Ryan Mayer – Architect-in-Training
Like many in the architectural field, Ryan has always been fascinated by how things are put together. As a child, Legos were his favorite toy. Later, he delved into photography, drawn to capturing images of nature and buildings.
Then, the Scottsdale, Ariz., native got his first taste of creating something substantial while still in high school. He and his bride-to-be, Maggie, helped design (and build) the house they now live in, under the guidance of her father, a general contractor.
Ryan decided to study architecture as he likes methodically putting things together that are visually beautiful. While working toward his bachelor’s degree at Arizona State University, he gained experience working on a variety of residential and commercial projects, including several churches.
Ambitious and eager to begin work, Ryan was already employed at Drewett Works when he received his diploma in May 2022. He will start studying for his master’s degree in architecture in the fall.
Read on for more about Ryan:
Describe your family. I just love my family. My wife and I have been married for more than three years. We got married just before our freshman year at ASU. Ironically, she also is studying architecture at ASU. I have had the best “study buddy” possible. I am the oldest of five kids, four boys and one girl. I have an amazing mom and dad who have been married for 30 years. My in-laws are awesome, and my wife and I are lucky to have all eight of our grandparents still alive and healthy.
Any good sibling stories? My younger brother broke my collar bone one time, so he has never let me forget about that!
What was your most favorite/memorable job as a teenager? My dad used to be a salesman, so when I was in middle school, he suggested that I go around the neighborhood trying to sell hot sauce to pay for soccer club. I will never forget that.
Free time activities? Spending time with my wife. We love to go road biking, travel or try a new restaurant.
Any special talents? I don’t think this is “cool” anymore, but I can solve a Rubik’s cube.
You’ve won the lottery, how would you spend your time? Working at Drewett!
Dream destination? Thermal baths in Switzerland
What is your favorite memory? Traveling to Romania to visit my wife’s extended family
Proudest moment? Marrying my wife on June 23, 2018
Least favorite food? Coconut. Coconut water is good, though.
Favorite movie genre? Action/adventure
What one life lesson have you learned so far? Trust in God because He knows better than me
Favorite architect? Peter Zumthor
What aspect of your profession do you enjoy most? I love helping create spaces that people love so much that they never want to leave.
Dream project? Residential or hospitality project in Santorini, Greece
Favorite movie? The Incredibles
Beach or mountains? Beach! Preferably the Oahu North Shore
Most embarrassing moment? One day while my brother and I were golfing, he hit his shot behind these two big trees. Being the supportive, smart and loving brother that I was, I thought it would be helpful to stand in the fairway with my arms raised where he needed to land his ball. I was about 50 yards away, and I wasn’t worried that my 10-year-old brother could get anywhere close to me. Well, he proceeded to hit the best shot of his life and drilled me straight in the head.
