In the workplace today, it is important that we are known to others, and to ensure that others are aware of our resourcefulness. Networking can be one of the most powerful and productive activities an individual can do to launch and manage their career.

The upcoming BEAT MIX will take place on May 1st, 2024 and will specifically focus around issues architects and designers face when they make the decision to have children. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions related to better understanding practices in place at offices to facilitate parental leaves, navigating the field once returning to work, work from home policies, and shedding light on the financial, social and cultural dynamics of raising children while managing a career. This BEAT MIX will serve to cultivate a valuable opportunity for those interested in understanding how to manage the balance between thriving at work and home, as well as network and meet colleagues in similar stages of their career. 

BEAT MIX will include five invited featured guests who are stationed in breakout rooms. The featured guests will comprise of Partners and Principals from local design firms of various sizes, along with leaders in the professions. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with the featured guests and meet a succession of individuals in small groups throughout the evening. Our panel of featured guests has been curated to share their unique experience navigating parenthood and practice. 

BEAT encourages interns, emerging practitioners and seasoned professional to join this interconnected community to share information, advice and opportunities.

Limited space available.

Tickets will be released at noon on Monday, April 15th, 2024.

Register online here

Fee: $20

Featured Guests Bios:

Olga Pushkar
Architect, OAA, FRAIC | Principal, KPMB

Olga is a principal of KPMB Architects and has a proven record in the design and delivery of projects recognized for architectural excellence and social impact across diverse sectors. She has played a leadership role in award-winning projects completed at renowned Canadian firms Ian MacDonald Architects, Shim-Sutcliffe Architects and MJMA.

From 2000 to 2006, Olga was a core design team member of KPMB. She was a key contributor to the Governor General’s award-winning Project Grand Jeté for Canada’s National Ballet School. Olga also worked on the Mike & Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre at the University of Waterloo, where she was responsible for stakeholder engagement and programming during schematic design.

Olga rejoined KPMB in the Fall of 2020. Her skills in project management combined with her extensive knowledge of materials and systems for constructability and durability have been integral to the realization of holistic and sustainable architecture. Her experience is enriched by her history of local and international participation in non-profit organizations that provide affordable homes and shelters.

Francis Guanlao
Lic. Tech, LEED | Partner, RAW Design

As a partner at RAW, Francis brings a wealth of experience across diverse sectors including residential, adaptive re-use, healthcare, and heritage conservation. With 20 years of experience, Francis takes the helm in overseeing RAW projects during the working drawing and construction phase. He provides invaluable guidance to RAW’s team and clients, navigating through the life cycle of the project. Francis also assists in maintaining the quality control and contract admin standards at RAW. Apart from the work at RAW, he served on the board of the OAAAS from 2018-2022. Furthermore, in his spare time he is an avid cyclist who enjoys the city by bike or on gravel roads and singletrack.

Stephanie Hosein
Architect, OAA | Associate, Omar Gandhi Architects

Stephanie is a registered Architect with the Ontario Association of Architects and an Associate at Omar Gandhi Architects. She attended Dalhousie University and received the AIA Henry Adams certificate and RAIC High Honour Roll upon graduation from the Master of Architecture program. Stephanie is driven and detail-oriented, naturally taking on a leadership role in any project she is involved in. Her wide range of project experience in both new construction and adaptive re-use includes commercial, hospitality, residential, offices and higher education. Project credits include leading the firm’s restaurant projects (Prime Seafood Palace and Lady Marmalade) and multiple single-family residential projects, including Teph Inlet.

Stephanie is a founding member of Building Equality in Architecture Toronto (BEAT) and currently sits on the Advisory Committee. Past BEAT contributions include Executive Committee Chair (2021-2023), Sponsorship Chair (2019-2021) and co-organizing the annual Forum, focused on creating awareness and promoting equity, diversity and inclusion in the field of architecture and design. She also volunteers her time mentoring through the OAA internship program and post-secondary institutions.

Siobhan Sweeny
Architect, OAA | Sweeny &Co Architects Inc.

Siobhan is an Architect, mother, and Toronto creative who is deeply passionate about thoughtful city building and advocating for housing in urban communities. She graduated with distinction from the University of Toronto with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree, receiving a double major in Architecture Studies in Design, and in Fine Art History. She also has her Master of Architecture from the John H. Daniel’s School of Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Design.

Siobhan is a fastidious and spirited team player who deeply believes that architecture and design can make the world a better place. She has experience in office, residential, hotel, retail, and education sectors. She is also a brand ambassador for Sweeny&Co Architects, active in public discourse and efforts to communicate the company’s philosophy and message.

When she is not designing, you can find her parenting her two-and-a-half-year-old and four-month-old baby, seeking out the city’s latest food hall or art exhibit, and championing good city development.

Kyra Clarkson
Architect, OAA, FRAIC | Founder, Kyra Clarkson Architect Inc.

Kyra is the founder of Kyra Clarkson Architect Inc., a design-oriented architecture studio with a focus on creating warm, modern houses that sit thoughtfully in the fabric of the city. Their work aims to bring natural daylight into the core of projects, create fluid connections between interiors and landscape, and exhibit an elegant simplicity in all details. Their work has been published in the Globe and Mail, Canadian Architect, Designlines, Monocle and Dwell.

Kyra is also a co-founder of MODERNest Inc., an architect-driven development company with a commitment to building well-designed contemporary houses in Toronto. She runs this business with her husband, Christopher Glaisek.

Kyra enjoys participating in architecture reviews and has lectured on the topics of Architect as Developer and Infill House Alternatives. Sitting on a ULI technical advisory panel, she provided strategic advice to the City of Toronto, which shaped the 2023 multiplex zoning by-law Amendments. Kyra is a member of the Ontario Association of Architects, the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards and the Toronto Society of Architects. She sits on the BEAT Advisory panel and was elected to the College of Fellows of the RAIC in 2022.

Join BEAT and SOSA (Society to South Asian Architects, Canada), as we collaborate and host our first //MIX of 2023 at the EQ3 showroom. 

BEAT X SOSA // MIX  will include five Featured Guests from various sectors in the Building Industry. All Guests have an educational background in architecture and have successfully transitioned into senior roles in various sectors such as Government, Real Estate Development, University, Project Management and Construction. At this MIX, we want to encourage a discussion focused on the diverse opportunities available for those with an architecture background. 

