Architecture Cover Letter

A model cover letter for an architectural position aimed at securing a role in building design. Discover effective techniques and sample cover letter examples tailored for architect jobs.

However, before you can prove your talent, you need a robust architecture cover letter that stands out amidst the competition like a flagpole against a bay window.

This guide on architecture cover letters will provide you with:

– Examples of architecture cover letters that surpass 9 out of 10 others.
– Tips on crafting a flawless cover letter that design firms in architecture adore.
– Strategies for capturing their attention with a polished and professional architectural cover letter.
– Inspirational architecture cover letter examples to ignite your creativity.
– Techniques for effectively showcasing your skills to secure the architecture jobs you desire.

Crafting an architectural cover letter as sturdy as a Vierendeel truss is simpler than you may think. Keep reading to discover more!

Architecture Cover Letter Sample

Ilona Turenchenko

1234 35th St, #6

Astoria, NY 11106

March 1, 2019

Jessica Calatrava

Hiring Manager

SHoP Architects

233 Broadway, 11th Floor

New York, NY 10279

Dear Jessica,

As an urban design student and NYC-based architect, I was thrilled when I stumbled across your opening for the junior architect position. My previous architecture experience has honed my creativity, design, and teamwork skills, among others, and I know I have the skills and knowledge required to take SHoP Architects into the next chapter.

During my time at Big Apple Architects, I learned and developed many skills and abilities which would carry over well into the junior architect role at SHoP. My 2+ years of experience producing design and construction document drawings gives me an excellent starting point for this new role.

During my time at BAA, my wins included:

• Delivered all project budgets within 99% accuracy of completed costs.
• Led design of more than 25 residential and commercial building properties.
• Instituted new collaboration approach with project management team which saw a 35% decrease in planning time.

As my accomplishments show, I am very proud of the work that I do, whether it’s interpreting design intent into working drawings or leading production of CAD drawings. If awarded the opportunity to prove myself at SHoP, I will come with that same work ethic and motivation.

I would welcome the chance to discuss SHoP’s upcoming projects and plans and share with you how my wins at BAA can easily transfer to your agency for any project type.

Sincerely,

Ilona Turenchenko

P.S. I’d love to meet you for a coffee and explain how I believe my 99% budget accuracy could be translated to my work at SHoP Architects.

What format works best for an architecture cover letter?

Before you commence writing, strategize your architecture cover letter to ensure it possesses structural soundness. How? Organize your cover letter for architects in a format as straightforward as post-and-beam construction.

Below is a sample outline for an architect cover letter to adhere to, akin to a fundamental design concept:

Architect Cover Letter Sample—Format Template

• Your contact info and the date of writing
• The architectural design agency’s details in a business letter format
• An opening greeting (e.g., Dear Ms. Calatrava,)
• An intro statement which gets their attention
• A paragraph on why you’re the perfect architect for hire
• A paragraph on why this specific architectural firm is perfect for you
• A closing sentiment with a powerful call to action
• A complimentary close (e.g., Sincerely) and your full name
• Optionally, a postscript (P.S.) after your signature block

That’s the cover letter’s overall structure. But what’s the ideal length for a cover letter when applying for architect positions?

Ensure your application letter ranges from 200 to 300 words, adjusting based on your experience level. This length is sufficient to encapsulate your experience and achievements while preserving spatial organization.

A captivating introduction for an architect’s cover letter that resonates with HR managers

The demand for architect positions in the US is projected to increase by 4% from 2016 to 2026, resulting in the addition of over 5,500 jobs. This means that standing out is crucial, much like the vibrant hues adorning St. Basil’s Cathedral.

To achieve that, crafting an architecture cover letter opening that resonates with the firm’s principal is essential. Reviewing examples of architecture cover letters can provide insights into the right approach.

