On Tuesday 26 November, we continued this year’s professional networking series with our inaugural Property Networking evening at the offices of Ryder Architecture, London.

The evening kicked off with the OOs in attendance networking with one another before Samantha Rowntree, Director of Development and Engagement, welcomed everyone and introduced David Leech, Architectural Director at Ryder, who was our keynote speaker.

David’s interesting and insightful keynote started with his love of space invaders and how that has integrated into his work today. Looking at three areas that Ryder has worked on or is currently working on, David spoke of the changing property climates since COVID and how spaces are changing. They all included fewer offices or fewer shops in shopping centers, leading to empty spaces, and how architecture firms are taking spaces and giving them back to the community, allowing multiple uses for the future. Invading and reinventing spaces.

The floor opened up to the attendees, who had the opportunity to ask David questions about the changing property climate, what brings people to places, and how offices or shopping centers can thrive in the current climate.

It was a great opportunity for OOs from 2023 to 1969 to meet one another, exchange views, and enjoy a drink and some food in the center of London. It was wonderful to see OOs from so many industries, from property, law, art, architecture, and photography.

We are continuing to work on our professional networking events, which are made possible by the support and generosity of OOs who host or offer to be our keynote speakers. If you know of anyone or could support yourself then please do get in touch.