For our communities to thrive, meaningful and necessary changes are needed to the way we create architecture in Canada, confirmed by a three-year, national consultation and independent research.
A report issued this month by Rise for Architecture and the Regulatory Organization of Architecture in Canada shares a comprehensive review of the current practice of architecture in Canada, with recommended actions for adoption across the profession. The research includes a national poll by the Angus Reid Institute, a public survey, roundtables with the architectural profession, an architectural student forum, and independent research on the effectiveness of architecture policies in Europe.
The report highlights several key findings, including the need for greater diversity and inclusivity in the architecture profession, the importance of sustainable design practices, and the role of architecture in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. It also offers several recommendations for the future, including the need to strengthen the relationship between architects and the public, the importance of mentorship and professional development for young architects, and the need for greater collaboration between architects and other stakeholders in the built environment. A key finding was the need for and value of an architecture policy for Canada, which would be developed by various government sectors with the support of the design, planning, and construction industries.
“Architecture has a vital role to play in shaping the future of our cities and communities,” says Darryl Condon, Chair of the Rise for Architecture Committee. “This report on the future of architecture in Canada provides a roadmap for how people in the profession can work together to create more sustainable, equitable, and inclusive environments for all Canadians.”
“Students, architects, and Canadians shared valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Canada’s architectural profession. They called for deep change, which we’ve summarized into a set of immediate actions we hope to see adopted,” says Professor Lisa Landrum, a member of the Rise for Architecture committee.
Canadians are facing unprecedented challenges; the report’s findings and recommendations provide a roadmap for more responsive and resilient community design. It defines immediate actions for architects, educators, policymakers, and design professionals to work together in support of our communities and future generations.
About Rise for Architecture
Rise for Architecture is a national, volunteer-led committee of architects, educators, advocates and organizations that regulate the architectural profession in Canada. Since 2016, they have been hosting conversations to learn what Canadians want and need in their communities. Their findings include a series of recommendations to improve the processes and policies that shape how Canada’s communities are built. The end goal? To empower the building sectors, educators, and governments to create inclusive, sustainable and inspiring communities for all Canadians.
About the Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada
Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada (ROAC) represents the eleven provincial and territorial regulators of the profession of architecture in Canada. These regulatory bodies are responsible for setting the standards for entry into the profession and for issuing registration/licenses to those who meet established standards of qualifications and practice. These regulators individually regulate the practice of architecture so that the public interest is protected within their respective province or territory.