Built Environment, Architecture & Design

"The Built Environment is going through one of the biggest changes globally, requiring the best talent resources to shape the future."

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of instructions received have been successfully delivered.

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of our candidates are referred to us exclusively.

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of our clients work exclusively with GKR to retain the best talent.

Introducing the Built Environment team:

After six years of working in their respective businesses within the Recruitment Entrepreneur portfolio, GKR founder Grant Kaveney acquired Beeken Reeves in 2021, a specialist architecture & design recruitment business operating across the built environment. With this addition to our services, GKR have expanded into Europe and the Middle East, becoming a truly global brand.

The Built Environment is going through one of the biggest changes globally and our clients require a deep, specialist knowledge to find them the best talent. One business with one shared goal, be the most effective talent partner in the Property & Built Environment globally.

Read the full press release here.

Our Built Environment Clients

Director of Mission Critical

  • GKR worked exclusively with a long standing, international client to secure a new sector leader for their growing Mission Critical business, based in London covering EMEA
  • The scope of the headhunt proved extremely specialised, combining a niche talent pool with demanding role requirements
  • The Exec Search Team mapped the Mission Critical sector globally at leadership level, creating a shortlist with encompassed UK & International talent
  • Through a four stage interview process, GKR were successful in relocating a leadership candidate from a direct competitor. From brief to securing the candidate, the timescale was 12 weeks.

International Design Firm

Workplace Strategy Director

  • GKR worked exclusively with a Director level candidate within the Workplace Strategy market, a complex and small niche within the wider workplace & real estate market.
  • Through this representation, we assisted in mapping the market for said individual and created a shortlist of existing GKR clients as well as new “wish list” firms who could utilise the individual’s experience across the sector.
  • With various confidential conversations taking place, we identified three suitable opportunities and proceeded to partner with the candidate through the interview process with each firm.
  • The Director was successfully offered a role within 10 weeks of initially engaging GKR.

Architecture & Interior Design Consultancy

Interior Design Project Leaders

  • GKR worked exclusively with a Director level candidate within the Workplace Strategy market, a complex and small niche within the wider workplace & real estate market.
  • Through this representation, we assisted in mapping the market for said individual and created a shortlist of existing GKR clients as well as new “wish list” firms who could utilise the individual’s experience across the sector.
  • With various confidential conversations taking place, we identified three suitable opportunities and proceeded to partner with the candidate through the interview process with each firm.
  • The Director was successfully offered a role within 10 weeks of initially engaging GKR.

Multidisciplinary Design Studio

Senior Interim Interior Designer - Workplace

  • GKR collaborated with award-winning workplace architecture and design firm, seeking an interim senior interior workplace designer to work on a contract basis.
  • With a new project on the horizon, a firm timeline was provided with urgent support needed with a proven track record of successfully seeing workplace projects through from conception to completion.
  • GKR assisted by mapping the market, shortlisting candidates and providing portfolio's that demonstrated the requirements of the position.
  • As a result of successfully reaching out to our connections utilizing  our resources and through streamlined communication GKR were able to fill this role within 10 working days. 

Award winning Interior Architecture Consultancy

Project Director

  • GKR worked exclusively with an award-winning international design practise with their search for a Project Director within the Architectural Defence space.
  • Mapping opportunities across the market place by working closely with an exclusive candidate pool, we were able to effectively align desired skillsets and experience with our clients growth needs, creating a bespoke role to tailor their business strategy and project planning processes.
  • With support and insights provided from GKR, the Project Director successfully started within the role within 8 weeks of their first conversation with GKR.

Award-winning Design Firm


See more Built Environment Jobs


Uncover a world of creativity and innovation in the built environment, architecture, and design. We specialise in connecting exceptional talent with dynamic roles that shape the physical landscape. Whether you're an architect, urban designer, or interior designer, discover a range of opportunities that allow you to contribute to transformative projects.

From sustainable design practices to cutting-edge urban planning, our opportunities span the spectrum of the industry. Elevate your career in a field where your creativity and expertise can make a lasting impact. Begin your journey toward a fulfilling career by exploring the possibilities within the built environment, architecture, and design.

See more jobs.

Common Built Environment Questions

Our expertise spans a variety of roles, including architects, urban designers, interior designers, and professionals within the broader built environment. We're dedicated to connecting talent with opportunities that shape the physical world.

Our team is always on hand to discuss further. Currently, there's a growing demand for professionals with expertise in sustainable design, digital architecture, and urban planning, reflecting the evolving priorities in the built environment.

Highlight your key projects, emphasising creativity, sustainability, and problem-solving skills. Showcase your proficiency in relevant design software and any specialised experience that sets you apart in the field.

Career paths often begin with roles such as junior architects or designers, advancing to senior positions, project management, and even leadership roles. We provide personalised guidance based on your unique career goals within the built environment.

Timelines vary, but we aim for an efficient process. From initial contact to final interviews, the recruitment process typically takes four to six weeks, ensuring thorough assessments and informed client decisions for roles within the built environment, architecture, and design.

Meet the Built Environment team

Anu Deb Anu Deb
Director
Joined November 2014

Anu Deb

Tastefully designed with sophisticated interior features.

Anu joined GKR in 2014 with an ambition to help expand the office support division of GKR; coming from property herself Anu grasped the market quickly and now works with all of London’s biggest and most successful property brands. With a family history in catering, it’s no wonder Anu is quite the chef herself. 

Grant Kaveney Grant Kaveney
Founding Director
Joined July 2010

Grant Kaveney

Boasting an enviable position and state-of-the-art outdoor braai.  

In 2010, it was the right time for Grant embark on his own adventure after helping scale a recruitment business from South Africa. Biltong is almost always the answer; he makes his very own for the team and it's not to be missed! An avid fisherman, Liverpool supporter, proud South-African and strangely capable beatboxer - watch out Ed Sheeran!

Julian Murray Julian Murray
Director
Joined September 2024

Julian Murray

Boasting a strong foundation with expansive potential, offering a modern and polished interior. 

Julian joined GKR in September 2024 as a Director within the technical real estate space, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his lengthy career in recruitment. With a strong focus on the technical aspects of real estate, Julian is set to play a pivotal role in expanding GKR’s expertise in this sector. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him cycling through scenic routes or spending quality time with his family. 

Lee  Riley Lee  Riley
Senior Director
Joined October 2016

Lee Riley

A perfect example of period property with luxuriously fitted carpets.

Lee has worked in residential recruitment since late 2015 after working in the property sector for almost seven years himself. Whilst our entire team’s food bin/hoover, he’s a self-declared Asian food addict. Historically pooch obsessed; now with a fur baby of his own, he’s got the situation under control.

We specialise in five key sectors

  • Commercial

    The commercial team provide permanent and contract services to leading property and construction consultancies in the Private & Public Sectors as well as developers, banks and funds.

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  • Residential

    With experienced consultants and ex-property professionals in one team, they are market experts working with High Street Agents, Corporate giants, Developers and Investment Agencies.

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  • Property Management & Office Support

    With first-hand experience in both roles, we represent Managing Agents, Facilities Services, High Street Agents, Student Accommodation providers, Investment Funds, Interiors & Design practices supplying property management and office support functions.

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  • Built Environment

    The team have worked hard to develop long standing relationships with practices ranging in size, niche and specialism throughout the design and build industry delivering both permanent and professional interim/contract solutions.

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  • Finance & Investment

    Our finance division is comprised of a specialist team placing individuals across development, investment, funds and advisory across the UK and Europe. Our clients span Finance & Accountancy, Private Equity, Debt, Property Companies, REIT’s and Advisory from Analyst to Director/Partner level.

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