About us

HCMA Architecture + Design challenges the traditional boundaries of architectural practice by asking one question. “How do we achieve the maximum positive impact through design?”

That curiosity leads to technological innovations, valuable community engagements, and ultimately to positive changes in people’s lives. From planning and design, to consultation and evaluation, we take projects beyond what’s expected, and beyond what’s trending, to deliver places that maximize potential.

In the ways that we work, design, give back, and connect - we are catalysts for healthier, more creative, more engaged communities. If you want to create magnetic, public spaces with lasting social value, you’ve come to the right place.

Perspectives

Take a closer look inside HCMA through the eyes of the people who work here.

Meet the team

Principals

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Founding Partner

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Associates

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Directors

  • Eli Harris

    Eli Harris

    Director of Creative Strategy

  • Lynn Curtis

    Lynn Curtis

    Director of Human Resources

  • Mark Busse

    Mark Busse

    Director of TILT Curiosity Labs

  • Marni Robinson

    Marni Robinson

    Director of Community + Stakeholder Engagement

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Design Staff

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Studio Team

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Meet the team

Ashley Noone

  • Role

    Receptionist + Office Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2017

I believe design is about taking an idea, turning it on its head, flipping it inside out and then seeing if it will stand upright again. I'm motivated by the opportunity to support a team that challenges and expands perspectives and fosters new passions through the built environment. That, and coffee, lots of coffee.

Jeff Kavanagh

Architectural Technologist Registered in Ireland

  • Role

    Technologist

  • Year Joined

    2017

My motivation comes from the journey of working with people who care about what they do, to create architecture that is not only beautiful, but is carefully crafted and detailed to work and perform for those who interact with it.

Oli Lewis

BA

  • Role

    Marketing Strategist

  • Year Joined

    2018
I'm passionate about ideas that challenge the norm, especially when they prove how important architects and designers are in shaping society and improving lives.

Jubril Idowu

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2017

The opportunity to be a part of a very talented team that is devoted to solving problems.

Gabriel Lacombe

MArch, BAP

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2018
I am motivated by the idea of working on projects that are going to enhance people's everyday life; the way they interact with each others and the way they perceive the world we live in.

Jason Burtwistle

MArch, LEED AP BD+C

  • Role

    Sustainability Coordinator

  • Year Joined

    2018

I'm motivated by having a positive impact in communities through design, while also helping the planet. And good coffee.

Isabel Cullather

BA

  • Role

    Marketing Coordinator

  • Year Joined

    2018

I'm motivated by the excitement of discovering new ways to engage with our built environment

 

Niloufar Goodarzi

MArch, Bdes

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2018

I aim to make spaces that express empathy; whose designs are made with the needs and desires of its users with the hopes of making the everyday better.

Aiden Callison

Architect AIBC, LEED AP

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2009

I am driven by working on a variety of different types of projects, each requiring unique problem solving, that actively impact people’s everyday lives and create a stronger and more connected community.

Aiden is interested in creating spaces that remove physical and perceived barriers to foster diversity within our communities. He believes architecture is an opportunity to empower clients to make a positive social impact through design.

As an Associate, Aiden enjoys bringing clients and communities together to develop an integrated vision that excites and encourages conversation. His focus has been designing civic and recreation facilities, including the award-winning Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre in Surrey, BC and the Clayton Community Hub project with #ConnectingClayton engagement strategy.

In addition to practicing architecture, Aiden is a father, an athlete, an artist, a lifeguard and a firefighter.

Key Projects

Chloe Van Grieken

ARB, MArch

  • Role

    Registered Architect in the UK

  • Year Joined

    2016

Place-making encourages you to never stop learning – client to client and project to project you acquire snippets of knowledge about people, their world and in turn, the world around you. It’s that capacity to use your imagination to step into these fictional worlds and manipulate them until you create something that improves lives and spaces that motivates me as a designer.