Our Featured Guests include:

Johanna Stille, OAA, M. Arch., B. Arch. Sc.
Senior Planner, University of Toronto, Mississauga
Sector – University

Johanna is a Senior Planner in the Facilities Management and Planning Department at the University of Toronto Mississauga with 14+ years of experience in Canada and abroad. Johanna has a passion for impacting people through thoughtful, well planned, design that promotes a sense of belonging, community, equity, and diversity. Past projects at UTM include planning the Office for the Mississauga’s of the Credit First Nation, Outer-Circle Recording Studio, and multiple classrooms and research laboratories.

Prior to her position at UTM, Johanna was an Architect at RAW Design in Toronto and bbp Architekten in Kiel, Germany, as well as a Designer at Dubbeldam Architecture + Design and Brisbin Brook Beynon Architects. Her project portfolio in consulting covers a wide range of typologies including the Helicopter Airport and Administration Building for the Federal Police Squadron in Oberschleissheim, Germany, The Milton Sports and Recreation Centre, and several boutique homes, mid and high-rise condominiums.

Johanna is a registered architect with the Ontario Association of Architects and holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Toronto (2009) and a Bachelor of Architectural Science from Ryerson University (2003). She has been a guest critic at the University of Toronto, Ryerson University, and guest speaker at the Toronto Society of Architects.

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Mehrdad Kolour, OAA, M. Arch., B. Arch. E.
Manager of Technology, Matheson Constructors
Sector – Construction

Mehrdad Kolour is a Manager of Technology and a licensed OAA architect with a wealth of knowledge in the intersection of technology, construction, and architecture. With a focus on large-scale projects in sectors such as ICI, residential, and healthcare, Mehrdad has developed a strong skill set in using the latest tools and technologies to optimize project efficiency and quality. His expertise extends to managing complex BIM models, integrating information from multiple disciplines, existing conditions, and point cloud data.

Prior to joining Matheson Constructors, Mehrdad held positions as a regional BIM manager and architect at several renowned architectural firms across Canada and the US. With a dedication to delivering high-quality work and a passion for utilizing technology to enhance architectural design, Mehrdad Kolour continues to make a significant impact on the industry.

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Mélisa Audet, OAA, M. Arch., B. Sc. Arch.
Manager, Practice Advisory Services, OAA
Sector - Government

Mélisa is a licensed architect in Ontario with over 18 years of post-graduate experience in architectural design, construction, and project management. Since 2019, she is the manager of Practice Advisory Services at the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) and works alongside practice advisors to coordinate the delivery for a broad range of practice services that support architectural firms and the public. Mélisa obtained both her Bachelor of Sciences and Master of Architecture from McGill University in Montreal.  In 2014, she completed her certificate in project management (construction) from Toronto Metropolitan University.

Fully bilingual (French and English), Mélisa has acquired extensive project experiences working with private practices in Toronto and Montreal, Federal Government Agencies, as well as with working at a construction management firm.  She brings practical insight from different points of view from our industry.

She got elected and joined the OAA’s Council in 2017 and was the Vice President of Regulatory from 2018 to 2019. Mélisa was also an active member of the McGill Alumni Board of Directors in Toronto from 2014 to 2018 as well as the Toronto Society of Architects from 2017 to 2018.  She has volunteered for Habitat for Humanity GTA chapter.

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Vaibhav Jain, B. Arch., MDes
Development Manager, Marlin Spring
Sector – Real Estate Development

Vaibhav is a Real Estate professional with a background in business and design, with over fifteen years of experience in collaborating across multiple lines of businesses. Vaibhav’s expertise is in project / design management and real estate development strategy of different asset classes across Canada, US, Asia, and Middle East. Vaibhav moved to Canada in 2019 and is currently working at Marlin Spring as a Development Manager overseeing high-rise condo developments in the GTA. Before this role, Vaibhav worked at RE Development in US and India, and worked as an Architect for a Scottish firm based out of Hong Kong.

Vaibhav is trained as an Architect from the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), Delhi and completed his Master’s Degree in Real Estate Development from Harvard University, Graduate School of Design. Vaibhav strongly believes in the philosophy of ‘design is the new business horizontal’ and views development through the lens of design and finance. In his spare time, he enjoys reading Manga and kayaking in summers.

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Vishal Sawlani, B. Arch., M. Sc.
Director – Project Management, CBRE
Sector – Project Management

Vishal is a Director of CBRE’s Project Management Services in Central Canada and is responsible for leading the business development efforts, developing client solutions, and ensuring outstanding service delivery and value creation for Clients. An Architect by background, he has 10+ years of experience in Canada, the Middle East, and Asia and has worked on corporate offices, retail malls, mixed-use developments, high-rise towers, entertainment centers, and residential housing projects.

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Building Equality in Architecture (BEA) exists to initiate change, building momentum to create a shift in the profession. As a group dedicated to enabling great architects to do great work, we understand that each of us must contribute to our fullest. Design excellence, diversity and equity are therefore not mutually exclusive.

Society of South Asian Architects, Canada (SOSA) is a not-for-profit organization that embraces and aims to promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the professions of architecture and design. SOSA was established in 2021 by a small group of architects who identified the need for a community-based professional organization to represent the interests of South Asian architecture and design professionals in Canada. Our mission is to support our communities by creating opportunities for networking, advocacy, mentorship, education, and outreach.

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About our venue sponsor:

In a world of excess, EQ3 is focused on a new way forward—one that values quality and never compromises on craft. They own the means of their production to keep costs fair and prices honest, as they believe by making enduring designs, they can leave a lighter footprint. Aligned with their mission to create timeless designs that honour the people who make them and the places they’re made, EQ3’s talented artisans are masters of craft, focusing on creating with longevity in mind to produce functional forms that are inherently non-disposable—ensuring a more beautiful future.

BEAT and SOSA encourages Interns, emerging practitioners and seasoned professionals to join this interconnected community to share information, advice and opportunities.

As part of 2022 DesignTO Festival, BEAT is excited for our first MIX in collaboration with Global Furniture Group.

Building Equality in Architecture exists to initiate change, building momentum to create a shift in the profession. As a group dedicated to enabling great architects to do great work, we understand that each of us must contribute to our fullest. Design excellence, diversity and equity are therefore not mutually exclusive.

Networking can be one of the most powerful and productive activities an individual can do to launch and manage their career. In the workplace today, it is important that we are known to others, and to ensure that others are aware of our resourcefulness. BEAT MIX is a platform to develop a series of relationships across Toronto’s Architecture and Design communities. BEAT is excited to host this event in collaboration with Global Furniture group - a company founded with the vision of manufacturing well-made office furniture at affordable prices.

