A practical checklist for UK architects building or updating their portfolio in 2026. From case study structure to PDF export and AI-assisted writing here's what hiring managers are actually looking for.
You've done the work. The projects are there. But something isn't landing and you're not sure what.
The architecture job market in 2026 is largely digital. Hiring managers review portfolios on screens before they ever pick up the phone. That means your portfolio isn't just a design artefact it's a sales document that needs to work without you in the room.
This checklist covers 12 things most architects miss. Work through each one before your next application or client pitch.
A clear opening project — your strongest case study first, not your oldest
Project narratives — brief, concept, outcome for every project (3 sentences minimum)
A mix of drawing types — plans, sections, elevations, renders, hand sketches
Mobile-optimised layout — 60% of views happen on phone or tablet in 2026
A shareable link, not just a PDF — links are tracked and always current
One-click PDF export — for job applications and RIBA submissions
Contact details on every page — don't make people search
Sustainability work clearly labelled — net-zero, retrofit, biophilic are priority keywords for UK firms
Project categories and filters — helps employers find relevant work fast
A short bio in first person — specific, genuine, no jargon
Updated in the last 6 months — a stale portfolio reads as inactive
AI-assisted project descriptions — use Orbi AI to sharpen your writing without losing your voice
All 12 of these are built into the Planbase workflow. No extra software. No learning curve. Start free at planbase.app.
