WHAT’S YOUR NAME?
Ryan Hansen
WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO CHOOSE THE FIELD OF ARCHITECTURE?
From a young age I have been interested in how environments are crafted – from Star Wars ships, to baseball stadiums, to comic book scenes. I loved drawing and tracing anything I saw, so it was a perfect fit.
WHAT TYPE OF WORK ARE YOU MOST INTERESTED IN?
I really enjoy exploring unique, sustainable material development and urban street-oriented design.
WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES SINCE OBTAINING YOUR ARCHITECTURE DEGREE?
Right now, I am totally in ARE study mode, but it’s a fun challenge so far!
WHAT DID YOU LIKE ABOUT ARCHITECTURE SCHOOL?
The best part of architecture school was finding people like me that were invested in building things with our hands, in debating spatial politics, and sharing our passions for design at all scales.
ANY CRITICISMS OF THE ARCHITECTURE EDUCATION EXPERIENCE?
I think the studio curriculum could definitely benefit from more focused and hands-on projects, rather than all open-ended explorations.
WHAT ARE YOUR PROFESSIONAL GOALS?
As an architect, I want to work my way into developing projects that can serve as examples for the future of sustainability, materials, and urbanism. But first, I need to get licensed!
WHO DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ARCHITECTS?
I love Rafael Moneo’s designs – they are all so nuanced and clever with the way they use traditional materials, queues from surrounding urban networks, and sunlight.
Photo: Gitte Thijssen
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE BUILDING OR CITY?
Utrecht Centraal is a gorgeous train station in the Netherlands that I think is a great example of how an urban hub can enhance the mobility and vibrancy of its city.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO GET OUT OF YOUR AIA BROOKLYN CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP?
I am excited to meet more designers in New York that can help me navigate the industry and investigate pressing issues in architecture.