BEAT MIX includes four Featured Guests who are stationed in specific breakout rooms. The Featured Guests comprises of Partners and Principals from local Architecture firms of various sizes, along with leaders in the Design Community. Participants have the opportunity to interact with the Featured Guests and meet a succession of individuals in small groups throughout the evening.

BEAT encourages Interns, emerging practitioners and seasoned professionals to join this interconnected community to share information, advice and opportunities.

Limited space available.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions and for the safety of our community, this event will be held virtually via Zoom.

Panelists:

Brooke Anderson, NCIDQ, BID, ARIDO, IDC, LEED Green Associate

Senior Interior Designer, HOK

Brooke is a passionate designer who loves to connect with her peers and get exposed to new and exciting ideas. She has diverse experience working in an array of industries, including: workplace, hospitality and residential, as well as government, justice and healthcare. She is active in the design community currently as a member of the ARIDO Communications Committee.

Brooke is detail-oriented, well-versed technically and a strong communicator, enabling her to effectively lead teams of designers and subconsultants to deliver projects successfully. She believes that recognizing other individual’s passions for interior design, architecture and engineering is a key component to creating strong teams that deliver exceptional projects.

Kellie Chin,OAA, M.Arch

Architect, Workshop

Kellie is an Architect at WORKSHOP with an interest towards promoting social responsibility and invigorating local communities. She has completed various buildings in Toronto as well as projects with Toronto’s Shelter, Support & Housing Administration, working on the new Rapid Housing Initiative, and 1000 Shelter Beds Project

With an interest in housing equity, she contributed to work published in the book House Divided and Azure Magazine. Most recently, she co-authored The Case for Compassionate Design in Housing Standards, an independent project to research the connection between health and housing published by Spacing.

Patricia Lussier, AAPQ

Landscape Architect, Associate, Design Principal , Lemay

Lemay associate Patricia Lussier has over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur and design leader, bringing a sensitivity to history and genius loci to each design. Commemoration and interpretation are at the heart of her concerns and her approach. Her wide-ranging experience in multidisciplinary projects and competitions of all scales enriches her overall vision at every project stage. She has always worked to refine her expertise in expressive signature development, both in terms of design narrative and specific compositional elements such as furniture, paving patterns and the use of materials and plants with a sense of identity.

Often a pioneer in her practice, Patricia Lussier has always had an interest in integrating sustainability in a simple, efficient and creative way. She is the winner of national and international awards, for such high-profile projects as Espace 67, Place des Montréalaises, Belvedere du Chemin-qui-Marche, Gatsby Condos and the Hypernature 066 contest in Montreal.

Deborah Wang, MFA, OAA, M.Arch

Architect, Artistic Director, Co-Director, DesignTO

Deborah Wang is a Taiwanese Canadian curator and architect based in Toronto, with a broad range of experience in contemporary art, design, and architecture that spans two decades. She holds a Master of Fine Arts from OCAD University, and a Master of Architecture from the University of Waterloo, where she was awarded the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Student Medal.

As artistic director of DesignTO, she co-leads the non-profit arts organization that produces Canada’s largest annual design festival, while curating numerous public programs and exhibitions both independently and for DesignTO. As a community leader and design expert, she has been interviewed by The Globe and Mail and Monocle Radio, and profiled in Azure Magazine. Alongside her curatorial work, Deborah practices architecture with award-winning firms.

BEAT is thrilled to host our first ever virtual National Mix! Comprised of special guests from six of BEA's national chapters, this will be an opportunity for BEA members to come together and engage in a series of meaningful and inspired conversations across Canada. The ultimate goals of the event are to further highlight regional BEA initiatives, provide informal mentorship, and cultivate a virtual platform for networking.

The evening will feature six panelists who will meet in the virtual "main room" for a brief event introduction and event overview. Following this, there will be a series of breakout rooms where panelists will be paired together with a smaller audience to discuss regional initiatives, professional trajectories and field questions from the audience. All guests and attendees will then meet back in the main room for concluding remarks and questions.

The BEAT // MIX NATIONAL Schedule:
6:30pm - Introduction + Meet & Greet with Panelists
6:45pm - Break Out Session #1
7:00pm - Break Out Session #2
7:15pm - Break Out Session #3
7:30pm - Concluding Remarks + Q/A

BEAT encourages interns, emerging practitioners and seasoned professional to join this interconnected community to share information, advice and opportunities.

Limited space available.

While this event is free to attend, a ticket for entry will be required. Tickets will be released at noon on Tuesday, May 25th 2021.

ABOUT THE PANELISTS:

Shallyn Murray, BEAA PEI
Architect , NINEYARDS

Shallyn was born and raised on PEI and graduated with a Masters in Architecture from Dalhousie University in 2012. Her background includes a Bachelor of Environmental Design from Dalhousie University and a diploma in Engineering from the University of Prince Edward Island. Shallyn opened Nine Yards Studio in 2017 with her partner Silva Stojak, a PEI based firm focusing on all things design with an emphasis on community involvement and collaboration. The firm received the RAIC Emerging Architectural Practice Award last year. Shallyn currently sits on the planning board for the City of Charlottetown, aiding in decision making for the future of Charlottetown and serves as the PEI Committee Chair for Building Equality in Architecture Atlantic (BEAA).

Anna Sampson, BEAA NS
Architect, IAH

Anna Sampson (She/Her/Hers) is a Senior Architect and Design Team Lead in the Building Design Group of the Nova Scotia Department of Infrastructure and Housing (IAH). Before joining IAH in 2019, Anna studied architecture at McGill University and worked in the Halifax office of Architecture49 for 10 years, where she was the Atlantic Practice Leader for Sports and Entertainment and focused on community recreation projects. Anna is currently the Executive Chair of the Atlantic Chapter of Building Equality in Architecture. She believes that Building Equality in Architecture can create positive change for the design of our buildings, towns and cities, and ultimately for the people of our communities.

Heather Dubbeldam, BEA Toronto
Architect, Dubbledam Architecture + Design

Heather is the principal of Dubbeldam Architecture + Design, a multi-disciplinary studio committed to advancing an architectural and social agenda through built work and design research. Dubbeldam’s portfolio includes a diverse range of commercial, institutional, hospitality, mixed-use and residential projects. Her practice has been recognized by over 60 awards for both design and practice, including the Canadian Professional Prix de Rome in Architecture, and her work has garnered wide recognition in national and international publications.

