Derek Newby

Architect AIBC, MRAIC, CPHD, LEED AP BD+C

Principal, Managing Director, Vancouver

If you ask Derek what he is proudest of, he’ll say our next project— the opportunity not yet revealed, the building not yet designed. “Our team has an incredible wealth of talent and dedication to designing buildings and places that are thoughtful and generous. Our expectations are high—whatever we do next will reward more people, bring more delight, and open new possibilities.”

Growing up in a rural northern community instilled in Derek a deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship and collective care that today form the basis of his design philosophy and leadership approach. He believes that the influence of both should be to create the best possible conditions for people—and the planet—to thrive.

With a background in Urban Planning, Derek is keenly attuned to the potential of good design in an urban context. He is moved to provide design solutions that go beyond simply satisfying needs—from denser forms of housing that are genuinely great places to live, to transit solutions that transcend infrastructure and provide moments of delight for commuters.

Derek works at all levels of our firm. As the Managing Director of our Vancouver and Calgary studios, he fosters a culture of equity, collaboration, and a rigorous approach to design. In his capacity as Regional Managing Director, he empowers studio leadership across Canada with strategic direction that grows our reach and magnifies our impact to allow us to serve our clients better. And, in 2026, Derek was appointed to our Board of Directors.

Derek’s work is animated by his drive to design a better world—one that creates the best conditions for people to thrive. He has led some of the studio’s most ambitious projects exploring comprehensive strategies to reduce carbon emissions as well as pioneering efforts in mass timber construction. Committed to moving the needle, he lends his expertise to policy discussions that advance a greener built environment for municipalities, the Province, and non-governmental organizations.

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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.