Since September 2020, Barry Johns is pursuing a Doctor of Design (DDes) at the University of Calgary, a practice based program which is the first of its kind in Canada. His research topic is Infill and missing middle typologies in mature urban neighborhoods focussed on creating community and an environment that fosters innovation and affordability, through new business models and respectful housing development via mass customization. The DDes draws upon reflection and evaluation of one’s own practice, plus broader research into relevant projects around the world. This complex subject in context with an aging Canadian population, dramatically changing demographics and anticipating how we might live in a post Covid-19 world; represents a new chapter in a rewarding career.

Barry Johns Architecture Limited has won one of four 2016 Canadian Architect Magazine Design Awards of Excellence for INFILLHAUS, a competition design for an urban prototype infill residence in a mature Edmonton neighborhood, now commissioned for construction by a private client.

Given each year to architects and architectural graduates for buildings in the design stage, 2016 marks the 49th anniversary of the Canadian Architect Awards of Excellence, which have recognized significant building projects in Canada since 1968. Jurors considered the following criteria:

• Physical organization and form, including attention to composition and detail;
• Response to program, site, geographic and/or urban context;
• Innovation in concept, process, materials, building systems and/or implementation;
• Demonstration of exemplary environmental and/or social awareness.

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After 6 years as Chancellor of the College of Fellows for the RAIC, Barry Johns leaves the position having doubled the number of women in the College and having been instrumental in establishing the Moriyama RAIC International Prize (now known as the RAIC International Prize). With a handmade crystal sculpture designed by Wei Yew and a $100,000 Cdn award, the Prize has completed three cycles with entrants from more than 20 countries around the world. In addition during each cycle three scholarships of $5,000 are awarded to students of architecture in Canada based on a written essay. For more see https://internationalprize.raic.org/

The Robson Square Provincial Government Offices and Courthouse in Vancouver, by Arthur Erickson Architects is one of four buildings in Canada to receive the prestigious  2011 Prix du XXe Siècle Award at the RAIC Festival in June. The project is an internationally acclaimed celebration of Canadian Architecture and Urban Design. Despite some unfortunate recent renovations, it remains one of Arthur Erickson’s major achievements. Barry Johns is proud to have been a member of the project design team and credits this experience to establishing his career.