Heather has been recognized as a leading advocate for sustainable design and the betterment of our built environment. She is a LEED-accredited professional; the Director of Twenty + Change, a national organization dedicated to exposing the work of emerging Canadian architects; the Chair of the advisory board of BEAT (Building Equality in Architecture Toronto); past chair of the Toronto Society of Architects; and past director of the Design Industry Advisory Committee, amongst many other boards and volunteer organizations. Heather is a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (FRAIC) and the editor and co-author of several architecture publications.

Liz Wreford, BEA Prairies
Principal Landscape Architect, Public City

Liz Wreford is the Principal Landscape Architect of Public City, an architecture and landscape architecture firm based in Winnipeg with projects across Canada. She has been recognized internationally for her projects Hygge House, Crokicurl, PARK PARK, and Manitoboggan, which was awarded two International Olympic and Paralympic Committee Awards for Exemplary Design of Recreation Facilities and the CSLA 2020 National Award of Excellence. Currently, she is leading a team shortlisted for the LGBTQ2+ National Monument in Ottawa. She has taught landscape architecture and environmental design studios at the Universities of Toronto and Manitoba. Liz is on the Board of Directors for the Winnipeg Arts Council and is co-Executive Director of Storefront Manitoba. In 2018, Liz founded Building Equality in Architecture Prairies to advance excellence and diversity across city-building professions in central Canada.

Lindsay Andreas, BEA Calgary
Associate Architect, Sturgess Architecture

Lindsay was born and raised in Saskatchewan, where she completed a double honours degree in psychology and art before moving to Alberta to pursue architecture. An Associate Architect at Sturgess Architecture, her work focuses on creating meaningful public spaces that connect people and place. Prior to taking maternity leave, Lindsay was the design lead and project coordinator for the 5 billion dollar Green Line Light Rail Transit expansion for the City Centre Stations and the project manager for STEPS, a multifamily development designed to address the lack of community and variability in rental housing. Lindsay has been involved in many community initiatives and participates in the university accreditation process for the Canadian Architectural Certification Board. Her work on the Edmonton Valley Zoo was recognized by Canadian Architect with an award of excellence.

Ana Maria Llanos, BEA Vancouver
Principal, Diamond Schmitt Architects

Ana Maria Llanos leads the Vancouver studio of Diamond Schmitt and has over 20 years experience with the firm. Her work is focused on western Canada, including institutional, health care facilities, performing arts, residential, commercial, restoration and academic projects.

A commitment to design excellence is accompanied by rigorous project management skills and a proven track record of delivering complex projects on time and on budget. She is a well versed in a wide range of delivery methods and has completed projects using IPD, Stipulated Sum, CM and P3 models.

Ana Maria was Project Architect for the recently completed Emily Carr University of Art + Design, a landmark for the City of Vancouver and a state-of-the-art facility for 3,800 students, faculty and staff. As Executive Architects for the large Oakridge Redevelopment, she is leading Diamond Schmitt’s involvement to deliver residential towers, the Civic Centre and the interior design of the retail areas.
She is a graduate of UBC’s School of Architecture and is rooted in the west coast lifestyle of British Columbia.

In February of 2020, Ana Maria was recognized at the 21st annual Influential Women in Business Awards by Business In Vancouver, and is shortlisted for the YWCA Women of Inspiration Award to be announced in June 2021.

In the workplace today, it is important that we are known to others, and to ensure that others are aware of our resourcefulness. Networking can be one of the most powerful and productive activities an individual can do to launch and manage their career.

The upcoming BEAT MIX will take place on the evening of Thursday, January 14th via zoom.  Due to popular demand, the event will be specifically focused around issues architects face when they make the decision to have children. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions related to better understanding practices in place at offices to facilitate parental leaves, navigating the field once returning to work, and shedding light on the financial, social and cultural dynamics of raising children while managing a career. This BEAT MIX will serve to cultivate a valuable opportunity for those interested in understanding how to manage the balance between thriving at work and home, as well as network and meet colleagues in similar stages of their career.

BEAT MIX will include seven invited featured guests who are stationed in six breakout rooms. The featured guests will comprise of Partners and Principals from local design firms of various sizes, along with leaders in adjacent professions. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with the featured guests and meet a succession of individuals in small groups throughout the evening. Our panel of featured guests has been curated to share their unique experience navigating parenthood and practice.

BEAT encourages interns, emerging practitioners and seasoned professional to join this interconnected community to share information, advice and opportunities.

Limited space available.

While this event is free to attend, a ticket for entry will be required. Tickets will be released at noon on Monday, January 4th 2021.

ANDRE D’ELIA | Principal, superkül 

B.Arch, OAA, FRAIC

Andre D’Elia is the founder and co-principal of superkül, where he has led many of the firm’s projects in a wide variety of sectors: academic, retail, office, and both single-family and multi-unit residential. His affable leadership style and superb communication skills are matched by a strong aptitude for design and construction. Particular areas of expertise include sustainable design, construction detailing and sequencing with a focus on pre-fabricated construction, and the redevelopment of heritage and existing commercial, residential and institutional properties. Andre was the Principal in Charge of Steelcase WorkLife Toronto, Proper TV and Woodhouse, and is currently directing the studio’s numerous commercial and multi-unit residential projects such as Stratus Centre, Junction House, several apartment buildings for developer Oben Flats, and two buildings for the winning design competition for Hamilton’s Pier 8 master-planned waterfront development. 

Born in Toronto, Andre received his professional architecture degree from Carleton University (B.Arch, 1993), graduating with distinction. He interned in Italy before returning to KPMB Architects in Canada as a project architect on a number of award-winning buildings. Andre is a registered architect with the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA), a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (FRAIC), and a member of the Toronto Community Housing Design Review Panel. As a committed advocate of the architectural profession, Andre is generous with his time and expertise, serving as an OAA mentor and lecturing at a number of colleges, universities and conferences across Canada.

superkül is the Toronto-based architectural studio of principals Meg Graham and Andre D’Elia. Founded in 2002 upon an extensive body of professional experience acquired in Canada and abroad, superkül is recognized as a leading Canadian design practice. Its commitment to excellence, pragmatism and advanced building technologies has resulted in numerous architecture and design awards and recognition in several esteemed publications in local, national and international contexts.

