As you prepare to launch your architecture career, a standout cover letter for an architecture internship can elevate your application. More than just a companion to your resume, it’s a chance to tell your story in a way that resonates with potential mentors.
For interns, it’s an opportunity to showcase academic projects, volunteer work, and a strong willingness to learn—qualities that can set you apart when professional experience is limited.
The key is to weave in your proudest professional moments—even if they’re not work-related. As you aim for a polished tone, dodge the mundane clichés and keep it concise. Remember: your story, told in a single page, is your first blueprint to success.
Key takeaways
- Personalize your cover letter with a tailored greeting and specific references to the company’s work.
- Use the introduction to demonstrate enthusiasm and a direct connection between your skills and the role.
- Highlight unique strengths or experiences in the body, including university projects or volunteering efforts.
- Keep your formatting professional: consistent with your resume, concise, and no longer than one page.
- End with a confident call-to-action, a polite closing, and a reference to your enclosed resume.
Architecture intern cover letter example
Once you’re done with your architecture intern resume, you can start thinking of a cover letter that complements it. How about this one as a sample?
Marcus Hall
marcushall@enhancv.com | (212) 555-01XX | New York, NY
12/5/24
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear Hiring Manager,
With a Master’s degree in Architecture from Harvard University and hands-on experience in sustainable design, I am eager to contribute to your mission of creating innovative and environmentally conscious spaces.
Collaborating on a large-scale residential project during my studies at HOK, I ensured precise documentation and coordination, resulting in its successful completion on time and within budget. These experiences helped me hone my technical expertise and foster a strong commitment to sustainability.
While volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, I contributed to designing and building sustainable housing for underserved communities. This experience allowed me to apply my technical skills to real-world challenges while strengthening my commitment to socially impactful architecture.
I am excited to contribute my skills, learn from your team, and gain hands-on experience to grow as an architect. Please feel free to contact me to arrange an interview.
Kind regards,
Marcus Hall
How to format your new architecture intern cover letter
As an architect, you’re fully aware that what things look like is vital. While no intricate designs and color combinations are needed, your cover letter outline should make your document easy to read and concise enough to entice hiring managers.
Let’s begin arranging it by focusing on your document’s design.
Cover letter design tips
When formatting your cover letter, keep in mind simplicity is imperative.
- Choose a professional template that’s easy-to-read and professional.
- Stick to single spacing and one-inch margins: this is important so that your letter fits on one page.
- Keep the length up to 350–400 words, with several short paragraphs. Your cover letter should be like a short advertisement of your skills, not a life story.
- Make sure you choose a font that matches the one you used on your resume. It’s best to use a modern favorite, like Rubik, Chivo, or Raleway.
The ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) won’t be assessing your cover letter, but it should still be presentable and well-formatted.
Our cover letter builder ensures all these requirements are met. If you've already taken care of your resume, learn how it would perform against real ATS.
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Contact information
Don’t let your dream job slip away due to a typo or missing detail in your contact information—accuracy is key.
- Place your essential contact information, such as your name, phone number, email address, LinkedIn profile, and physical address, at the top of your cover letter.
- Just below, add the date and the contact details for the company you’re applying to.
Formatting and structure
Here are the essential building blocks of your document:
- A header that matches your resume for consistency and professionalism.
- A polite, formal greeting, personalized to your point of contact whenever possible.
- One or two engaging paragraphs that highlight your fit for the role without repeating your resume.
- A closing paragraph with a call-to-action and a note of appreciation for the reader’s time.
- A professional closing such as “Kind regards” or “Sincerely,” followed by your name.
Use a traditional naming convention, such as “MarcusHallCover_Letter.”
If you opt for the classic cover letter, make sure you use a PDF to keep everything in place. But sometimes, depending on the company and the job ad, you might choose to go with an e-note.
| COVER LETTERS | E-NOTES |
|---|---|
| The classic way to go | Easier to read on mobile |
| Follow standard business letter format | Follow a standard email format |
| More formal and longer | Less formal than a cover letter and shorter than one page |
| Enclosed as a separate printed document/attachment | Written directly in the email body |
Key qualities of an architecture intern
- Architectural software proficiency: Expertise in tools like AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is essential for modern design work.
- Architectural theory and history: Demonstrating knowledge of design principles and architectural history reflects a well-rounded education.
- Portfolio strength: A compelling portfolio showcases creativity, technical skills, and relevant project experience.
- Building codes knowledge: Familiarity with building codes, standards, and sustainability practices indicates practical awareness.
- Communication skills: Clear communication—visual, oral, and written—might seem straightforward, but it’s crucial for effective collaboration and idea sharing.
- Hands-on experience: Previous internships or relevant work experience signal industry understanding and project exposure.
