Dignity in Design: The Work of MASS DESIGN GROUP

Welcome to ON CITIES, where we explore the ways that the design of the built environment shapes the quality of our lives. Today, we will be speaking with Alan Ricks, the co-founder and chief operating officer of MASS Design Group. Established on the belief that architecture is more than just buildings, MASS is a global team of over 200 professionals from diverse disciplines, united by a shared vision of architecture as a force for positive change. With a focus on creating purposeful, healing and hopeful design, MASS continues to redefine the role of architecture in confronting history, shaping narratives and fostering collective healing and resilience within communities worldwide. Join us on the Voice America Variety Channel this Friday, April 12th at 11:00 AM EST, 8:00 AM PST as we delve into the transformative power of architecture.

Alan Ricks serves as the Chief Operating Officer of MASS Design Group, a firm he co-founded with Michael Murphy in 2010. His extensive background in design, research, and policy has been pivotal in driving MASS's growth and influence. Ricks delivered a TED Talk redefining architectural aspirations, earning acclaim from TED founder, Chris Anderson. MASS's completion of the Butaro District Hospital marked a turning point for the firm, leading to expansion across seven countries, prioritizing design innovation and healthcare infrastructure. A graduate of Colorado College and Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Ricks is recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. Under his leadership, MASS has earned acclaim, named finalists for the TED Prize, The Aga Khan Award for Architecture, and the Buckminster Fuller Challenge. Their accolades include the World Architecture News Buro Happold Award and the Healthcare Design Change maker award. Committed to advancing discussions on design's role in equity, Ricks delivers lectures at institutions like Harvard School of Public Health and contributes to publications like The Lancet and the Huffington Post. MASS's work has been featured in Wired Magazine, New York Times, Fast Company, and numerous architectural publications. Their seminal book, "Empowering Architecture," published in 2012, reflects on the Butaro Hospital's design process, showcasing MASS's dedication to impactful design.