The firm’s portfolio encompasses a wide array of project types, ranging from residential, commercial and institutional buildings to master planning and feasibility studies. While diverse, all of the projects undertaken evidence an immaculate attention to detail and material resolution—regardless of scale, and a profound connection to their built and natural contexts. The practice prioritizes a thorough engagement with all clients and stakeholders, and a belief in long-term sustainability guides the direction of the firm towards creating a brighter future.

Elaine Pantel | Partner, Shimmerman Penn LLP Chartered Professional Accountants

CPA, CGA

Elaine has over 30 years of experience in public accounting. She is a partner at Shimmerman Penn LLP, a mid-sized Toronto based CPA firm. Elaine provides business advisory and assurance services to clients in an array of industries in the areas of succession planning, estate planning, business transitions and financing, risk management, and operations benchmarking.

Elaine is responsible for the firm’s Marketing and Business Development programs and co-leads the firm’s industry specialty groups for Architecture, Engineering and Design (AED) and Investment Management Firms. Elaine is the firm’s expert for not-for-profit organizations. She has written widely and spoken regularly at industry seminars and workshops for these groups. Shimmerman Penn is a long-time supporter of the Toronto design community and has presented at and sponsored events and conferences for the OAA, IIDEX, SDA Canada and OALA.

Shimmerman Penn LLP is a mid-sized Toronto based firm of CPA’s and business advisors with a 35-year history serving SME clients in a wide range of industries, with a strong focus on business advisory services and tax planning strategies. Please learn more about us at www.spllp.com. The firm’s offices have been located in the Yonge and St. Clair area for the past 20 years.

Shimmerman Penn LLP is a Toronto member firm of PrimeGlobal, one of the top five largest associations of independent accounting firms in the world. Elaine is the Chair of the North American Board of Directors of PrimeGlobal, and also serves as a member of the World Board of Directors, which is focused on supporting the regions, governance, strategy, communications, member interaction and business development for the association. Over the years, Elaine has represented the firm at many PrimeGlobal conferences.

Elaine is a member of the Verity Women’s Club in Toronto.

Elsa Lam | Editor, Canadian Architect Magazine

B.E.S., M.Arch II, Ph.D.

Elsa Lam is editor-in-chief of Canadian Architect magazine.  She was the 2012 winner of the Phyllis Lambert Prize for writing in architecture, awarded for her doctoral dissertation “Wilderness Nation: Building Canada’s Railway Landscapes, 1885-1929,” completed at Columbia University in the City of New York under the supervision of Kenneth Frampton and Vittoria di Palma. The dissertation explores the role of Canada's railway hotels, western national parks and other railway-sponsored buildings and landscapes in forging a sense of national identity.

Elsa studied architectural history at McGill University and architectural design at the University of Waterloo. She has written extensively for architecture magazines, as well as collaborating on the editing and writing of several books on design history. Previous to her role at Canadian Architect, she worked with the Canadian Centre for Architecture in Montreal. She is co-editor of the forthcoming book Canadian Modern Architecture, 1967-2017, to be co-published by Princeton Architectural Press and Canadian Architect in Fall 2019.

Canadian Architect is a magazine for architects and related professionals practicing in Canada. Canada’s only monthly design publication, Canadian Architect has been in continuous publication since 1955. This national review of design and practice documents significant architecture and design from across the country and features articles on current practice, building technology, and social issues affecting architecture. We are the journal of record of the RAIC.

Canadian Architect has been honoured with numerous awards and nominations in the Canadian Business Press annual Kenneth R. Wilson Awards and has also been recognized in Canada’s National Magazine Awards.

For over 40 years, Canadian Architect has sponsored an annual national awards program, the only national awards that recognize projects in the design stage. Each year, submissions are due in late September, judging takes place in early October and the winning schemes are published in a special issue every December. Look for entry information in the July and August issues and on our website.

James Mallinson | Architect, Perkins&Will

B.Arch, OAA, LEED® AP, Certified Passive House Designer

Drawn to the expressiveness and exactitude of architectural drawing, James knew he wanted to be an architect from an early age. His post-secondary studies fostered interest in the historical forces underlying architecture, the felt experiences and narratives that knit together architectural space, how architectural design transforms our place in ecosystems, and the technical puzzle-solving of construction. A skilled designer today, James is valued by clients for his thoughtful and considered solutions to design challenges. He is sensitive to the complexity of client needs, is familiar with navigating complicated approvals processes, and is a conscientious developer of construction documents.

For James, satisfaction exists in cultivating trusted client relationships that yield views into a diverse group of socially enlightened organizations. Earning the trust of people who value creative education, mental health, and responding to the climate crisis is rewarding and gives meaning to the many organizational and technical challenges of projects he’s created.

Perkins and Will is an award-winning, interdisciplinary, and research-based architecture and design practice with Canadian studios in Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver that believes in the power of design to transform lives and enhance communities. Our team of architects, urban designers, planners, interior designers, and sustainability specialists collaborate with clients all over the world to create healthy, sustainable places in which to live, learn, work, play, heal, move, and explore. Clients consistently turn to our teams for leadership and expertise in sustainability, resilience, health and wellness, and mobility. Additionally, our research labs (research.perkinswill.com) catalyze innovative design technologies and solutions that result in better, smarter, and more competitive built environments.

Jessica Shifman | Senior Associate, Diamond Schmitt

B.Arch, OAA

Jessie received her Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Toronto in 2001, and has spent her career working on culturally and societally significant projects. She has contributed to the award-winning Lazaridis Hall at Wilfred Laurier University, Holy Blossom Temple, Michael Garron Hospital, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra Hall, the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, and the TTC Museum Station Revitalization. She is a dedicated project leader who manages complex projects with attention to detail, and concern for her clients. Jessie sits on the Diamond Schmitt Recruitment and Staffing committees and has leads an office initiative to establish improved Work Life Balance for all staff.

Diamond Schmitt Architects is a leading Canadian architecture practice based in Toronto with studios in Vancouver and New York. Recognized for design excellence across a broad range of building types, our 300-person team is committed to socially responsible, sustainable design and thrives in a workplace that respects difference, values nature, promotes health and safety, and strives for compassion.

Kathleen Kurtin | Architect, OAA President

OAA, FRAIC

Kathleen Kurtin registered with the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) in the early 1980s, launching her independent practice, Kathleen Kurtin Architect. Over the next decade, the firm distinguished itself as a mid-sized architectural practice specializing in renovation within Toronto’s downtown core. With projects ranging from very small to upward of 500,000 square feet, her work included various building and client types, including retail, industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential. The firm had a reputation for innovative and cost-effective solutions, and provided the foundation for the City of Toronto’s Live/Work guidelines.