Emily Wilson

Intern Architect AAA, March, BEDS

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2018

There's that moment in every successful project when the whole becomes greater than the sum of its parts; you realize you aren't "fixing" a problem but you're taking all of the constraints and turning them into opportunities.

Nicolas Dagenais-Lussier

MArch

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2018
The ability to learn about the world and be part of the thoughtful, respectful process that shapes it.

Joanne Tran

  • Role

    Marketing Coordinator

  • Year Joined

    2017

Endless possibilities - every day is different and I'm motivated by team collaboration to see how we can make great things happen from the ground up

Natalia Mulekova

Architect AIBC

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2017

I am motivated by our ability to solve problems through critical thinking and collaboration.

Jennifer Kwok

  • Role

    Marketing Coordinator

  • Year Joined

    2017

I'm motivated by a collaborative team and the ability to create impact with my actions

Lidia Pasini

Licensed Architect in Italy

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2018

I love to work on projects where both my brain and my heart are engaged. To do that with committed and positive people is a great added value.

Derek Harris

  • Role

    Technologist

  • Year Joined

    2018

Being part of a team that continually strives to improve the places around them, and is committed to the idea that “getting it right” is just a starting point… that’s pretty good motivation for me.

Ruth Cheung

  • Role

    Studio Manager

  • Year Joined

    2017

I am fascinated with how a space can facilitate community. I come alive in an environment where authenticity transcends from worker to actual work produced and purposeful collaboration is encouraged.

Fiona Jones

MArch, BA&Sc

  • Role

    Social Impact + Strategy Coordinator

  • Year Joined

    2017

I am motivated by the challenge of better understanding, measuring, and amplifying the links between the tangible and the intangible, the physical and the social.

Thomas Rooksby

ARB, MArch, BA (Hons)

  • Role

    Registered Architect in the UK

  • Year Joined

    2018

I am motivated by the profound impact architecture and design has in framing the messy reality of our everyday lives. It is rewarding to a be part of the process that shapes our built environment in positive, transformational ways, to create places for people.

Ilya Nepogodin

Intern Architect AIBC, March

  • Role

    Intern Architect

  • Year Joined

    2018

I am motivated by the fact that I can work to contribute positively to our society and have fun doing it with fantastic people alongside me.

Marni Robinson

MSc Public Health

  • Role

    Director of Community + Stakeholder Engagement

  • Year Joined

    2018

I love working on difficult problems — so much of what we value in the world comes from people working together to solve tough challenges.

Marni believes that great communities are shaped by the people who live, work and play in them, and loves to break down the barriers that keep people from getting involved. She brings over 20 years of experience in stakeholder engagement, program management, and strategic communications.

Prior to joining HCMA, Marni was a Director, Client Services at Context Research where she developed and led engagement and communications strategies for municipal community infrastructure projects across Metro Vancouver and the City of Calgary. She has been a champion for the creation of healthy, sustainable communities including projects that increase mobility, create connections between people and places, and that provide essential public services. In her role as Director of Community and Stakeholder Engagement Marni helps to ensure people’s voices are heard about what matters most to them. Marni was the past Chair of the Advisory Planning Commission at the City of North Vancouver and former Director of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society of British Columbia.

Lynn Curtis

CPHR

  • Role

    Director of Human Resources

  • Year Joined

    2019

Forward movement motivates me - from collaborating with senior leaders to bring out the best in their team, to supporting people at all levels in achieving their career goals.

Read Lynn's perspective on life at HCMA.

Byron Theriault

  • Role

    Communications + Experiential Designer

  • Year Joined

    2018

I enjoy contributing to a team of professionals to create superlative work.

Michael Dimock

Architect AIBC, MArch

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2017

I strive to uncover elegant solutions to complex problems.

Colin Reynolds

ARB, MArch

  • Role

    Registered Architect in the UK

  • Year Joined

    2018

Motivation at work comes from all different sources. Being surrounded by a design team, consultants, contractors and clients who are passionate about working towards something that we all believe in, is a big source of that motivation.

