World Architecture Day 2024
To mark World Architecture Day’s theme “Empowering the Next Generation in Participatory Urban Design”, we’re introducing some of our own architects and their contributions to urban transformation.
Alissar Riachi, Architect
Based in Glasgow, Alissar joined Ryder in 2021 after graduating from the University of Strathclyde with a degree in advanced architectural design. During her final year, she was awarded the Professor Charles Gourlay Memorial Prize for her work exploring the urban fabric of Beirut. Through research and side projects, she explores the relationship between activism, politics, and the built environment, with a focus in post conflict reconstruction.
“Participation in urban design is vital to ensure that the identities of places are driven by humans, amplify diverse voices, and create a positive public realm. Urban spaces are forums for social interaction and should be shaped by citizens, allowing liberty to access resources and exercise collective power to reshape the processes of urbanisation.”
“At Ryder, our work in harnessing the significance of place has enabled me to pursue my passion for community engagement by creating inclusive spaces shaped by place identity. Working on various place based reviews across Scotland, we have adopted a cascade approach of understanding local authority, community, and partner needs, while working to create place programmes that aim to achieve more with less. Our education projects across both urban and rural areas in Scotland are deeply rooted in place identity and include extensive engagement sessions with stakeholders, end users and the community to deliver sensitive schools that sit comfortably in their surroundings and act as catalysts for positive change. Our approach to diverse educational pathways has also inspired me to direct these passions into initiatives at Ryder that engage the younger generation through work experience.”
Andrew Fong, Urban Designer
From our placemaking team, Andrew joined Ryder as an urban design assistant in 2021, after graduating from Newcastle University with a master’s degree in urban design. During his studies, he achieved the William Ault prize as the highest achieving student. He also completed a variety of interior design projects, including residential and hospitality schemes, and a listed church. Andrew is passionate about masterplanning, placemaking for health and wellbeing and designing places for all.
“In my work at Ryder, I’ve seen first hand how engaging with communities and considering their needs can lead to innovative and sustainable urban transformations. It’s inspiring to be part of a profession and work for a practice that has the potential to make a positive, long lasting impact—not just on places, but more importantly, on people’s lives.”
Annabelle Blyton, Architect
After completing her undergraduate degree at the University of Cambridge, Annabelle joined Ryder in 2019 where she gained experience on a range of healthcare projects. She was awarded the Ryder Bursary before returning to her studies at the Bartlett, UCL. Returning to Ryder in 2022, she completed her Part 3 studies to become a UK qualified architect. Following her desire to travel and experience new cultures, Annabelle has transferred to the Vancouver office on secondment in 2024 where she is keen to continue to promote social and inclusive architecture.
“With my background in healthcare design, I strive to promote social architecture and advocate for healthy urban spaces. Inclusive and sustainable design has the power to greatly enhance health and mental wellbeing, and my goal as an architect is to leverage my role to make a meaningful, positive impact on society.”
Estee Tsoi, Designer
From our landscape design team, Estee joined Ryder after completing her master’s in landscape architecture at Newcastle University. She studied in Shanghai and Hong Kong and has an interest in ruins and abandoned landscapes as landmarks of cultural development and aesthetic appreciation.
“We shape places that harmonize with nature. I am proud to play a role in creating sustainable environments which, ultimately, improve people’s lives. For example, improving the biodiversity of healthcare projects though landscaping and communal gardens, providing therapeutic and healing benefits for the patients and an uplifting environment for staff, visitors and the wider community.”
Izzy Williams, Senior Learning and Development Lead
Jude Bacho, Design Assistant
Jude joined Ryder in September 2024 as part of the British Columbia Institute of Technology ACE (Architectural, Construction, and Engineering) program. Working in Adam James’ team in Vancouver, Jude is gaining valuable experience in project management, the technical aspects of design, as well as the collaborative nature of an architectural practice.
“Architecture and design have always been my passion, and I’m excited to learn from Ryder what it truly takes to be an architect. I want to understand not only how buildings are constructed but how they can improve people’s lives. Initially, I thought architecture was primarily about creating visually stunning structures. But since joining Ryder, I’ve realized it’s much more than that—it’s about making people feel welcomed and giving them a sense of belonging.”
Matthew White, Project Coordinator
Matthew joined Ryder in Vancouver in 2020. He graduated from the University of British Columbia in 2018 with a degree in English literature and classical studies. Matthew plays a key role as project coordinator, ensuring efficient handling of project records. He is pursuing a master’s in archival studies and library and information studies, enhancing his expertise in managing critical data.
“Architects generate countless documents, each valuable short and long term. My role focuses on identifying the importance of these documents and that they’re managed efficiently. As the industry moves towards more robust Building Information Modelling processes, I’m passionate about making digital documentation as resilient and lasting as our buildings.”
Zina Berrada, Internal Architect
Zina Berrada joined Ryder in Vancouver in 2024. With a master’s degree in sustainable environmental design from the Architectural Association School in London and a master’s in architecture from Columbia University, Zina brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in low carbon design and place based architecture. During her studies, she received the prestigious Naomi and Percival Goodman Fellowship and the William Kinne Travel Prize.
“The adoption of nondescriptive globalized architecture is the biggest threat to climate action and cultural preservation. As architects, our responsibility extends beyond designing buildings; it is to create spaces that respond to the unique social and environmental contexts they sit in. Doing so not only provides safe and resilient places, it fosters communities, protects our ecosystems, and ensures generational and cultural prosperity. We have all the tools to do so, we just need to collectively decide where to prioritize our resources!”