In the mid-1990s, Kurtin joined Scotiabank as its Chief Architect and Director of Design, leading a group of in-house and external architects and designers in the design and development of the bank’s real estate portfolio, both domestic and international. On retiring from Scotiabank in 2014, she re-established her independent practice.

Having participated on the Toronto Society of Architects (TSA) executive in the 1990s, Kurtin went on to become a member of OAA Council in 2013, and has taken on increasing responsibilities ever since. A self-regulating organization, the OAA is dedicated to promoting and increasing the knowledge, skill, and proficiency of its members, and administering the Architects Act in order that the public interest may be served and protected.

Kurtin first became president in January 2019 and helped Council set three priorities for the year—expand the scope of education to be comprehensive, embracing the possibilities presented by the evolving nature of architecture for both the public and the profession, celebrate and promote inclusivity and equity throughout the profession, and engage the membership. She began a second one-year term in 2020, with previous roles including Senior Vice President and Treasurer as well as VP Regulatory and VP Practice. Kurtin has chaired the OAA’s Audit, Practice, and Interns Committees as well as its Policy Advocacy Coordination Team (PACT) and Sustainable Built Environment Committee (SBEC). She was instrumental in establishing the Safe Work Places Committee, which has sought ways to make the practice of architecture for women more equitable.

Omar Gandhi | Principal, Omar Gandhi Architect

BA, BEDS, March, NSAA, OAA, RAIC

Omar Gandhi is the Principal of Omar Gandhi Architect, a practice founded in 2010 with small teams in both Halifax and Toronto. The work of its two studios has garnered much National and International attention in the young practice’s short history. 

After studying in the inaugural Architectural Studies Program at the University of Toronto, Omar moved to Halifax, Nova Scotia where he received his Master’s degree at Dalhousie University. After graduation, Omar worked for Kuwabara Payne McKenna Blumberg Architects, Young + Wright Architects, and finally MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects upon his return to Halifax. In Omar Gandhi Architect’s early years, Omar was awarded the Canada Council for the Arts Professional Prix de Rome, was included in Wallpaper* Magazine’s Architects Directory, and was named as one of Monocle Magazine’s ‘Most Influential Canadians’. Omar was chosen as one of the Architectural League of New York’s ‘Emerging Voices’ of 2016 and was appointed as the Louis I. Kahn visiting Assistant Professor in Architectural Design at the Yale School of Architecture for the Fall semester of the 2018-19 academic year.

More recently, Omar Gandhi Architect was the recipient of a 2018 Governor General’s Medal in Architecture for its work on Rabbit Snare Gorge, and in early 2020, the subject of a full studio feature in The New York Times. 

In the workplace today, it is important that we are known to others, and to ensure that others are aware of our resourcefulness. Networking can be one of the most powerful and productive activities an individual can do to launch and manage their career. BEAT MIX at the Steelcase WorkLife Centre will be a platform to develop a series of relationships across Toronto’s Architecture and Design communities.

BEAT MIX will include five invited Featured Guests who are stationed in five specific Zones. The Featured Guests will comprise of Partners and Principals from local design firms of various sizes, along with leaders in adjacent professions. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with the Featured Guests and meet a succession of individuals in small groups throughout the evening.

BEAT encourages Interns, emerging practitioners and seasoned professional to join this interconnected community to share information, advice and opportunities.

Beverages and light refreshments will be provided. All guests are required to be 19 years of age or older. Limited space available.

ANA-FRANCISCA DE LA MORA, OAA ARQ. MRAIC, LEED AP BD+C

Associate Director - Practice Lead, Architecture | IBI GROUP

As an Associate Director, Practice Lead of Architecture at IBI Group, Ana-Francisca has built an extensive portfolio focused on Transit projects and Transit Oriented Development (TOD) in Canada, Mexico and the Middle East. She has been responsible for the successful design and execution of transit facilities that include subway, LRT, BRT, buses and ancillary facilities. Her work is characterized by its innovative, high quality architectural design with a deep commitment to making healthy places that are accessible and inclusive. Her experience spans all project phases from Conceptual to Construction documents and various forms of project delivery.  She has a deep understanding on best practices for transit and the application of transit agencies’ and industry standards on to the architectural design. Ana-Francisca is currently leading the design of the London, Ontario BRT, the preliminary design of the Richmond Hill Terminal of the Yonge Subway extension in Toronto and the design and construction of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT’s Keelesdale Station and the Easier Access of Summerhill Station. She currently serves as an Executive Member of the Toronto Society of Architects.

IBI Group Inc. is a globally integrated architecture, planning, engineering, and technology firm with over 2,600 professionals around the world. For more than 40 years, its dedicated professionals have helped clients create livable, sustainable, and advanced urban environments. IBI Group believes that cities must be designed with intelligent systems, sustainable buildings, efficient infrastructure, and a human touch.

From high-rises to industrial buildings, schools to state-of-the-art hospitals, transit stations to highways, airports to toll systems, bike lanes to parks, we design every aspect of truly integrated cities. Our collaborative approach focuses on future-forward solutions. We’re bridging the gap between design and technology, unlocking new potential in data-driven environments.

ANDREW MUFFITT, BES, B.Arch, OAA, LEED AP

Partner | Kohn Partnership Architects Inc.

As a Partner at Kohn Partnership Architects Inc., Andrew Muffitt has taken the lead on many of the firm’s most successful projects. Known for his technical approach, Andrew’s continual pursuit of exceptional project delivery has set a clear example for staff within the practice and gained the respect of clients, consultants, and municipal officials. He plays an active role in overseeing the drawing production and has a great deal of experience navigating many aspects of building constructability. Andrew is an exceptionally engaged Partner with a strong focus on mentorship and leadership. He has fostered great connections with clients and takes pride in leading them towards success. Andrew holds a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Environmental Studies from University of Waterloo. He is a member of OAA and is a LEED AP.

Kohn Partnership Architects Inc. is an architectural firm with a wide range of experience in both residential and commercial projects. We are dedicated to the delivery of projects to our clients that reflect a high quality of design, bringing aesthetic appeal, technical innovation and sustainable principles to each project. Experienced in working with numerous developers and private sector clients, Kohn has developed a reputation for being “intelligently creative”– delivering projects of exceptional value.

