New-works co-Founder elected as RIBA London Chair

New-works Co-Founder Doug Hodgson has been elected as RIBA London Chair for a two year term from January 2026. Here are the principles he stood on, which reflect the values New-works promotes.

New-works Co-Founder has been elected RIBA London Chair

My candidacy is rooted in lived experience across both life and practice:

Running a practice
Collaboration, innovation and responsibility to each other are at the heart of how I approach leadership.

Representation, visibility, and inclusion
Being featured in the AJ OUT edition, highlighted the importance of visibility and why pride for the communities we represent matters in our profession. Adopting our son has expanded my understanding of care and given me a longer term view and focused values.

The Climate Emergency
Retrofit and low-carbon design have become the default for New-works – with a belief that the cycles of time, community, and wellbeing continually shape our architectural practice and the responsibilities we hold.

Mental health, Wellbeing and boundaries
Recognising the ups and downs we all carry is central to building a healthier profession. Also, choosing to focus on the stages of work we enjoy most, and with people we respect — understanding the power of collaboration — is essential to a sustainable life in architecture.

Creative time
Focused, calm and uninterrupted time for thinking and making is essential; we must tell others why this is so important for the built environment and protect it as a profession.

AI as support, not replacement
The AI revolution is here - if used well by practice, it can help ease burnout and reduce the pressures on an overburdened profession.

Teaching at Cambridge and the AA
Over the years, teaching has shown me that learning is reciprocal, and that the next generation of architects help us grow as much as we are helping them.

Disability awareness
Being dyslexic, and growing up with two older siblings with disabilities, has given me a deep respect for the many different ways of navigating and positivity contributing to our communities.

Collective action
I believe deeply in participation and in building a RIBA London that listens, supports, and brings architects together as a collective.