Story Always Matters: SCAD Alumnus Rich Smith Returns to Alma Mater

For GuernseyTingle’s Rich Smith, AIA, ASID, the story always matters to the project. Rich got a chance to make that important point and share invaluable career advice with students during a visit to his alma mater, the famed Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Rich earned both his Bachelor of Architecture in 1992 and then his Master of Architecture degree from SCAD 1995 and now puts those skills to work as Themed Entertainment Architect & Creative Director at GuernseyTingle.

During his visit to SCAD, Rich offered perspective from the more than two decades he has spent working as both an architect and interior designer focused on responding to client’s needs, while creating spaces that exceed expectations.

Rich walked students through a presentation of project renderings, specifications and design from many of GuernseyTingle’s most notable themed entertainment projects. These included several from Busch Gardens Williamsburg, such as DarKoaster, North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster (nominated for Best New Theme Park Attraction as part of USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice 2024 awards).

Students also got the opportunity to look at the site plan and hear about the design inspiration behind InvadR, Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s first wooden roller coaster. For this attraction, GuernseyTingle was tasked with creating a ride that would be thrilling enough to lure veteran park goers and still draw in younger guests excited about their first “real” coaster experience.

Rich also enticed students with scenes from the tropics, highlighting theming design work for clients such as CHUKKA Caribbean Adventures. GuernseyTingle worked with CHUKKA Caribbean Adventures to reinvent and transform a 3-acre private island near Belize City into a unique and authentic Belizean experience. Drawing from the area’s seafaring Mayan heritage, the design reflects evidence of the Island’s ancient traders and their journeys, which can be seen throughout.

The presentation also included highlights from work in Colonial Williamsburg, Sesame Place, SeaWorld San Antonio and more. Students enjoyed Rich’s presentation and learning more about his passion for helping clients bring great attractions to life.

Rich also offered perspective on the GuernseyTingle culture, with a focus on community being one of the key pillars of the company’s success. The company is also committed to developing the next generation of architects, frequently hiring interns and young graduates for various positions.