urban’s 2020 Salary Surveys
urban is proud to publish our latest salary surveys of the architectural and interior design markets within London, Dublin and the US. Our salary surveys were carried out across our candidate and client base throughout 2019 for our most comprehensive yet.
London Salary Survey
The interior design sector remained buoyant, with clients who specialise in high-end residential and hospitality projects recruiting heavily throughout the year causing demand to outstrip supply. 2019 was undoubtedly challenging for the UK architectural sector, particularly during the second half of the year, however coming into 2020, we project a continuation of the trend for companies to seek Revit-skilled, technically minded staff across all levels. Our clients are telling us that they are now looking to build their teams, with their clients ready to invest after keeping large schemes on hold in 2019. Likewise, in an increasingly competitive market, candidates who were previously nervous about committing to a job role move during 2019 are now telling us it’s the right time for them to explore what’s in the market.
Positive social change is sweeping over the London architectural market, with a real focus on mental wellbeing. The creation of working environments that provide equal opportunities to women and men alike is a top priority, and above all, the industry continues to move towards recognising that a more diverse workforce creates a more effective working environment. This is supported by the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust and a push for change from the RIBA.
Dublin Salary Survey
The limited labour pool of the Irish Republic, particularly in Dublin, resulted in real positive change for candidates. Last year companies in the market are competing to offer the most competitive salary, whilst enhancing their employee benefits and developing their working environments. The continuing investment from the tech giants in 2020 will see a significant change in commercial offices and mission critical sectors. The recent Irish election outcome and housing crisis will result in enhanced demand in the residential sector.
One positive consequence of Brexit for the Irish markets has been an increase in numbers of European candidates. This is due to Irish staff who were working in the UK and Brits wary about post-Brexit Britain relocating to the UK’s nearest EU neighbour.
US Salary Survey
The US market remained incredibly busy throughout 2019, and saw urban’s US team grow significantly during the year. Our architectural clients in the US remain highly confident in workloads continuing to increase throughout 2020. Despite government priorities differing, the climate crisis is a key priority for US Architects, with specialists in green design and sustainability in high demand. High demand remains for senior level licensed architectural and interiors staff across all our primary markets.
2020 looks to be an exciting year for both urban and the Architecture and Interior Design industry!
BeMore green. BeMore inclusive. BeMore urban.