Adèle Worsley

BA(Hons), MSc

  • Role

    Social Impact Researcher

  • Year Joined

    2018

I'm driven by the potential of novel research, creative collaborations, and anthropological insights in addressing pressing issues of our time.

Maeve Counihan

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2019
I am motivated by being faced with challenges and working to find the most efficient and innovative solutions.

Judy Bau

BA

  • Role

    Communication Design Project Manager

  • Year Joined

    2018

There is nothing quite like being surrounded by positive creative energy to inspire you to do better every day.

Elena Bushell

Intern Architect AIBC, MArch, BSc

  • Role

    Intern Architect

  • Year Joined

    2018

I'm motivated by the spaces that make us think, spark wonder, reflect our values and bring us all a little closer.

Brittany Wong

  • Role

    Studio Coordinator

  • Year Joined

    2019

I am motivated when I'm a part of a collaborative work environment fueled from different ideas and passions.

Kailey O’Farrell

Intern Architect AIBC, MArch

  • Role

    Intern Architect

  • Year Joined

    2018

The challenge of tricky parameters that provide the opportunity to find creative and elegant solutions is what motivates me at work.

Maria Ferré i Viladés

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2019

I believe that spaces affect people’s emotions. I want to share spaces where people feel excited, free and comfortable. It’s amazing how we, as architects, can change sensations through design.

Petra Hulova

Ing. Arch (Czech Republic)

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2018

I am very excited about exploring how architecture could contribute to overall human happiness.

Sophia Dvorzsak

  • Role

    Technologist

  • Year Joined

    2019

I'm motivated by the collective process of creating buildings and spaces that tread lightly on the earth and improve the lives of those who occupy them.

Svetlana Iakusheva

  • Role

    Accountant

  • Year Joined

    2019

I like helping people with decision making by providing them with financial information.

Sara Eslami

  • Role

    Controller

  • Year Joined

    2019

I get excited about learning the current practices and exploring improvement opportunities.

Corey Grobe

Architectural Technologist AIBC

  • Role

    Architectural Technologist

  • Year Joined

    2017

I am motivated by finding elegant solutions to complex problems.

Mackenzie Sinclair

Intern Architect AIBC

  • Role

    Intern Architect

  • Year Joined

    2017

Architecture has the ability to facilitate change. Change is good.

Kate Mathers

Intern Architect AIBC, March

  • Role

    Intern Architect

  • Year Joined

    2016

The pursuit of design solutions that prioritize positive impact on human experiences motivates me.

Jivan Khera

BArch, MArch

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2019

The opportunity to design inclusive, thoughtful, and sustainable projects is what motivates me.

Alberto Buldon

  • Role

    Project Assistant

  • Year Joined

    2019

I get extremely motivated knowing that I am working to solve part of people's life problems by means of the the best design solutions we can provide them with.

Darin Harding

Architect AAA

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2017

I'm motivated by discovering new ideas and bringing them to life.

Darin is passionate about creating public spaces that support, shape and improve people’s daily life. He enjoys working closely with clients, user groups and design teams to discover new ideas and transform those ideas into reality.

By curating expectations, welcoming people to gather, building excitement, sparking curiosity and inviting reflection, architecture has the ability to positively shape our experiences. Darin believes this contributes to the culture of our communities, and has the potential to enhance our lives.

As an Associate, Darin brings experience leading diverse teams on public space design, transportation, and recreation projects in Vancouver and Edmonton. At HCMA Darin combines his love of sports and architecture by designing community and recreation facilities. His recent projects include the University of Windsor Lancer Facility, Museum of Surrey, and North Vancouver's Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre.

Zina Berrada

MSc (SED), BSArch, LEED Green Associate, CPHD

  • Role

    Sustainability Coordinator

  • Year Joined

    2017

The pursuit of improving people's lives through well-integrated architecture constantly nourishes my curiosity, and helps me brave every design challenge.

