title: Principal Architect
Company: DBL – Design Build Live
Location: Phase 7, Bahria Town, Rawalpindi
Employment Type: Full Time

About DBL – Design Build Live

DBL – Design Build Live is a leading firm in construction, real estate development, and interior design, specializing in high-end residential and commercial projects. We are committed to delivering innovative, functional, and aesthetically refined spaces with a strong focus on quality, client satisfaction, and long-term value.

We are looking for a highly experienced Principal Architect to join our growing team.

Role Summary

The Principal Architect will serve as the design and technical lead for DBL’s architectural portfolio. This role is responsible for driving the creative vision, ensuring design excellence, and overseeing the successful delivery of projects from concept to completion. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in architecture, with a strong track record in leading high-end residential and commercial projects.

This position requires a strategic mindset, advanced design capabilities, deep technical knowledge, and strong leadership and client-management skills.

Key Responsibilities1. Design Leadership & Vision

• Lead the overall architectural design direction for high-end residential and commercial projects.
• Develop and communicate compelling design concepts, ensuring alignment with the client brief, project goals, and DBL’s brand identity.
• Review and refine design proposals, ensuring harmony between aesthetics, functionality, sustainability, and cost.
• Maintain and elevate DBL’s design standards, ensuring that every project reflects innovation and excellence.

2. Project Planning & Delivery

• Oversee the full project lifecycle from concept design, schematic design, and detailed design to construction documentation and project handover.
• Prepare, review, and approve architectural drawings, details, and specifications.
• Ensure all project deliverables are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Conduct site analysis, feasibility studies, and zoning/regulatory research for new projects.

3. Client & Stakeholder Management

• Act as the primary architectural point of contact for key clients and major projects.
• Lead client meetings, presentations, and design workshops to understand requirements and present design solutions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and vendors.
• Manage client expectations and provide professional guidance on design, materials, timelines, and costs.

4. Team Management & Mentorship

• Lead, supervise, and mentor a team of architects, junior architects, and designers.
• Assign tasks, review work, and provide continuous feedback to ensure high-quality outputs.
• Support the professional development of the design team through knowledge sharing, training, and regular design reviews.
• Promote a collaborative, solution-oriented, and accountable work culture within the architecture team.

5. Technical Excellence & Compliance

• Ensure all designs comply with local building codes, bylaws, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Review and approve construction drawings, coordination drawings, and shop drawings.
• Coordinate closely with structural, MEP, and other consultants to resolve design conflicts and ensure integrated solutions.
• Provide technical guidance during all stages of the project, including resolving on-site design and execution issues in a timely manner.

6. Site Coordination & Execution

• Collaborate with project managers, site engineers, and contractors during the construction phase to ensure adherence to design intent.
• Conduct periodic site visits to monitor progress, quality of finishes, and compliance with approved drawings.
• Address site queries, issue clarification sketches, and provide solutions for unforeseen conditions.

7. Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Stay up to date with the latest trends in architecture, interior design, sustainable building practices, materials, and technologies.
• Recommend innovative design approaches, materials, and systems to enhance project quality and efficiency.
• Continuously improve internal design processes, documentation standards, and workflows.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture from a recognized institution.
• Minimum 10 years of proven experience in architectural design, with at least several years in a senior or lead role.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating successfully completed high-end residential and commercial projects.
• Thorough understanding of local building codes, regulations, approvals, and authority submission processes.
• Registration with PCATP or other relevant professional body is highly preferred.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, D5, SketchUp, Lumion, Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant design and visualization tools.
• Strong 3D visualization, rendering, and presentation skills.
• Excellent command over construction detailing, materials, and building systems.
• Ability to prepare and review detailed construction drawings, BOQs, and specifications.

Personal Competencies

• Strong leadership qualities with the ability to guide and inspire a multidisciplinary design team.
• Exceptional design sensibility, spatial planning, and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work under deadlines.
• Professional, responsible, and people-oriented attitude aligned with DBL’s culture.

What We Offer

• A dynamic and collaborative work environment with cross-functional exposure.
• Opportunity to lead landmark projects and shape the design language of the company.
• Professional growth in architectural and operational leadership.
• Competitive salary and a supportive leadership team.
• A people-first, quality-driven organizational culture.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following:

• Updated CV
• Portfolio of relevant work (PDF or online link)
• Brief cover letter highlighting relevant experience and key projects

Please email your application to: hr@d-b-l.com
Subject Line: Application – Principal Architect (DBL – Design Build Live)

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Rs100,000.00 - Rs150,000.00 per month

Experience:

• Architect: 10 years (Required)

Location:

• Rawalpindi (Preferred)

Work Location: In person