As Head of Social Impact, Karyn shapes the strategic direction that guides our ethical, community-focused ambitions across the practice, and our commitment as a certified B Corp.
Karyn’s background as a Chartered Architectural Technologist in Welsh education schemes has brought empathy to the heart of her approach from early in her career — learning that design works best when you take the time to listen, engage and create collaboration between designers and local communities.
Today, with over 20 years at Stride Treglown, Karyn is leading our dedicated social impact team. She’s focused on embedding a research framework that is evidence-based and collaborative, ensuring our designs deliver lasting social impact long into the future.
What is the best building in your city?
My favourite building in Cardiff is at St Fagan’s Welsh National History Museum. Their new courtyard atrium scheme was completed by Kier and is a fantastic example of the museum’s ethos and passion for breathing life back into buildings; rejuvenating and making spaces relevant again.
What is your favourite project you’ve worked on to date?
I was lucky enough to run the interior fit out for Cardiff Library. It’s a landmark building and I feel incredibly proud walking past it, knowing that I’m part of something that’s in the heart of the city.
Interesting fact that nobody knows about you?
I’ve got a huge passion for photography. I adore taking portrait pictures, watching faces of all ages and how they change with lighting or emotion. In my spare time, I enjoy photographing my son’s junior rugby team and I get great delight when my photographs bring other people pleasure.
What advice would you give your 20 year old self?
Be more confident, but I think that comes with age. With hindsight, I’d encourage myself to take on new challenges with more self-belief because others already have confidence in you. Construction is a high pressured industry, regularly dictated by cost, programme and design deadlines. Focus on what you can change and the rest will follow.
Industry Bodies:
- CIAT
Awards:
- WICE Best Architectural Technologist 2019 – Winner
- CIAT Architectural Technologist of the Year 2019 – Finalist
- Design & Build UK – Women in Construction Awards 2020 – Winner
- Social Value Champion – Social Value Portal Awards 2022 – Highly Commended