Rinat De Picciotto

BA (psychology), BDes

  • Role

    Communications + Experiential Designer

  • Year Joined

    2018

I'm driven by creating designs that matter, asking questions that further exploration and being part of a team that truly cares about making a positive impact in the world.

Gregor McCarroll

Intern Architect AIBC, MArch, BEnvd, BBA

  • Role

    Intern Architect

  • Year Joined

    2016

I’m motivated by being a part of a team that is committed to leaving the next generation a better place to live, work and play.

Dominic Yu

Architect AIBC, LEED AP

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2016

I'm motivated by the exploration of architecture and the opportunity to design places that inspire engaging experiences.

Nicole Laguit

Dipl.Tech (ABET)

  • Role

    Junior Technologist

  • Year Joined

    2018

Coming up with creative ideas to improve things motivates me. I love being around people who are passionate about the same things as me.

Alana Green

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2019

I love design and the process of collaboration.

Trish Piwowar

Architect AIBC, OAA, RAIC

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2018

I am driven by working on projects that matter - where the design of spaces and places have a profound and positive affect on those that use them.

Henry Kitchell

Barch, Architect registered in Denmark

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2017

My motivation comes from seeing great design come to reality.

Kim Winston

ARB UK, MArch

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2016

Why do I do what I do? People. To help create beautiful buildings for people that inspire, engage and adapt to meet the varied needs and desires of communities, both now and in the future.

Kim is interested in creating architecture that helps people imagine and then realize new possibilities for their communities. She enjoys working with clients and communities to understand their various needs and establish a shared vision for a project.

As an Associate, Kim brings over 10 years of experience working on community, educational, residential and commercial and master planning projects. Her work focuses on finding cost-efficient design solutions that inspire and engage the community. Kim was integral to the Granville Island 2040 Land Use Vision & Strategy project as well as a number of feasibility and schematic design studies for community and recreational facilities.

Kim loves being an architect because she can work in a team that continually questions and finds solutions to make better buildings and cities.

Key Projects

Adam Fawkes

Architect AIBC, MRAIC, LEED AP

  • Role

    Managing Associate (Victoria)

  • Year Joined

    2007

Collaborating with thoughtful, honest people to find the right questions and working with them towards the best answer – that’s what motivates me.

Adam’s calm, professional demeanour is key to creating architecturally expressive, cost-effective and constructible design solutions. His cooperative, team approach and past experience in the construction industry have earned him the respect and trust of clients, consultants and the construction industry.

As the Managing Associate of our Victoria studio, Adam offers our clients 20 years’ experience working on recreation, community and educational projects. He has developed special expertise in sustainable architecture, having been a leading member of the design team for several LEED® Platinum buildings, including a sewage treatment plant, and as project architect for multiple Passive House projects. He has successfully led facility design for $65 M design-builds projects in addition to renovations and additions.

Adam enjoys a little friendly sporting competition and has competed regionally in rowing, alpine and Nordic ski racing, marathon running, triathlon and, most recently, cyclocross racing. The most challenging event he’s ever completed was the Knee Knacker ultramarathon trail run from Horseshoe Bay to Deep Cove via the North Shore mountains.

Key Projects

Alan Tse

BES (Planning), MArch, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP

  • Role

    Project Manager

  • Year Joined

    2011

 I love the opportunity to continually learn new things.

Alexandra Kenyon

Architect AIBC, MArch, BDes

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2012

I'm inspired by the constant change of the City with all of its nooks and peculiarities. I'm motivated to see it all and understand why it ticks.

Alexandra is interested in designing city spaces where activities and ideas mix to shape urban culture. She is committed to providing design solutions for these dense spaces so that they meet a community’s needs, now and in the future.

As an Associate, Alexandra enjoys working directly with stakeholders, policy makers and the community to strengthen the design culture in Canada. Her unique interdisciplinary background, first in design then architecture, influences the success she has had in challenging the way people perceive their city’s spaces – the More Awesome Now Laneway Activation is one of several projects that Ali is working on to reshape the city’s urban landscape. She also played a key role in the development of HCMA’s books POOLS: Aquatic Architecture and PLACES: Public Architecture.

