THE Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) has elected its youngest ever candidate as president.
Christina Gaiger (33) FRIAS will take over from Robin Webster OBE at the organisation’s AGM today (June 30) and serve as president for a two-year term.
As well as being the youngest president in the incorporation’s history, Christina is only the second female president after Dr Joyce Deans CBE, who served from 1991 to 1993.
Following graduation, Christina has worked on a variety of projects, including universities, education facilities, museum design and domestic architecture, for design-led practices Renzo Piano Building Workshop in Paris and TsAO & McKOWN Architects in New York.
She returned to Edinburgh and joined Helen Lucas Architects Ltd in 2014, being particularly interested in the practice’s work in architectural conservation.
Christina said, “I am delighted and honoured to become the next president of the RIAS and lead the incorporation into a more engaging, relevant and forward-thinking future. Those who know me are aware that I am rarely lost for words. The support from the membership was overwhelming and the clear message for a bolder direction left me speechless and filled with hope. I wish to thank everyone who supported me and took the time to vote. I also wish to thank our outgoing president Robin Webster for laying the groundwork for reform, alongside Gordon Smith and Karen Pickering for an engaging campaign and election process.
“The hard work begins now. I look forward to building a supportive architectural network and to use our platform for stronger advocacy. To publicly stand up for architecture, architects, quality and diversity across Scotland.”
Outgoing president Robin Webster OBE commented, “I wish to congratulate Christina on her election and look forward to working with her on council.”
