Zainab Etfif
Liverpool ,United Kingdom
Summary
My architectural journey has been shaped by a combination of academic, professional, and cultural experiences across Saudi Arabia and the UK. Growing up around my family’s real estate business gave me an early understanding of the built environment, which led me to pursue architecture at the Liverpool School of Architecture alongside gaining practical experience in an interior design studio.
Through travel and participation in international workshops, I have developed a strong sensitivity to cultural context and a deeper understanding of how architecture responds to place and community. I am particularly interested in traditional architecture and the adaptive reuse of heritage buildings.
With a background in real estate marketing and interior design, I bring experience in managing design processes and translating client needs into clear, compelling visual outcomes. I am committed to socially and environmentally responsible design, with the aim of contributing to thoughtful, human-centred architecture that creates meaningful impact.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work history
Real Estate Marketing and Design specialist
ATUFAIF REAL ESTATE & ARCHITECTURE PRACTICE - KSA
Qatif , saudi arabia
2016.04 - Current
- Contributed to design and delivery of residential and commercial projects, ensuring alignment with client requirements
- Managed design development from initial concept through to project completion, meeting deadlines and quality standards
- Produced technical drawings and visual materials using AutoCAD and Revit to support design communication
- Translated client briefs into clear, effective design solutions through iterative development and feedback
- Collaborated with clients and team members to refine concepts and enhance overall user experience
- Created professional documentation and presentations using Microsoft Office and design software
- Applied knowledge gained from accredited training with Saudi Real Estate Institute to support project and market understanding
Interior design assistant
AL Hawra Interior
Qatif , saudi Arabia
2026.06 - 2026.08
- Supported client decision-making through selection of furniture, materials, and finishes to enhance overall design quality
- Produced high-quality visualisations and renderings to communicate design intent prior to client presentations
- Developed and presented design proposals including floor plans, elevations, 3D views, and material boards
- Communicated design ideas clearly with team members and clients, incorporating feedback throughout design process
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Architecture
University of Liverpool
Liverpool 2023.09 -
Foundation Degree in Arts - International Foundation in Humanities and Social Sciences
INTO Manchester
Manchester 2022.01 - 2023.01
Skills
- SOFTWARE PROFICIENCY
- Advanced: AutoCAD, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), ArchiCAD, Revit
- Intermediate: Photoshop and InDesign
- Beginner: Rhino, 3ds Max, Corona Renderer, V-Ray, SketchUp
- Scale model making
- Technical drawing
- Design conceptualisation
- 3D modelling
- Design presentation
- Client communication
Certification
- CERTIFIED TRAINING
- Affinity Designer Essential Training
- SketchUp for Architecture Essential Training 2014
- SketchUp Pro Essential Training 2014
- AutoCAD Essential Training 2014
Affiliations
- digital illustration
- Model making
- Interior design
- Learning software
- Travelling
- Karate
- Photography
Accomplishments
- Sole representative of the University of Liverpool and the Arab world in international karate training (2025–2026)
- Completed elite training with champions at Torbay Leisure Centre and received accredited certification
Languages
Arabic
Native
English
Fluent
Persian
Elementary
VOLUNTEERING & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
- CHARITY SOCIETY, SAUDI ARABIA, Participated in community service and charity events.
- UNIVERSITY CAMPUS, Organized and participated in community engagement activities on campus.
ACADEMIC & PROFESSIONAL FIELD TRIPS
Rotterdam, Netherlands — LSA Field Trip (April 2024)
Led by Alexander Dusterloh & Matina Vrettou
- Explored significant architectural landmarks and contemporary buildings
- Documented observations through sketches and photography
Dronero, Italy — Earthen Architecture Workshop (July 2024)
Led by Matina Vrettou
- Collaborated on constructing a community theatre using sustainable earthen techniques
- Gained hands-on experience in traditional building methods and material experimentation
Belfast & International Collaboration — Cinema & Architecture Workshop (October 2024)
Led by Monika Koeck (Cinetecture)
- Collaborated with Belfast University students to produce a short film
- Explored the intersection of cinema and architecture through visual storytelling
Timeline
Interior design assistant
AL Hawra Interior
2026.06 - 2026.08
Bachelor of Arts - Architecture
University of Liverpool
2023.09 -
Foundation Degree in Arts - International Foundation in Humanities and Social Sciences
INTO Manchester
2022.01 - 2023.01
Real Estate Marketing and Design specialist
ATUFAIF REAL ESTATE & ARCHITECTURE PRACTICE - KSA
2016.04 - Current