20 Bjarke Ingels Group NYC Interview Questions and Answers

Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) is a Copenhagen and New York-based firm that specializes in architecture, urbanism, and design. The company was founded by Bjarke Ingels in 2005.

BIG has completed a number of high-profile projects, including the 2 World Trade Center in New York City, Google’s North Bayshore campus in Mountain View, California, and the Amager Bakke waste-to-energy plant in Copenhagen.

If you’re hoping to land a job at BIG, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your experience, skills, and qualifications. To help you prepare, we’ve gathered a list of sample Bjarke Ingels Group interview questions and answers.

Bjarke Ingels Group NYC Interview Process

The interview process at Bjarke Ingels Group NYC is generally quick and straightforward. Most applicants report being asked standard questions about their work experience and education, as well as their favorite BIG project. The overall process usually takes about 15-30 minutes. Some applicants have reported a longer wait for results, but most say the experience was positive overall.

1. What is your experience with CAD and other design software?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn about your experience with the tools you’ll use at Bjarke Ingels Group. If you have no prior experience, consider taking a class or learning on your own before your interview. You can also discuss any other software programs you’re familiar with and how they relate to architecture.

Example: “I’ve used CAD for several years now, but I’m always looking for ways to improve my skills. I recently took an online course that taught me some new techniques for using CAD. I think it’s important to continue learning because technology is constantly changing. In addition to CAD, I am proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.”

2. Describe a time where you had to manage multiple projects at once.

This question can help the interviewer understand your ability to multitask and prioritize tasks. Use examples from previous work experience that highlight your organizational skills, time management abilities and attention to detail.

Example: “In my last role as a project manager, I had to manage multiple projects at once. One of my main responsibilities was overseeing construction on two different buildings at the same time. In this position, I learned how to effectively delegate tasks to my team members so they could complete their own projects while also helping me with mine. This helped us meet deadlines for all three projects.”

3. What do you think are the most important qualities for an architectural designer?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have a strong understanding of what it takes to be successful in this role. When answering, consider which qualities you possess and how they help you succeed.

Example: “I think one of the most important qualities for an architectural designer is creativity. I am always looking for new ways to solve problems and create unique designs. Another quality I find essential is communication skills. As someone who works with clients, contractors and other designers, it’s important to me that everyone understands each other and can communicate effectively. Finally, I believe collaboration is another crucial skill because architects work as part of a team.”

4. Why should we hire you over another candidate?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can benefit their company. To answer this question, think of a few reasons why you are the best candidate for the job. You can highlight your skills or experience that matches what they’re looking for in an employee.

Example: “I am the most qualified candidate because I have five years of experience working as a project manager. In my previous role, I managed a team of 10 people while overseeing multiple projects at once. This is similar to the role here, so I know I can handle it well. I also have excellent communication skills, which will help me work with clients and other employees.”

5. Do you have any experience working in a team environment?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your teamwork skills. Teamwork is an essential skill in architecture, so it’s important that you can show how well you work with others.

Example: “I have worked in teams throughout my career as an architect. I find that working together allows us to solve problems and create better designs. In my last position, I was part of a team of five architects who were all working on different projects. We met once a week to discuss our progress and any issues we were having. This helped us collaborate and support each other.”

6. What is your favorite type of architecture?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential future coworker. It can also help you determine if the candidate’s personality and interests align with those of the company. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific building or architect that inspired you.

Example: “My favorite type of architecture is modernism. I love how simple and clean many buildings from this era are. They’re so elegant and beautiful. One of my favorite architects is Frank Lloyd Wright. His work is just stunning. I’ve always wanted to visit Falling Water.”

7. How would you describe your approach to design?

This question can help the interviewer understand your design philosophy and how it aligns with their company’s values. Describe a specific project you worked on that demonstrates your approach to design, or discuss an aspect of your process that is important to you.

Example: “I believe in designing buildings that are functional and beautiful at the same time. I also think it’s important to consider the social impact of architecture and urban planning projects. In my last role as a senior architect, I was tasked with creating a master plan for a city park. My team and I decided to create spaces within the park that would be suitable for different age groups. We designed playgrounds, walking trails and picnic areas so that families could enjoy the park together.”

8. What are some of your favorite buildings/architects?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential new colleagues. It also helps the interviewer get an idea of what you like in terms of architecture and design. When answering this question, try to mention buildings or architects that are similar to BIG. This will show the interviewer that you have experience working with similar companies and can adapt quickly.

Example: “I love Frank Gehry’s work. I think he has created some of the most unique structures in the world. I would love to be able to create something as beautiful as his pieces one day. Another architect I admire is Zaha Hadid. Her designs are so bold and creative. She was definitely an inspiration for me when I first started my career.”

9. When was the last time you had to work on a project that didn’t go well, how did you handle it?

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and how you can learn from past mistakes. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest about the mistake you made but also highlight what you learned from it.

Example: “The last time I had to work on a project that didn’t go well was when I first started my career as an architect. I was working on a residential design project for a client who wanted a modern home with lots of open space. However, after designing the house, I realized there wasn’t enough space in the backyard for the client to build a pool. So, I went back to the drawing board and redesigned the entire house so that it would have more room for a pool.”