When it comes to the greeting or salutation in your architect cover letter, beginning with the recipient’s name is highly effective. Research indicates that people respond positively to hearing their name, especially their first name. Here’s how straightforward it can be:

Architecture Cover Letter Example—Salutation
WRONG
Dear sir or madam,
RIGHT
Dear Jessica,

It’s as simple as a 90° corner! Utilize resources like the agency’s website, LinkedIn, or other means to uncover the partner’s name you should address the letter to.

If you prefer a more formal tone, addressing them by their last name is preferable to not using their name at all: Dear Ms. Calatrava. Can’t find their name?

Not to worry. Opt for a neutral cover letter salutation, such as Dear Hiring Manager. This is still preferable to using “To whom it may concern.”

Architect Cover Letter Introductory Statement
Just like the anticipation surrounding the unveiling of a new skyscraper, the introductory statement of your cover letter commands attention. Therefore, here’s the blueprint for crafting an impactful self-introduction:

Examples of Cover Letter Introductions for Architecture Jobs
WRONG
My name is Ilona, and I’m interested in applying for the junior architect position you recently advertised. After reviewing your various projects across the city, I’ve noticed that my architectural tastes align with the styles you employ.

RIGHT
As an urban design student and architect based in NYC, I was ecstatic to come across your vacancy for the junior architect role. Drawing from my previous experience in architecture, I’ve developed a strong foundation in creativity, design, and teamwork, among other essential skills. I’m confident that my expertise aligns well with the requirements of SHoP Architects, positioning me to contribute effectively to the firm’s future endeavors.

The wrong example focuses solely on the applicant without showcasing enthusiasm or relevance. It’s akin to cheap vinyl siding compared to the solid stone cladding evident in the right example. In the latter, there’s a display of genuine enthusiasm, pertinent skills, and a seamless transition into the subsequent main body section.

Write a Great Middle for Your Cover Letter for Architects

It’s now time to span your worthiness for the job in the main body. In the next 2–3 paragraphs, here’s what the architecture cover letter body area needs to cover:

• Explain why you’re the best architect candidate for the job.
• Give numbers to prove some key past accomplishments.
• Demonstrate the skills and know-how you have match their needs.
• Show them they’re the only architectural firm you want to be at.

Here’s a sample junior architect cover letter body:

Cover Letter Architecture Example

While working at Big Apple Architects (BAA), I acquired and honed numerous skills and competencies that are highly transferrable to the junior architect position at SHoP. With over two years of experience in generating design and construction document drawings, I believe I am well-prepared for this new role.

During my tenure at BAA, my achievements included:

– Successfully managing project budgets with a 99% accuracy rate in comparison to completed costs.
– Spearheading the design of over 25 residential and commercial building projects.
– Implementing a novel collaboration strategy with the project management team, resulting in a 35% reduction in planning time.

These accomplishments underscore my pride in my work, whether it involves translating design concepts into detailed drawings or overseeing the production of CAD drawings. If given the opportunity to contribute at SHoP, I am committed to bringing the same level of dedication and enthusiasm that has characterized my work thus far.

How to Close Architectural Cover Letters Like a Boss

Similar to how a masonry vault relies on the installation of the keystone to support itself, an architecture cover letter lacks structural and strategic integrity until it concludes in a manner that piques the interest of the agency principal to delve into the attached resume.

Therefore, here’s the framework for crafting a compelling closing paragraph:

Architecture Cover Letter Examples

The first example is curt and lacks warmth—an architectural design flaw. In contrast, the second example is as stylish as an inward-sloping roof, providing a satisfying conclusion while politely inviting the agency partner to explore your qualifications further.

As impactful and elegant as a Late Gothic corbel. Finally, a closing sentiment and your full name:

Sample Cover Letter Architecture—Valediction

Sincerely,

Ilona Turenchenko

Tough, right? And finally, we have the postscript. Adding a P.S. below the signature on your architecture design cover letter isn’t mandatory.

However, it’s a great hack to try grabbing their attention one last time. Here’s one in practice:

Architecture Cover Letter Samples—Postscript