Barry J. Hobin
Founding Principal, OAA, FRAIC, Hon. Fellow AIA
Barry J. Hobin, OAA, FRAIC, Hon. Fellow AIA is the founding partner of Hobin Architecture Incorporated, a firm with over four decades of experience shaping Ottawa’s architectural landscape. Under his leadership, the firm has become widely recognized for its contributions to residential, civic, and mixed-use design, and for its commitment to community-building through architecture.
“We don’t just design buildings. We create places that people connect with—visually, emotionally, and socially.”
Mr. Hobin is a passionate advocate for the profession. He has served as President of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, Chairman of the Committee of Adjustment for the City of Ottawa, Design Committee Chair for the Kanata Town Centre, Site Selection Director for Habitat for Humanity, and Building Program Chair for Carleton University’s Board of Governors.
His career has been marked by numerous accolades, including the Lifetime Design Achievement Award from the Ontario Association of Architects and the King Charles III Coronation Medal from the RAIC, both in 2024. He was appointed to the Order of Ottawa in 2020, received the Integrity and Ethics Award from the General Contractors Association of Ottawa in 2018, and was honoured with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013. Earlier in his career, Carleton University recognized him with the A.D. Dunton Alumni Award for his contributions to the field.
“Context shapes everything—whether it’s an urban context or a suburban one. Architecture should make sense in its place.”
In 2023, Hobin Architecture was named Outstanding Small Business Philanthropist by AFP Ottawa, a recognition of the firm’s civic and charitable leadership. Barry accepted the award on behalf of the team, reflecting his personal commitment to mentorship and giving back. He also developed the television series Homes By Design with Sound Venture Productions, showcasing exemplary residential architecture across Canada and internationally.
Founder, Hobin Architecture Incorporated, Ottawa
Lifetime Design Achievement Award, Ontario Association of Architects
King Charles III Coronation Medal, Royal Architectural Institute of Canada
Order of Ottawa, City of Ottawa
Integrity and Ethics Award, General Contractors Association of Ottawa
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal
Adjunct Research Professor, School of Architecture, Carleton University
A. D. Dunton Alumni Award, Carleton University
President, Royal Architectural Institute of Canada