ANYA MORYOUSSEF, BES M.Arch OAA MRAIC

Director | AM_A

A registered architect with over 15 years of experience, Anya has a broad portfolio of published and award-winning designs.

Anya founded her practice in 2014. Prior to that, she was the first named Associate at superkül, one of Canada’s leading design practices, where she was project architect on several internationally recognized and award-winning projects, including Steelcase Worklife and Compass House. Anya also spent several formative years at Sarah Wigglesworth Architects (London, UK), where she was a key member of the design team for the RIBA award-winning Sandal Magna Primary School.

Anya’s work is driven by a strong interest in the reinvention of typology and the poetics of space. This approach, enacted in earlier lighting and installation projects, was crystallized in her Master of Architecture thesis, which earned her the prestigious Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Medal. These interests have also been explored in many projects since, whether it’s working through texture and material, light and reflection, or in related fields such as literary fiction (with the publication of two short stories on architecture by non-architects) or archival research.

Since 2014, Anya has been on faculty at the University of Waterloo School of Architecture, her alma mater, and previously taught design studio (with Sarah Wigglesworth) at the Bergen School of Architecture in Norway. She is a regular guest critic at the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture and Design at the University of Toronto and the Ryerson School of Interior Design, and is a mentor to OAA Intern Architects.

CAROL PHILLIPS, B.E.S., B.Arch., OAA (BCDS), AAA, AIBC, NSAA, FRAIC, LEED AP, SCUP

Partner | Moriyama & Teshima Architects

Carol is a Partner at Moriyama & Teshima Architects, having led some of the firm’s most valued civic, cultural and educational buildings. A Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, Carol’s passionate drive for powerful and graceful architectural solutions has been honed over a span of 20 years working in Canada and abroad. Known for her ability to transform and serve diverse communities with grace, Carol’s designs accommodate inclusivity and intercultural understanding — underlying principles that inform all of her projects. Carol’s projects reinforce principles of generous, regenerative and inspiring spaces that not only serve their communities, but also address their historical and urban contexts. Her projects include the U of T Multi-Faith Centre, Goldring Student Centre, and UTM Innovation Complex. Most recently, Carol completed the Ryerson Centre for Urban Innovation and UBCO Teaching and Learning Centre in Kelowna, BC. Currently, she is working alongside Acton Ostry Architects on the landmark, mass timber ‘The Arbour,’ George Brown Tall Wood Building, which will feature Net Zero, low carbon building solutions and be the first of its kind in Ontario.

Moriyama & Teshima Architects (MTA) is a team of architects, planners and designers collaborating with visionary clients to build inspiring and enduring spaces that transform communities and reinforce civic identity. The firm believes that context underlies the spirit of every project, and has delivered high-quality, sustainable and award-winning design services for 60 years. MTA’s extensive portfolio of national and international projects has received over 200 awards and includes museums and art galleries, post-secondary buildings, schools, corporate and government headquarters, recreational facilities, libraries, restoration projects, renovation projects, and urban/campus planning.

MTA’s collaborative studio is made up of individuals who reflect the cultural diversity that defines our country: a combination of industry leaders and young designers working together to design and deliver exceptional projects. MTA’s projects express a deep respect for natural, urban and social conditions, meeting the needs and aspirations of the individuals and institutions they serve. Whether designing buildings that delight the human spirit, developing urban strategies that generate active healthy cities, or supporting clients’ objectives with sound problem-solving business sense, MTA strives to maintain a sense of delight and curiosity in our built surroundings.

NAOMI KRISS, BA MA

Principal | Kriss Communications

Naomi Kriss is a passionate authority on public relations for the architecture and design industries. She founded Kriss Communications in 2006 with the aim to broaden awareness of quality contemporary design in Canada and expand recognition of work by Canadian designers abroad.

Representing architects, interior designers, schools of architecture, design hotels and restaurants, as well as noteworthy cultural projects and institutions coast to coast, Naomi helps her clients to understand what makes them unique from their often similarly perceived competitors, to find ways to present their stories beyond a press release, and to become regular participants in a global dialogue about innovative design.

Raised in Toronto, Paris, London, Oxford and Jerusalem, Naomi presents a broad vision and an international perspective. For over 20 years she has applied strategic thinking and creativity to help architectural practices transform their communications and drive new business.

Naomi graduated with a bachelor’s degree in the history of art from the Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London and a master’s degree in post-war and contemporary art from Sotheby’s Institute, University of Manchester.

Tickets are $20 and will be available through the above link as of September 11th at noon.  All guests are required to be 19 years of age or older.  Limited space available.

In the workplace today, it is important that we are known to others, and to ensure that others are aware of our resourcefulness. Networking can be one of the most powerful and productive activities an individual can do to launch and manage their career. BEAT MIX at the Interface Showroom will be a platform to develop a series of relationships across Toronto’s Architecture and Design communities.

BEAT MIX will include five invited Featured Guests who are stationed in five specific Zones. The Featured Guests will comprise of Partners and Principals from local design firms of various sizes, along with leaders in adjacent professions. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with the Featured Guests and meet a succession of individuals in small groups throughout the evening.

BEAT encourages Interns, emerging practitioners and seasoned professional to join this interconnected community to share information, advice and opportunities.

Beverages and light refreshments provided curtesy of the Food Dudes. All guests are required to be 19 years of age or older. Limited space available.

Brenda Webster Tweel, Hons.BA, BEDS, M.Arch, MRAIC

Urban Places | Stantec

Brenda Webster Tweel holds a Master of Architecture (1988) and Bachelor of Environmental Design (1985) from the Technical University of Nova Scotia where she received the RAIC Student Medal. Prior to her education in Architecture, Brenda completed a BA Honours from Trinity College at the University of Toronto in Political Science and Economics.  She currently serves as a member of the Trinity College Building Project Steering Committee and the Architect Selection Advisory Committee as well as a member of the Board of the First Free Schoolhouse located in Corktown.

A champion for urban renewal with solid international experience, Brenda partners closely with infrastructure, financial, and government teams. She integrates technical foundations in Landscape Architecture, Architecture and Urban Design to build resilient solutions. With over 20 years’ experience in leading urban designs and master plans in Toronto, London and Berlin, Brenda has an exceptionally strong record for designing large, complex, multi-stakeholder projects.

