JOURNAL ENTRY 3 - MARCH 2026

On March 27, 2006, I walked into Studio RYS, formerly known as RYS Architects, unaware that I was stepping into what would become a defining cornerstone of my architectural journey. Working alongside a talented team led by our founder, Bob Sauvageau, I was given the space to grow, to learn, and to understand the importance of both technical mastery and the softer skills that shape true collaboration. It was also here that I met Lisa Haude, whose influence later guided me toward interior architecture and the power of a multidisciplinary approach — where every project becomes less of a solo performance and more of a symphony of people, ideas, and disciplines moving toward a shared vision.

As the years unfolded, I embraced opportunities to evolve with other firms, colleagues, mentors, and teams. Each experience added new layers to my leadership, creativity, and understanding of what it means to design with intention.

Yet the path that brought me here was not the one I imagined as a teenager. Back then, I dreamed of becoming a Pixar animator. But one life-altering moment shifted everything: a devastating earthquake in India. Witnessing the fragility of life and the profound impact of the built environment reshaped my perspective. Architecture became the perfect synthesis of my love for math, physics, and art — a discipline where creativity meets responsibility.

My journey has been guided by what I lovingly call my “village of giants” — family, friends, professors, mentors, colleagues, and industry partners who helped me navigate the complexities of growth. I often think of my tiny grandmother, a fierce Freedom Fighter who stood against the monarchy during India’s struggle for independence, and my uncle, a structural engineer whose relentless pursuit of excellence inspired me deeply as I watched him build an A&E firm from the ground up. From them, I learned that leadership is a balance of boldness and humility; that hard work, discipline, integrity, and perseverance matter; and that mentorship and authenticity are essential anchors.

Today, twenty years later, I am honored to have returned to the place where it all began. Rejoining Studio RYS in late 2024 feels like a homecoming — not to the same role, but to a new chapter. What started as an architectural journey has evolved into something broader: a chance to help guide the firm strategically with a renewed vision that embraces architecture, interiors, storytelling, and artistry. It is a vision built on decades of passion, strengthened by the collective talent of our team.

Change is not simply a requirement for growth — it is the very thing that allows us to endure. And so, the adventure continues, with new chapters waiting to be written.

‍ ‍