Looking back on 2023, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our outstanding staff, partners, and all team members for their unwavering dedication and hard work throughout the year. It was a dynamic year, offering us the opportunity to reflect on our progress and align our branding accordingly. As we eagerly anticipate 2024, inspired by our collective achievements, we’re poised to pursue even greater successes together.
Our highlights from 2023:
Awards and Appointments
Gold Winner: Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex
We received an Urban Design & Architecture Design Award for Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex (WMRC) located in Waterloo, Ontario. We are proud of our accomplishment and are grateful to our talented team for this great achievement.
Gold Winner: Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex
Global Future Design Awards 2023 announced a Gold Award in the Recreation (Built) category for the outstanding Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex (WMRC).
York Regional Police #1 District HQ Achieves LEED Silver Certification
York Region Police #1 District HQ officially achieved LEED Silver Certification! This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication of the entire project team.
Publications, Conferences and Speaking Engagements
Parkin Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Speaker Series
Parkin hosted its first event in our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) speaker series in March. Throughout our conversation, the following topics were of value and generated in-depth discussion with our panel and staff: Mentorship, Work-life balance, Communication and relationship-building, LGBTQIA2S+.
Optimizing Healing Environments for the Vulnerable and Underserved
The CCHF has planned an agenda that shares recent transformations in innovating healing environments across several health environments, including LTC, complex care children/adults, and hospitals. Parkin was pleased to have Director, Cameron Shantz, Principal, Shane Cyzphya, and Senior Interior Designer, Mary Chernoff participate as speakers at this year’s conference.
Designing for Dignity in Canada’s Most Remote Communities
For the first time, the OAA held its annual conference at the gateway to Northern Ontario. The setting prompted new opportunities for conversations and collaboration with local communities about the role architects play in supporting dignity. At the conference, on June 21, Parkin Associate, Justin Leclair, participated in a panel discussion addressing learning objectives, and shared his extensive experience in supporting the Inuit in unique arctic environments.
Manchester School of Architecture Alumni Event
Parkin Director, Robin Snell participated in the Manchester Metropolitan University’s Manchester School of Architecture International Alumni Event at the end of March 2023. The focus of the event was to connect current School of Architecture students with alumni for career advice and guidance, with a particular emphasis on working overseas.
This session was dedicated to the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in architecture. Parkin Associate, Shannon Wright, dove into the possibilities and implications of AI in the realm of design. This important topic has been generating global discussions around the opportunities AI brings, as well as considerations regarding morality, job security, and government accountability.
During this engaging session, our staff explored the barriers experienced by equity-seeking groups and discussed the profound impacts they have on individuals and communities. Through open and meaningful discussions, we fostered an ongoing dialogue that encouraged understanding, empathy, and a commitment to actionable change.
Parkin Participates in the 6th Annual Forum on Healthcare Infrastructure, Western Canada
Parkin was pleased to announce the participation of Director Cameron Shantz as a co-presenter at the highly anticipated 6th Annual Forum on Healthcare Infrastructure, Western Canada. During the forum, Cameron Shantz shared insights and expertise in a session titled “Twelve Months Later: Progress Report on the Cowichan Hospital Project and Key Takeaways from the Competitive Alliance Model.”
Parkin Projects Featured: Archello
We were excited to announce that both Parkwood Institute Mental Health Care building, (designed by Parkin Architects in joint venture with aTRR), and Providence Care Hospital, (designed by Parkin Architects and Adamson Associates), were featured on Archello’s homepage and Facebook pages.
Nunatsiaq News- Parkin’s Arctic School Projects in the Spotlight!
Parkin’s artic school projects were featured in the latest installment of a captivating series by Nunatsiaq News, exploring Nunavut’s school infrastructure and its impact on education delivery. In an exclusive interview, Parkin Associate Justin Leclair shared his insights on designing functional, versatile school spaces for Nunavut’s communities.
OAA’s One-Day Virtual Conference
Justin Leclair, Parkin Associate, presented at the OAA’s summer conference. Topic: “Designing for Dignity in Canada’s Most Remote Communities”.
Parkin Experts Speak at ICPA Conference
On October 23, 2023, in the vibrant city of Antwerp, Belgium, Parkin’s accomplished corrections experts took center stage at the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA) Conference. The captivating presentation revolved around the intriguing concept of “normalization” within correctional facility design. The Parkin team leading this enlightening conversation included Director Emeritus, Robert Boraks, and Senior Associate, Roberta Somlo.
Discover the Power of Space and Art at “Art for the Soul”
On November 2nd, Parkin Principal, Claire O’Donnell, joined a dynamic panel discussion at MAiDHouse’s event, “Art for the Soul.” The event’s centerpiece delved into the profound role that space and art play in the end-of-life experience.
Parkin Impacts Justice Innovations
On November 15 to 17, 2023, the AIA AAJ Conference in Washington, D.C. was a platform for architects, engineers, practitioners, researchers, and policymakers to delve into the transforming realm of research-based interventions, sentencing alternatives, and architectural responses within the traditional correctional context. Parkin Principal, Richard Huot, and Senior Associate, Roberta Somlo shared their invaluable expertise in “Shifting the Paradigm.”
Parkin Team Attends The Healthcare Design Conference + Expo
Parkin’s senior team embarked on an exhilarating journey at the Healthcare Design Conference + Expo in vibrant New Orleans from November 4 to November 7, 2023!
Our experts dove into the realm of architecture, featuring riveting discussions on how design, planning, architecture, and interior design positively impacts healthcare.
