First published in AIA Architype: April 2025
TSKP STUDIO announces the retirement of Ryszard Szczypek, AIA, a distinguished partner whose career has spanned five decades. Mr. Szczypek's contributions to the field of architecture and his unwavering commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on our firm and the communities we serve.
Born in England, Ryszard immigrated to the United States with his family at a young age. From early on, he understood that his life would involve a combination of art and mathematics. This enthusiasm ultimately drew him to architecture, leading him to graduate summa cum laude from Syracuse University, where he earned the AIA Student Medal.
Reflecting on the essence of architecture, Mr. Szczypek often recalls an Ancient Greek playwright's observation: while many buildings we encounter in life speak to us, a cherished few sing to us. This philosophy has guided his approach to design throughout his career.
“Ryszard joined the firm in 1974, soon after he graduated from Syracuse University Architecture School. He was our first hire since founding the Hartford Design Group in 1970. I still remember his exquisite drawings in his school portfolio and the beautiful drawings he produced for the Hartford Union Station renovation project and the Korean museum project,” said founding partner Tai Soo Kim.
Pictured from right to left: Whit Iglehart, Ryszard Szczypek, Tai Soo Kim
Throughout his illustrious career, Mr. Szczypek was instrumental in developing educational programs for over 40 public schools. His expertise in K-12 education and his ability to navigate the complexities of projects with various funding sources made him a trusted advisor to our clients. Notable projects under his leadership include Guilford High School, Wilton Library, the U.S. Naval Submarine Training Center in Groton, Hartford's Historic Union Station Transportation Center, Bristow Middle School, and the National Museum of Contemporary Art in Korea.
“He is a wonderful writer with a keen sense of business decisions. He has been my partner, advising confidant for the last 50 years. I could not have survived without him. He has been like my brother. I wish him a happy and healthy retirement,” shared Tai Soo.
Mr. Szczypek's thoughtful demeanor, strategic leadership, and creative problem-solving skills earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients. His key to success was always trusting others to contribute their talents.
“Ryszard always could see past the immediate and focus on the long term,” said Randall Luther, a partner at TSKP STUDIO. “When a project would start going south, and everyone was panicking, Ryszard was an island of calm that reassured everyone. We will miss his steady hand.”
Whit Iglehart, a partner at TSKP STUDIO, added that “Ryszard has always displayed a remarkable ability to manage and calmly address the broad range of constituents involved in every project. We will miss his valuable and hard-earned wisdom.”
As Mr. Szczypek embarks on this new chapter of his life, he looks forward to spending more time on his hobbies, including reading and painting. We hope he also plans to explore his alternative vocation as a cartoonist.
TSKP STUDIO extends its heartfelt gratitude to Ryszard for his remarkable contributions and wishes him all the best in his retirement.
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