Interview with Sean Ronnie Hill and Imran Jahn, RISE Design Studio

[edit] Introduction

RISE Design Studio is an architecture practice committed to sustainability, energy efficiency, and innovation. Co-founded by Sean Ronnie Hill and Imran Jahn, the studio integrates Passivhaus principles, adaptive reuse, and cutting-edge 3D modeling techniques to create buildings that are both environmentally responsible and aesthetically refined. Their expertise extends to helping developers gain planning approval for complex sites—such as backland developments in London - as well as designing new-build homes in the countryside, like the Finn House (a Paragraph 80 dwelling). They also champion modern methods of construction, including CLT (cross-laminated timber), prefabrication, and the use of natural materials to promote low-carbon structural solutions. In this interview, Sean and Imran share their insights on sustainable architecture, innovative construction techniques, and the future of the built environment.

[edit] Q&A

[edit] DW: Can you tell us about the origins of RISE Design Studio? What inspired you to start the practice?

Sean Ronnie Hill: RISE Design Studio was born from a desire to create architecture that responds to the pressing environmental challenges of our time. We wanted to design buildings that not only look great but also perform exceptionally well in terms of energy efficiency, sustainability, and long-term resilience. Coming from different backgrounds in architecture, Imran and I saw an opportunity to combine our expertise to push boundaries in design and construction.

Imran Jahn: Our inspiration came from both personal and professional experiences. We were increasingly aware of the impact buildings have on climate change and saw that the industry needed a shift towards a more holistic approach. We wanted to create a practice that embraced innovation—whether through material selection, digital modeling, or construction techniques—while always keeping the end user and the planet in mind.

[edit] DW: Your work strongly integrates Passivhaus principles. Why is this important to you?

Sean Ronnie Hill: Passivhaus is one of the most rigorous energy efficiency standards in the world. It allows us to design buildings that require very little energy to heat or cool, significantly reducing carbon emissions while enhancing comfort. At RISE, we see this as an essential part of future-proofing architecture. The upfront investment in good design, high-performance materials, and precision detailing pays off over the lifespan of a building, both financially and environmentally.

Imran Jahn: Beyond energy efficiency, Passivhaus provides healthier indoor environments. The air is constantly filtered, reducing pollutants, and the thermal performance ensures stable temperatures year-round. We see it as an essential standard, not just for residential projects but also for commercial, cultural, and educational buildings.

[edit] DW: RISE Design Studio also focuses on adaptive reuse and planning solutions. How does this shape your design process?

Sean Ronnie Hill: Adaptive reuse is about extending the life of existing buildings rather than demolishing and starting from scratch. It’s an approach that significantly reduces embodied carbon and preserves the cultural and historical layers of a place. We love the challenge of working with what’s already there, finding creative ways to upgrade and repurpose spaces for modern use.

Imran Jahn: In addition to adaptive reuse, we also help developers navigate complex planning challenges, such as securing approvals for backland sites in dense urban areas. These projects require a deep understanding of planning policy and a design-led approach that balances density, privacy, and sustainability. We also work on exceptional countryside homes under Paragraph 80, like Finn House, which demonstrates how innovative design can integrate seamlessly into a natural landscape.

[edit] DW: You’ve worked on several community projects, including Elmwood Tennis Club and the Lexi Cinema. Can you tell us more about these?

Sean Ronnie Hill: Community projects are an important part of our portfolio because they directly impact the people who use them. Elmwood Tennis Club in Kensal Rise was about optimizing space and improving the functionality of the facilities while keeping sustainability at the core. The Lexi Cinema, another project we’re incredibly proud of, involved extending and renovating one of London’s most beloved independent cinemas. These projects demonstrate how architecture can foster community engagement and cultural enrichment.

Imran Jahn: Both projects also incorporated sustainable design strategies, from energy efficiency to the use of natural materials. The Lexi Cinema, for example, was designed with a focus on longevity and low-carbon materials to minimize environmental impact. We always aim to balance sustainability with aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that the spaces we design serve their communities for years to come.

[edit] DW: How does technology, particularly 3D modeling and virtual twins, influence your work?

Sean Ronnie Hill: We use digital tools extensively to optimize our designs and ensure clients fully understand their projects before construction begins. Virtual twins—digital replicas of buildings—allow us to test energy performance, material choices, and even construction sequencing before breaking ground. This reduces costly errors and improves the efficiency of the entire design process.

Imran Jahn: Clients love this approach because it makes architecture more accessible. They can walk through their future home or office in virtual reality, experiencing the space before it exists. It also helps contractors and consultants align early on, which leads to smoother project delivery.

[edit] DW: You advocate for modern methods of construction and low-carbon structural solutions. How do these approaches benefit your projects?

Sean Ronnie Hill: The construction industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, and we believe in using materials and methods that significantly reduce environmental impact. We often work with CLT (cross-laminated timber), which is not only a renewable material but also an excellent carbon store. CLT allows us to build faster, cleaner, and with greater precision.

Imran Jahn: Prefabrication is another method we explore, particularly for projects where efficiency and sustainability are key. Prefab components reduce on-site waste and construction time while maintaining high quality. By promoting natural materials and low-carbon structural solutions, we ensure our buildings are resilient, energy-efficient, and future-proof.

[edit] DW: What do you think is the biggest challenge in sustainable architecture today?

Sean Ronnie Hill: One of the biggest challenges is overcoming misconceptions about cost. Sustainable design is often seen as expensive, but when you look at the lifecycle of a building, the energy savings and durability outweigh the initial investment. Educating clients and developers on the long-term benefits is key.

Imran Jahn: Another challenge is regulation. While there’s increasing awareness about sustainability, building codes don’t always push far enough. We advocate for policies that encourage higher performance standards, and we work closely with consultants and industry groups to influence change.

[edit] DW: What’s next for RISE Design Studio?

Sean Ronnie Hill: We’re expanding our presence in Barcelona while continuing to push the boundaries of sustainable architecture in London. We’re also excited about upcoming projects that explore circular economy principles and net-zero construction.

Imran Jahn: Our goal is to inspire the next generation of architects and builders to prioritize sustainability as the foundation of good design. We’re committed to research, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring that RISE continues to make a meaningful impact in the built environment.

--Risedesignstudio