Carleton University Azrieli School of Architecture
‘Architectures of Care’ explored the intersection of health, welfare, and the built environment, envisioning architectural solutions for an aging society. As part of this innovative program, the recent Mid-Term review crits took place on November 10, 2023, at the Azrieli School of Architecture. Parkin’s Kim Kennedy, Loretta Dabay, and Greg Pattison were honored to contribute as guest panel reviewers.
Innovating Health Environments
Parkin Director, Robin Snell, and Senior Associate, Rebecca MacDonald, presented at the Canadian Centre for Healthcare Facilities’ Innovating Health Environments on November 28 and 29, 2023, at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute in Toronto.
Parkin’s Accessibility Advisor
Parkin’s Accessibility Advisor, Anika Abdullah, recently showcased her expertise as a panelist at the City of Toronto’s event in honor of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Her valuable contributions sparked discussions on fostering a more accessible and inclusive future.
Project Updates
Preferred Proponent: South Niagara Hospital Project
EllisDon Infrastructure Healthcare (EDIH) was selected as the preferred proponent to design, build, finance, and maintain the new South Niagara Hospital project. Parkin is pleased to be part of the successful design team collaborating with EDIH.
Canada’s First WELL® Certified Hospital
Parkin (in joint venture with Adamson Associates) is excited to be leading the design team for Canada’s first WELL® Certified hospital. EllisDon Infrastructure Healthcare (EDIH) was selected as the preferred proponent to design, build, finance, and maintain the new South Niagara Hospital.
Trillium Health Partners Broader Redevelopment, Peter Gilgan Mississauga Hospital: Development Phase
Parkin is excited to be part of the design team for the Trillium Health Partners (THP) Broader Redevelopment, Peter Gilgan Mississauga Hospital project. ED+PCL Healthcare Partners is the Development Partner selected to further develop the project requirements, including design, schedule, pricing, and risk parameters.
Phase 2 construction for Grandview Kids is underway at 1461 Harwood Avenue North, in Ajax. With crane installation in March 2023, the project is well under way towards its targeted completion in fall 2024. The next stage will focus on further developing the designs to show all architectural, engineering, and landscape information.
Construction Progress for Ecole Des Trois- Soleils Despite with Record Cold Temperatures in Nunavut
The construction of the Ecole Des Trois-Soleils in Iqaluit, Nunavut, resumed in March. It is a testament to the ability of construction and design teams to overcome adverse weather conditions to deliver exceptional projects. The project will be an important addition to the community, providing high-quality education facilities for students in the region.
Cowichan District Hospital Replacement
The replacement of BC’s Cowichan District Hospital is under way, featuring the development of a modern, state-of-the-art hospital on a green-field site. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Island Health and ZGF Architects on this incredible project!
Ecole Des Trois-Soleils in Iqaluit: Project Update
Exciting developments are underway at École Des Trois-Soleils (ETS) in Iqaluit as the project nears completion for the upcoming school year. The Commission scolaire francophone du Nunavut (CFSN) is proud to support a complete K-12 program within the existing school, with expansion plans in place.
Progress Update: Sakku School Addition and Renovations in Coral Harbour
The construction contract for the Sakku School addition and renovation project was awarded to Arctic Fresh Projects and Penn-Co Construction this Spring. With the official opening of the shipping season.
Parkin gathered its Trillium Redevelopment team to commemorate a significant milestone achieved for the expansive Trillium Redevelopment Project. This achievement marked the completion of major milestones.
Exciting Update: Taloyoak High School and Daycare Project!
We announced the award of the construction contract for the Taloyoak High School and Daycare, it was awarded to Pilitak Enterprises Ltd. This remarkable project marked the fifth educational collaboration between Parkin Architects, Accutech Engineering Inc., and Pilitak Enterprises Ltd.
Parkin Announcement for the New Surrey Hospital and BC Cancer Centre Project AWARD
Parkin announced a significant milestone in healthcare infrastructure with the awarding of the new Surrey hospital and BC Cancer Centre project (in joint venture with ZGF). This project is set to bring state-of-the-art healthcare facilities to the vibrant city of Surrey in British Columbia’s lower mainland.
We announced that the Western Memorial Regional Hospital (WMRH) reached a substantial completion milestone. Western Memorial Regional Hospital, a vital regional healthcare center, is set to become a civic landmark in Western Newfoundland.
Durham Regional Police Services- Phase 2: Under Construction
Construction for the highly anticipated $83 million Durham Regional Police Services – Phase 2 project is currently in full swing. The project is set to increase the original 26-acre Durham Regional Police Services site to 36-acres.
Bayers Lake Community Outpatient Centre in Halifax is Now Open
Our team was thrilled to be part of the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating the official opening of the new outpatient center we designed in the vibrant Bayers Lake area of Halifax, N.S. This center is set to become a pivotal healthcare hub, boasting dozens of dialysis stations and a multitude of clinical spaces, as outlined by the province.
Blogs Posts and Articles
Just in case you haven’t read our 2023 blogs, here are our posts from the past year:
A Sustainable Approach: Organic Design Principles in Healthcare Architecture
A Sustainable Approach: Selecting Materials for Healthy Environments
EmPATH Unit Design: Re- Imagining Behavioural Emergency Environments
Designing Children’s and Women’s Healthcare Facilities in Canada
Universal Design Unleashed: Redefining Inclusion in Architecture
Parkin Evidence- Based Design (EBD) Research Guide 2023
Revitalizing Our Identity: Unveiling the New Parkin Brand
Indigenous Design: Bridging Cultures and Spaces
Children’s Treatment Centres (CTCs): Navigating Past and Designing Future Trends
Designing Year- Round Accessibility— A Four Seasons Approach to Creating Accessible Outdoor Spaces