An Interview with Ronnette Riley, FARA

Ronnette Riley, FARA

Founder/Principal

Ronnette Riley Architect

Each month, the Affiliate Council Newsletter of the Society of American Registered Architects (SARA) features an interview with an active SARA member. In this edition, Ronnette Riley, an accomplished architect with over 35 years of experience, shares her thoughts on architecture, design, and balancing work and personal life.

Riley believes that sustainability and environmentally sensitive projects are important trends in architecture and design today. However, she emphasizes that design must prioritize the needs and well-being of the user, taking into account beauty, joy, and spirit upliftment.

Riley's inspiration to become an architect stems from her desire to be an artist. She found architecture to be a more stable profession that allowed her to incorporate her varied capabilities. While she doesn't have a singular style, modern design is her favorite, and her firm does a lot of historical restoration work.

For Riley, every new project is her favorite, but she cites the Christian Science Church in Berkeley, California, designed by California architect Bernard Maybeck, as a standout. She has also worked on several retail projects for major brands like Coca-Cola, Restoration Hardware, and Apple. Currently, her firm is working on a new firehouse in Queens and a senior center in East Hampton.

As a woman in architecture, Riley recognizes that female representation in the profession is still lagging. However, she believes that architecture is accommodating for women who want to have families because the profession is project-based and more circular, allowing for flexibility. She advises young women seeking a career in architecture to not be afraid to assert themselves and to have confidence in their abilities.

When asked about her proudest professional achievement, Riley cites sustaining her architectural practice for 35 years. She takes pride in keeping her team employed, providing services to a wide range of clients, winning design awards, and giving back to the community through charitable work.

Finally, when asked about balancing the demands of her career and personal life, Riley quips, "What's balance?" She acknowledges that architecture is all-encompassing, from her travel to her reading interests. But ultimately, she maintains her passion for architecture, finding joy and satisfaction in her work.

In conclusion, Ronnette Riley's interview offers insight into the mind of an experienced and passionate architect. Her focus on user needs and well-being, her appreciation for beauty, and her dedication to her craft make her a valuable member of the architectural community.