Ali plays beach volleyball all year round, and her ideal night ends with karaoke.

Key Projects

Bonnie Retief

  • Role

    Communication + Experiential Designer

  • Year Joined

    2015

As humans, everything we design, create, publish or build, is done so for people to engage with on some level. It's this moment of engagement, whether active or passive, that truly interests me - it's the reason why we as designers exist.

Carl-Jan Rupp

Architect AIBC, SAA, OAA, MRAIC, Dipl-Ing, LEED AP

  • Role

    Principal

  • Year Joined

    2000

I look for innovative and creative solutions to the design challenges we face because I want to leave the world a better place for my children.

Carl-Jan's passion for understanding human behaviour and interaction motivates him to find creative, cost-effective ways to integrate social gathering and casual learning spaces into projects — a special way that he adds value for our clients and our community.

Since 2005, he has been managing our growing HCMA Victoria studio and has expertise in recreation, community, aquatic, institutional and educational design. His close attention to detail and conscientious approach to project and team management ensures the success of complex projects. His extensive experience includes master plans and renovations to aquatic and sports facilities in excess of $70 M.

Carl-Jan is a member of the Esquimalt Design Panel and was previously Vice-Chair of the Saanich Advisory Design Panel. He holds a Masters degree in Architecture and Urban Planning with a specialization in green technology.

Key Projects

Craig Lane

Architect AIBC, MRAIC

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2005

I love making cities better places to live. By helping to build social networks, my architectural work satisfies a big part of this passion.

Craig thrives on teams that share the common goal of creating strong public buildings that are truly civic-minded amenities.

An Associate and Technical Director at HCMA, Craig’s mandate is to provide high quality design and the consistent, thorough construction documentation needed to support it. He oversees the quality control and technical review processes across our practice with a detail-oriented and rigorous approach.

Craig has been a Program Director for Construction Specifications Canada, an Intern Mentor for the AIBC, Sessional Instructor and Studio Critic for the Royal Architecture Institute of Canada’s Syllabus Program,  a Coordinator for the MacMillan Bloedel Lectures on Architecture, and the Alcan Lectures on Architecture.

With over 25 years of experience, he is a creative and versatile architect proficient in all phases of design spanning project types from educational (including post-secondary) to recreational facilities.

Craig’s curiosity has taken him exploring across the globe. He also makes fantastic cakes and Halloween costumes.

Key Projects

Federica Piccone

Architect AIBC, LEED AP

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2012

The creative and investigative nature of the architecture design process is what excites me about work. The constant learning and discovery with every project keeps things fun and interesting!

Daniel Philippot

Architect AIBC, MRAIC, LEED AP

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2005

I'm at my creative best when I'm engaged in helping people solve problems.

Daniel enjoys the surprise in people's eyes when they experience things he’s helped create. He thrives when teams pull together to realize a vision and is driven by a perpetual desire to find a better way to create.

As an Associate at HCMA, Daniel has expertise in recreation, civic and institutional projects, with a focus on post-secondary education and student residences. He loves how the simplicity and tactile expression of a building’s form bring delight to those who experience a space.

With a background in journalism, Daniel possesses strong communication skills that are invaluable on projects with complex stakeholder groups. His study of architecture has taken him across the globe, including studios in Chile and Korea, and earned him a travel scholarship to research sustainable practices in northern Europe.

On the weekends, he can be found cultivating his garden and building furniture.

Key Projects

Eli Harris

  • Role

    Director of Creative Strategy

  • Year Joined

    2015

As designers we are imagining and shaping a future. It’s our responsibility to face that future with our eyes wide open, recognizing the demands and possibilities tomorrow will bring.

Eli is interested in finding solutions to the needs of tomorrow. As Director of Creative Strategy, she collects insights on upcoming trends in design, social behaviour, and technology, creating a picture of what the world we are designing for might look like.

