Portrait of Derek Newby

Derek Newby

Architect AIBC, MRAIC, CPHD, LEED AP BD+C
Principal, Managing Director, Vancouver

Motivated to create inspiring places for people to thrive, Derek considers his background in urban planning as the foundation that informs his approach to architecture. Fascinated with the energy and possibilities of cities, and inspired by simplicity and functionality, his passion is to elevate ordinary and essential building elements to become virtues.

Recognized for his leadership in sustainable and high-performance buildings, Derek is a Certified Passive House Designer and is an advocate for the responsible use of timber in architecture. He is skilled in bringing focus to complex situations to deliver effective solutions and drive positive outcomes for his clients and team members.

An engaging and collaborative leader, Derek has a determined and inclusive approach to leading the Vancouver and Calgary studios. He has championed the mentorship program in the studio with the objective of helping staff define and reach their goals and was key in the formation of our design review process to establish a standard of design excellence within our projects.

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Say hello to Derek
Orchard Commons, University of British Columbia
Combining student housing, academic uses, and amenities into one facility, the building's intent is to promote diversity and social connection by bringing more activity and life to the heart of the campus.
“I want the buildings we design to create the best conditions for people to succeed—where people feel there are possibilities that didn’t exist before.”
FUN FACT
Derek started his career creating maps and technical drawings for Canadian National Railways, leaving with him a love of cartography.
SoLo
An off-grid prototype, SoLo demonstrates an innovative approach to future building. The prefabricated mass timber building is exceptionally efficient and features a range of strategies to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions.
FUN FACT
Inspired by nature, Derek loves spending his time exploring the incredible geography of the world.
Selfie of Derek in the Alps

Derek 's Featured Work

Canada’s Earth Tower Canada's Earth Tower Winter Gardens
Work
Canada’s Earth Tower
Vancouver, British Columbia
University of British Columbia, Orchard Commons
Work
University of British Columbia, Orchard Commons
Vancouver, British Columbia
SoLo
Work
SoLo
Soo Valley, British Columbia
Marine Gateway Marine Gateway Overview
Work
Marine Gateway
Vancouver, British Columbia
800 Granville Rendering showing the 800 Granville project from the corner of Robson Street and Granville Street
Work
800 Granville
Vancouver, British Columbia
Great Northern Way Office and Pavilion Photo from Great Northern Way showing office building and pavilion.
Work
Great Northern Way Office and Pavilion
Vancouver, British Columbia
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