10. Are you comfortable managing people?

This question is an opportunity to show your leadership skills. As a project manager, you will be responsible for managing the team and ensuring that everyone stays on track with their tasks. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a time when you managed a large group of people or successfully led a team.

Example: “I have experience leading teams in my previous roles. I find that being a good communicator is essential to managing people. If someone has questions about their work, I make sure to answer them as quickly as possible so they can get back to their task. I also like to give praise when it’s due because it helps motivate employees to do well.”

11. Give us an example of a time when you were able to improve upon the design of a building or space.

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you’re willing to take initiative and improve upon the design of a space. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide specific details about how you improved upon the design and what the outcome was.

Example: “When I first started working as an architect, I had just finished designing a building for a client who wanted a very modern look. However, when I presented my designs to the client, they were not happy with them because they didn’t fit in with their company’s branding. So, I went back to the drawing board and redesigned the building so that it would match the brand of the company.”

12. Have you worked in a collaborative setting before?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you interact with your team and whether you have experience working in a collaborative setting. Collaborative work environments are common in architecture firms, so it’s important to show that you’re comfortable working with others on projects.

Example: “In my previous role as an architect, I worked alongside other architects, engineers, interior designers and landscape designers. We all collaborated on every project we took on, which helped us create unique designs for our clients. In my current position, I also collaborate with my team members to come up with new ideas for each project.”

13. What are some of your interests outside of architecture?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and see if you would fit in with their team. They want to know that you are a well-rounded person who is passionate about architecture but also has other interests. When answering this question, try to mention something that shows your creativity or problem-solving skills.

Example: “I love to cook, so I am always looking for new recipes to try out. I find it relaxing to create meals from scratch and experiment with different ingredients. It’s like solving a puzzle because you have to figure out how to combine the right flavors together to make an amazing meal.”

14. Tell me about your design style.

Employers ask this question to learn more about your design style and how it fits with their company’s. Before you answer, think about what kind of designs you’ve created in the past. What is your favorite project? How did you approach that project?

Example: “I have a very modern design style. I like clean lines and simple shapes. In my last position, I was tasked with creating an office space for a tech startup. The client wanted something sleek and minimalistic but also fun and exciting. I decided to create a bright space with lots of natural light. We used bold colors and geometric patterns on the walls and furniture. It turned out really well.”

15. Can you tell me about a time when you had to solve a problem that was not straightforward. How did you approach the problem?

This question is a great way to assess your problem-solving skills. It also allows the interviewer to see how you approach challenges and what strategies you use to solve them. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide specific details about the situation and the steps you took to resolve it.

Example: “When I was working as an architect in my previous firm, we were designing a new building for a client who wanted us to incorporate a lot of glass into the design. However, they also wanted the building to have a unique look that would make it stand out from other buildings in the area. We decided to create a facade with different textures on each side of the building. This allowed us to meet our client’s needs while creating something visually appealing.”

16. What kind of architecture do you specialize in?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your background and experience. You can answer this question by describing what you enjoy most in architecture, such as residential or commercial projects.

Example: “I specialize in residential and commercial projects that are innovative and unique. I love working with clients who want something different from the norm. In my last position, I worked on several high-rise buildings that were mixed use. One of these was a hotel that had retail space at street level. The other was an apartment building that had office space on the top floors.”

17. What is your process from initial concept to finished product?

This question is a great way to see how you approach your work and the steps you take. Your answer should include all of the important aspects of your process, including research, design and development.

Example: “I start by researching my client’s needs and wants for their project. I then create sketches that show different concepts and ideas. After this, I develop 3D models that allow me to test out various designs and layouts. Once I have decided on a final concept, I begin construction.”

18. If hired, what would be your approach to designing a new public park?

This question is an opportunity to show your creativity and problem-solving skills. You can describe the steps you would take in designing a new public park, including how you would gather information about the area and what materials you would use.

Example: “I would first conduct research on the surrounding neighborhood by speaking with local residents and business owners. I would also look at other parks within the city for inspiration. After researching the area, I would create a plan that incorporates the needs of the community while still being unique. For example, if there was a nearby lake, I might design a park around it so people could enjoy the view.”

19. What do you think is the most important thing to remember when trying to be innovative?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of innovation and how it can be applied in the workplace. When answering this question, you should focus on what makes something innovative and why that’s important.

Example: “In my experience, I’ve found that the most important thing when trying to be innovative is to remember that there are no rules. While some things may work for one project, they might not work for another. You have to be willing to try new things and experiment with different ideas until you find something that works.”

20. Tell us why you want to work at Bjarke Ingels Group NYC.

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your personality and how you feel about their company. It’s also an opportunity for you to show that you’ve done some research on the organization. When preparing for this question, make sure to read through the job description so you can refer to specific requirements or expectations.

Example: “I want to work at Bjarke Ingels Group NYC because I’m passionate about architecture and design. Your projects are innovative and creative, which is something I strive for in my own work. I think I would be a great addition to your team because of my attention to detail and ability to collaborate with others.”