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VIEWS
ASK THE ARCHITECT
As co-founder of London based international architecture and urban design practice HKR Architects, Jerry Ryan shares his passion for the history of architecture, and looks forward to a technological future as the practice celebrates its 30th year
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO BECOME AN ARCHITECT?
I guess this stemmed initially from my interest in Roman and Greek history – inevitably leading to a fascination in the construction of their cities. It intrigued me that they had developed such sophisticated skill sets thousands of years ago. Their buildings and public spaces were inextricably linked to the development of their society, culture, and governance. If these cities had not been constructed we would have missed out on Plato’s laws and Aristotle’s philosophies, to name but two.
WHAT KEEPS YOU ENTHUSED ABOUT DESIGN NOW AFTER A LONG CAREER? Architecture for me has always been a great intellectual challenge. Historically architects had to know a little about all disciplines, materials, and technologies. Hence the architect was usually the lead design consultant. I believe the profession must lead, and challenge convention. Using our architectural toolbox we can engender positive impacts on the individual, society, and the environment. New construction technologies intrigue me, as I believe they enable efficiency and affordability.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE SECTOR TO WORK IN?
Residential-led mixed use – because it is all about places for people, from the living
Jerry Ryan, HKR
“Residential-led mixed use is the most challenging, frustrating and gratifying sector to work in”
room to the private terrace, to the active street, to the amenity garden or courtyard. It is the most challenging, frustrating, and gratifying sector. Of course, today residential includes many subsets such as student, co-living, aparthotels, ‘last time buyers,’ and nursing homes. The key is to ensure these new communities include appropriate services and amenities.
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE RUNNING A PRACTICE IN THE PAST DECADE? I would say that apart from ensuring financial stability, it must be team building and the ongoing alignment of the team. Being a design profession, ego and self- belief are invariably essential traits, but must be counterpoised by the development of complementary skill sets and compatible people with integrity who respond to our clients’ needs. Within HKR there are several leaders who contribute to the running of the practice; the ideal bond between leaders can best be described as covalent!
Eblana Avenue co-living, Dun Laoghaire © Paul Moore Photography
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ADF JUNE 2023
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