How to choose the right cover letter greeting
A strong cover letter salutation is key to making a positive impression. Start by identifying the person responsible for hiring to personalize your greeting. You can usually find their name on LinkedIn or the company’s website. Addressing your cover letter to a specific individual demonstrates initiative and attention to detail—qualities highly valued in the architecture field.
If you’re unable to identify the recruiter, don’t resort to the generic “Dear Sir/Madam.” Instead, use a greeting that feels more professional and tailored, such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear HR Team.” These options strike a balance between formality and approachability.
Professional greetings you can use to begin your cover letter
- Dear Hiring Manager,
- Dear Project Lead [Last Name],
- Dear Principal Architect [Last Name],
- Dear [Firm Name] Design Team,
- Dear [Firm Name] Partners,
PRO TIP
Your cover letter allows for a slightly less formal tone than your resume, but it’s essential to maintain a businesslike approach throughout.
How to write your architecture intern cover letter intro
When it comes to your cover letter intro, resist the temptation to simply recap your resume. HR professionals have already seen your experience. Use this opportunity to deliver a brief—no more than two sentences—but captivating insight that sparks their interest and gives them that “Aha!” moment.
Here are a few examples of what your intro could do:
- Address challenges: Reference a specific challenge or ambitious goal the company is pursuing and hint at how your skills or perspective could help them overcome it.
- Start with a standout achievement: Highlight a relevant accomplishment, such as a successful project or award, that immediately sets you apart as a candidate.
- Show cultural fit: Emphasize how your personality, values, or approach align seamlessly with the company’s work culture or mission.
- Express genuine passion: Share why the company’s mission, recent projects, or innovative strategies inspire you and connect with your aspirations.
Whichever one you choose, you show you’ve researched the company and are ready to align with its needs.
Cover letter intro
With a keen eye for innovative design and a deep respect for sustainable architecture, I am eager to contribute to the groundbreaking projects at TerraFirma Associates, as your compelling integration of natural elements in urban contexts resonates profoundly with my academic and project work.
How to write the body of your architecture intern cover letter
Your cover letter body is an opportunity to expand on your introduction and present a compelling narrative about your skills and passions. Focus on unique strengths and experiences that might not easily fit into a traditional resume format.
If you lack work experience, emphasize relevant coursework, academic projects, or personal initiatives that demonstrate your skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity.
For a cover letter for an architecture intern, you can go one of two ways:
- A brief story about a university project or internship where you contributed creatively or solved a design challenge.
- A few strong bullet points highlighting specific skills or achievements that demonstrate your ability to thrive in the role.
Your goal is to give recruiters a clear picture of the value you bring to their team and the unique perspective you offer as a budding architect. Keep the tone confident, concise, and tailored to the role.
Cover letter body example #1
During my final university project, I designed a sustainable mixed-use development that reduced projected energy usage by 30% through innovative passive solar techniques and green materials. This project, awarded “Best Sustainable Design” by the faculty, evidences my strong commitment to environmentally responsible architecture and my ability to deliver cost-effective, energy-efficient solutions.
Hint: As an intern, no one expects you to have lots of experience, but if you decide to, the proper place to address it head-on is in your cover letter.
Here’s an example that does that and uses bullet points:
Cover letter body example #2
While I may not have extensive professional experience, I bring valuable skills and a strong foundation in architecture that can contribute meaningfully to your team:
- Proficiency in architectural software: Adept in AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, I have developed detailed technical drawings and dynamic 3D models, demonstrating precision and creativity in visualizing design concepts.
- Strong research and analytical skills: During my coursework, I led a material analysis study that identified cost-effective and sustainable alternatives for urban design projects, showcasing my ability to combine innovation with practicality.
- Effective time management and adaptability: Balancing academic projects, internships, and volunteer commitments, I consistently delivered high-quality work on tight deadlines, proving my ability to thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
How to write the closing paragraph of an architectural intern cover letter
In the closing paragraph of your cover letter, wrap up your candidature and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company. As an intern-to-be, express your eagerness to learn and grow under experienced mentors.
Finally, include a polite call-to-action, such as a request to discuss your suitability further in an interview. To demonstrate initiative, you could mention a specific plan to follow up at a designated time.
Remember to thank the recruiter for their time and consideration, leaving a positive and professional impression. Tailor your closing statement based on who you’ve addressed your letter to.
- If you know the recipient: Use a professional yet personable closing such as Sincerely, Best regards, Kind regards, or Warm regards.
- If you don’t know the recipient: Opt for a neutral, formal closing like Yours faithfully, Respectfully, or With appreciation.
Either way, sign off with your name and surname.
Additionally, it might be a good idea to mention you’ve enclosed a resume to your application. You can do that by simply adding “Enclosure: resume” after your name.
Conclusion
A well-crafted cover letter lays the foundation for your success—tailored, concise, and designed to emphasize your passion for architecture.
