We are delighted to share that Edward Powe, a graduate of our Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Practice in Architecture (2021), has been named a RIBA Rising Star 2025.
About the award
The RIBA Rising Star Award, run by the RIBA Journal, celebrates emerging leaders in architecture who are redefining practice and pushing the profession forward. It recognises those who combine design excellence with innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to positive change in the built environment.
This year’s judges praised Edward for his craft-led approach, his dedication to natural materials, and his ability to bring the “energy and creativity of co-creation” to every project, no matter the scale.
Edward’s reflections
When asked what the award means to him, Edward shared:
“I’m delighted to have been chosen by the RIBAJ to be part of this year’s cohort, alongside some incredibly talented people. To me, it represents recognition of a wider shift toward more collaborative working practices in the construction industry. I hope the award will help our practice bring the craft-led approaches we’ve been developing to larger projects and collaborations.”
On the work that led to this recognition, Edward explained:
“Through Studio Folk, we’ve been championing the use of natural materials, craft, and more collaborative construction processes. Judges praised our co-creation approach and design strengths, and I’m proud that even the smallest projects have been recognised for their creativity and collaborative spirit.”
The role of PACE in Edward’s journey
Edward credits his time at PACE as pivotal in shaping his practice:
“Through the PG Cert in Professional Practice, I gained the ability to look critically at how we work as architects; our responsibilities to stakeholders and wider society, how we deliver and manage projects, and how we shape contractual relationships. That foundation forms the basis for how Studio Folk approaches practice.
“The course was incredibly varied and offered a wide range of perspectives on how architects can structure their practice. That variety was the key takeaway for me, and it helped inspire our practice ethos.
“It widened my lens on what innovation means in the construction industry. Many barriers to good design stem not from technical limitations but from unclear responsibilities, weak contractual frameworks, and poor communication. That perspective has completely reshaped how we lead projects and where we direct our efforts to create meaningful change.”
What’s next
Looking ahead, Edward and Studio Folk are working on exciting new projects:
- Public realm installations across two London sites
- A new-build home in Devon, pioneering the use of natural sandstone bricks
- Advocacy for natural stone as a low-carbon alternative to traditional materials, through publications, design festivals, and collaborations with established practices
Advice for future PACE students
Edward offers this encouragement:
“Talking about responsibilities, costs and risk in an open way is a fundamental part of what makes for successful relationships and collaborations in the construction industry. There’s no such thing as a question that is too ‘simple.’”
Words from Cambridge
Timothy Brittain-Catlin, Course Director for the MSt in Architecture and referee for Edward’s nomination, reflected:
“Edward is an outstanding and exemplary practitioner and designer. Even as a student he demonstrated a breadth of interest in aspects of architecture and a level of engagement which went a long way beyond those of even the best regular students. He is committed not only to teaching but also to all forms of outreach that enhance the public understanding of the value of design, and he has set himself an ambitious but achievable goal of establishing a model of professional practice which is already proving inspirational.”
Lifelong learning, lifelong impact
Edward’s achievement is a powerful reminder of how education continues to shape lives and professions long after graduation. At PACE, we are proud to support learners who go on to make a difference, not only in their own careers, but in the wider world.
You can find out more and sign up to our new MSt in Architecture now.
The programme is rooted in sustainable technologies while also offering a dedicated specialist stream for students committed to traditional architecture and urban design. Delivered over three years on a part‑time basis, it provides a rigorous and immersive route into the profession, designed to support both emerging practitioners and those already working within the field.
Applications close 28 May 2026.
Life continues. So does learning. And with it, the future of architecture.