John Blanchard is Principal, Creative Director, and Director of RAA’s London Studio, where he leads creative direction and ensures the studio’s output aligns with the firm’s global vision. He provides strategic guidance, oversees the design process, and fosters a culture of thoughtful, holistic design.

His project highlights at RAA include the International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum in Liverpool, Belfast Stories in Northern Ireland, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Visitor Centre in Dubai, IKEA Museum in Sweden, and the Midleton Distillery Experience in Cork.

John is a key advocate for innovative public spaces, with a passion for projects that promote learning, reflection, and social impact. His diverse client roster includes Adidas, FIFA, IKEA, Pernod Ricard, and the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office, National Parks Singapore, among others. Beyond RAA, John actively mentors emerging design leaders through the IKENGA Organization, fostering diversity in cultural and design spaces.

He holds an M.A. in Architecture (Din Associates Prize) from the Royal College of Art.