She has nurtured an extensive network of design advocates in business, government, and academia and is an inspirational speaker. Before joining Urban Places in 2017 she spent close to a decade on urban revitalization at Waterfront Toronto.  Having previously worked as a Professor of Architecture, she continues to find time to join reviews at both McGill and the Daniels School. She has had great success with taking a studio approach to public engagement.  She gains understanding of community needs through iterative observations and conversations, tests the ideas through collaboration and delivers solutions that are embedded in the community governance.

Gloria Apostolou, BES, B.Arch, OAA, LEED AP

Principal | post architecture

Gloria Apostolou graduated from the University of Waterloo in 1997 with a Bachelor of Architecture Degree and a Bachelor of Environmental Studies Degree. She has interned in offices in Greece, Italy and Finland, before returning to Toronto where she worked with Baldwin & Franklin Architects for 10 years and eventually started her own practice. She is a licensed Architect with the Ontario Association of Architects and an accredited LEED Professional.

Post Architecture is a boutique architecture firm, based in Toronto, specializing in contemporary custom home design and residential transformations. They are known and respected for sensitive integration of new, modern design in traditional contexts, applying innovation to create spaces for an exceptional lifestyle.

They believe the spaces we inhabit, and also our lives, are blurring the distinction between our working, social, and private selves—and design naturally needs to respond to this. Residential clients are asking for the inclusion of home offices, restaurant-like kitchens, boutique hotel bedrooms, and spa bathrooms in their homes; their designs deftly cross disciplines and borrow from the research and development available in the commercial and retail sectors, for new solutions in lighting, fixtures, furnishings, and construction materials, to support the new living environments.  

Kathryn Seymour, Hons.BA, M.Phil, LL.B., M.Arch

Director of Marketing | PCL

Kathryn is currently the Director of Marketing, Canadian Buildings with PCL Constructors Canada Inc.  Prior to joining PCL in 2013, Kathryn was a Principal with Moriyama + Teshima architects where she worked for ten years managing business development, marketing and proposals.  Prior to her career in architecture and marketing, Kathryn was a lawyer initially practicing land use planning and municipal law with Smith Lyons and subsequently as Discipline Counsel with the Law Society of Upper Canada.  Kathryn received an honours Co-op degree in Recreation and Sociology from the University of Waterloo; an M.Phil. in International Relations from the University of Cambridge; her LL.B. from Osgoode Hall Law School; and her M.Arch from the University of Toronto.  Passionate about the environment, Kathryn is currently a member of the Board of Directors of Environmental Defence. When not chained to her desk, Kathryn reminisces about her youthful adventures bicycling solo across Canada, trekking to Everest Base Camp, and defeating Oxford at the British Henley as a member of the Cambridge University varsity squad.

Jayne Aspell, MRICS, MSc

Project Manager | PCL

As a highly skilled project manager at PCL Constructor Canada Inc. (Toronto), Jayne has over 16 years of professional experience in the construction industry. Jayne received an honours Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science from Salford University in the UK. She is also a professional member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors. 

She started her career as an apprentice quantity surveyor studying while working full-time. Through her experience, she worked in the field and was promoted to her current role of project manager. She has extensive experience working with clients and design teams to work through design solutions and meet budgeting and functionality requirements.

Jayne recently completed the $43M Billy Bishop Airport Revitalization project that involved both the renovation and addition to the existing terminal building at Billy Bishop Airport, while maintaining full operations.

When not at work, you can find Jayne with her two dogs or at a yoga studio. As an avid advocate for elevating women into leadership roles, Jayne is on the advisory committee of The Petra Initiative that tackles the external and integral challenge women face pursuing leadership. She is also the co-chair of PCL Toronto’s new Diversity and Inclusion Team.

Leslie Jen, BA (Adv), JD, B.Arch, FRAIC

Design Journalist | Marketing Director | superkül

Leslie holds degrees in English Literature and Law from the University of Saskatchewan, and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of British Columbia. For nearly 12 years, she was the Associate Editor of Canadian Architect magazine, during which time she contributed significantly to the discourse of architecture and urbanism in Canada.

In her present role as Marketing Director at Toronto-based architecture firm superkül, Leslie works to develop the distinctive brand of the studio through focused research, strategic communication initiatives and promotional opportunities. She is concurrently authoring a book on Canadian architectural practices and their work that is scheduled for release by Figure 1 Publishing.

Additionally, Leslie maintains a consultancy practice, undertaking writing, editing and curatorial projects for several design magazines, award-winning architectural firms and arts organizations. She has been an invited jury member for exhibitions and awards programs, and her commitment to and advocacy for architecture and design manifests in her active role on the Board of Directors of the DesignTO Festival. Leslie was named a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (FRAIC) in 2016. 

Shannon Hilchie, P.Eng

Owner and Principal | fæt lab

Shannon studied Structural Engineering at Dalhousie University, before becoming an associate at Blackwell Engineering. At Blackwell, she was privileged to work on some fantastic projects, such as Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport and NFCS Headquarters (including the longhouse). After many wonderful years at Blackwell, she decided to try something new, and worked with cast steel at Cast Connex. It was fun and she loved traveling North America, dealing with some of the top Architecture and Engineering firms in the world, but she missed designing. In 2014 she decided to start her own firm, faet lab. This allowed her to focus on feature elements and component design. Shannon also teaches the Structures curriculum in the Masters and Undergraduate programs at Daniels School of Architecture and Landscape design, University of Toronto.

When she is not having babies, she is also completing her Masters of Tensile Membrane Structures at the Anhault University of Applied Science, at the site of Bauhaus in Germany. Where there is also lots of beer.

Tickets are available through above link as of March 21st at noon.  All guests are required to be 19 years of age or older.  Limited space available.

In the workplace today, it is important that we are known to others, and to ensure that others are aware of our resourcefulness. Networking can be one of the most powerful and productive activities an individual can do to launch and manage their career. BEAT MIX at the Herman Miller Showroom will be a platform to develop a series of relationships across Toronto’s Architecture and Design communities.

BEAT MIX will include five invited Featured Guests who are stationed in five specific Zones. The Featured Guests will comprise of Partners and Principals from local design firms of various sizes, along with leaders in adjacent professions. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with the Featured Guests and meet a succession of individuals in small groups throughout the evening.

BEAT encourages Interns, emerging practitioners and seasoned professional to join this interconnected community to share information, advice and opportunities.

Beverages and light refreshments provided curtesy of the Food Dudes. All guests are required to be 19 years of age or older. Limited space available.

SPEAKERS