The work of RUFproject, the multi-disciplinary design firm founded by Sean Pearson, contains both a rigorous aesthetic and an open-ness to crossing creative borders. Rather than starting with an idea of form, RUF focuses on the experiential aspect of the space they will create. Leaving behind any pre-conceived ideas of a project, they allow the design to emerge out of the narrative they weave with a client - whether it is a landscape, building, or branding concept.With their wide ranging international experience, grounded in a certain Canadian sensibility, their work is marked by high design standards and originality, but also by a commitment to an in-situ approach that respects the local, even as it references the global. Whether it's an exquisite line in a Salt Spring Island house that brings the outside in and reinvigorates the tradition of West Coast Modernism, or a clever play between solidity and transparency in a Soweto sports stadium that contributes to a new architectural language in South Africa, RUF's vision and integrity shine through.
About the Director
Sean Barrington Pearson
B.ES M.Arch MRAIC
Sean Pearson is the Director at RUF Project. Previously, he led the environmental brand design team as Design Director for Nike in Europe, the Middle-East and Africa. While at Nike several of his projects received notable acclaim, specifically the NikeiD Studios in London and the re-design of Niketown London, which has recently received the World Retail Design Award for 2009.
Following his work with the prestigious architecture firm Hopkins Architects in London UK, Sean joined Jump Studios as their creative head, propelling them to international acclaim with award-winning projects. In recognition of his achievements, Drapers Magazine named him as one of the top 30 Designers Under 30 in 2003. Sean has recently served as a board member with the Vancouver Heritage Society.
Sean was recently awarded the Emerging Architect Award from Western Living Magazine, the Architect Award from the Canada Wood Council, the World Inside Award in Barcelona in the Civic and Culture category for the Football Training Centre/ Soweto and was shortlisted for two World Architecture Awards for Football Training Centre / Soweto and Camo–Density / Or how I Learned to Love Living in a Hedge.
