Studio | Christian Rice Architects Inc.

meet christian

Founder and Architect

Christian founded his firm in 2004, following several years of working in the nation’s most respected design studios, including Will Bruder Architects in Phoenix, Michael Rotondi/Roto Architects in Los Angeles, and Mack Scogin Merrill Elam Architects in Atlanta. Christian’s association with the studio of Mack Scogin and Merrill Elam culminated with the construction of the new Lulu Chow Wang Student Center at Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts.

Christian grew up in both San Francisco, CA and Fort Worth, TX, and received a Master of Architecture degree from Arizona State University and completed his undergraduate work at the University of California, Berkeley. His architectural perspective is broadened through an active love of international travel, as well as the opportunity of living in many different locales across the country.

our team

christian rice

Founder and Architect

Christian’s love for architecture started during his childhood in Fort Worth, Texas, surrounded by a new construction boom. He developed a knack for space planning and several decades later that talent was put to use designing homes in Coronado, CA. In 2004 he founded his firm and brought with him Western Region design influences he embraced while living in Arizona and the San Francisco Bay Area. Christian has since built a leading reputation and team in the San Diego area known for their innovative approach to beautifully designed homes.

derek hatch

Senior Project Manager

A San Diego native, Derek’s interest in architecture and design began early, building cars and motorcycles alongside his father. This foundation evolved into a lasting passion, further strengthened by nearly a decade of experience across multiple facets of the construction industry. These experiences have shaped a balance of real-world practicality and creative drive. Derek’s experience on high-profile, award-winning projects has equipped him well for any project.

carlos turrubiartes

Staff Designer/Project Captain

Carlos is a San Diego native whose passion for architecture took root at Southwestern College and was fully realized through his studies at NewSchool of Architecture & Design in the heart of downtown. With five years of professional experience, he has cultivated deep expertise in multifamily design — bringing a versatile skill set to every phase of a project. Beyond the studio, Carlos channels his creativity and energy into the vibrant life San Diego has to offer, usually with a yerba mate in hand.

yangtze peralta

Staff Designer/Project Captain

Born and raised in San Diego, Yangtze (pronounced jahn-tse) has been fascinated by design for as long as he can remember. He earned an undergraduate degree in Architecture from the University of San Diego and a Master’s degree from NewSchool of Architecture & Design. "My goal as a designer is to create meaningful architecture that leaves a lasting impact and inspires future generations of creatives."

yoon jeong

Staff Designer/Project Captain

Yoon was born and raised in Orange County, and also frequented San Diego to spend holidays with extended family. Once she received her Bachelor of Architecture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 2023, she relocated to San Diego. Outside of work, she enjoys ceramics, photography and traveling. "What is special about architecture is the coordination and teamwork required to actualize buildings. I hope to contribute to making spaces that nurture health, hold stories, and influence how we connect with the earth and experience the world."

kristi prado

Office Administrator

A natural outgrowth of the firm’s success was the need to add administrative and business support. Kristi joined the team in 2016 to provide administrative oversight and new business insights cultivated during her previous corporate career in the medical device design industry.