Our client a leading architectural consultancy in Dubai is seeking an experienced Head of Design Studio - Technical Design to lead the technical design capability of the practice. This senior leadership role will oversee the delivery of technically robust architectural solutions across a portfolio of complex projects, including high-end residential, hospitality, mixed-use, and large-scale developments.
The position requires a highly experienced technical architect who can lead multidisciplinary teams, manage design coordination, and ensure projects progress from concept validation through detailed design and construction documentation with precision, quality, and compliance.
Role Purpose
The Head of Design Studio - Technical Design will be responsible for leading the practice's technical design output, ensuring design intent is translated into coordinated, buildable solutions. The role will guide project teams through technical development stages, oversee quality control of drawings and documentation, and ensure alignment with international standards and local authority regulations.
This role will also act as a key interface between design teams, consultants, contractors, and clients to ensure seamless project delivery.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Design Leadership
- Lead the studio's technical design function, ensuring architectural concepts are translated into detailed, buildable solutions
- Oversee design development, technical design, and construction documentation stages across multiple projects
- Ensure coordination between architectural, structural, MEP, and specialist disciplines
- Establish and maintain technical standards, detailing guidelines, and quality benchmarks within the studio
- Lead technical reviews of drawings, specifications, and documentation prior to issue
Project Delivery & Coordination
- Provide technical oversight on major projects, ensuring compliance with design intent, buildability, and regulatory requirements
- Coordinate closely with project managers, design architects, and consultant teams
- Lead technical workshops, coordination meetings, and design resolution sessions
- Support contractor queries, shop drawing reviews, and construction-stage design clarification
Quality Assurance
- Implement quality control processes for drawings, specifications, and BIM deliverables
- Ensure compliance with UAE building regulations, authority requirements, and international standards
- Review and approve key technical submissions, details, and material specifications
Studio Management
- Manage and mentor technical architects, BIM specialists, and project delivery teams
- Allocate resources across projects to ensure efficient studio operations and delivery timelines
- Foster a collaborative environment between concept design and technical delivery teams
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as the primary technical design authority for clients and project stakeholders
- Lead technical presentations and workshops with clients, consultants, and contractors
- Provide strategic guidance on construction methodologies, materials, and detailing solutions
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture
- Minimum 15 years of professional experience, with strong emphasis on technical design and delivery
- Proven experience leading technical design teams on complex projects
- Extensive experience in the UAE or Middle East
- Strong background in detailed design, coordination, and construction documentation
Technical Skills
- Expert knowledge of architectural detailing, construction systems, and materials
- Strong understanding of UAE building regulations and authority approval processes
- Advanced proficiency in Revit and BIM-based workflows
- Solid experience with AutoCAD and technical documentation standards
- Experience coordinating multidisciplinary consultant teams