Eli brings years of experience in design across multiple disciplines. She studied Menswear Design at the University of Leeds, where she honed her skills in forecasting trends for large international retailers, premium brands and start-up studios. In 2015, she joined HCMA with a fresh perspective and a mandate to streamline our studio processes. In her current role, she tracks global shifts and trends to ensure projects are relevant and responsive, both now and for future generations.

A proper Londoner at heart, Eli enjoys a pint and a bustling city. Equally at home in Vancouver, she is always on the lookout for whales and can be found climbing mountains, combing beaches and exploring remote locations around the globe.

Elise Woestyn

Architect AIBC, CPHD

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2012

I love solving problems, seeing the client happy, and seeing what was designed built.

Eric Tinlup Ng

Architect AIBC, AIA

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2015

I love the opportunity to help people imagine better futures together and helping make those a reality.

For Eric, architecture is an opportunity to help people imagine better futures together and transform their visions into a reality. He is passionate about creating spaces that are sustainable and just through rigorous research, close collaboration and cross-disciplinary creativity.

As an Associate, Eric has led design teams on institutional and educational projects from schematics through to completion, including the Surrey RCMP Expansion and the Museum of Surrey addition. With over ten years’ experience, he is recognized in the industry for his keen eye to detail and his composure, which puts clients and colleagues at ease in complex situations.

Eric received his Master of Architecture degree at Columbia University where he graduated with the school’s top honours, including the American Institute of Architects Award, William Kinne Memorial Traveling Prize, and the school’s nomination for the SOM Foundation Traveling Fellowship.

Outside of HCMA, Eric has taught at Columbia University and maintains his academic interests by serving as a guest critic for design studios.

Key Projects

Ian McLean

Architect AIBC, LEED AP

  • Role

    Special Projects Manager

  • Year Joined

    2007

I appreciate how HCMA values each of our contributions to a greater goal and gives us freedom to contribute in our own way.

Jay Lin

Architect AIBC, MRAIC

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2005

I love that the work we do engages people in so many different and profound ways — physically, spatially, socially and spiritually.

Detail-oriented and precise, Jay is a conscientious project manager, who has delivered facilities with some of the most strict technical and operational requirements. A creative and versatile architect, his designs strike the balance for public spaces that perform and delight.

Jay is experienced in all phases of design and construction for institutional, residential and commercial projects. He was Project Architect for the Steveston Fire Hall, recognized with a Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia Award of Excellence in 2015, as well as the UniverCity Childcare Centre, which is currently seeking Living Building Challenge status and referred to as ‘possibly the greenest childcare centre on the planet’.

He was awarded a RAIC Design Medal for his design thesis at Carleton University and worked in New York, Ottawa and Toronto before returning to Vancouver.

Jay has an enviable Hot Wheels collection and credits his three young boys for keeping him at his mental and physical best.

Key Projects

Jessika MacDonald

Architect AIBC, MArch

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2014

Living in Vancouver provides incredible opportunities for my two greatest passions, running and drawing. In my spare time I am often found somewhere along the seawall, either in my runners or with a set of paints.

Juenessa Collins

Architectural Technologist AIBC, LEED AP BD+C, CPHD

  • Role

    Architectural Technologist

  • Year Joined

    2015

I love the "aha” moment after finding the impossible answer to a difficult problem. My motivation is at its best when I'm heading to a new challenge and working with a team and client who are passionate about the design of the project.

Mark Busse

Certified CGD Designer, BA, FGDC

  • Role

    Director of TILT Curiosity Labs

  • Year Joined

    2015

I love feeding off other people's energy and the co-creation moments that occur when ideas collide and combine.

Mark is a recovering communication designer and experienced facilitator with a belief that curiosity and conversation can result in built environments that delight and inspire.

As a Director with a diverse and extensive background, his efforts are focused on using design and creativity as a catalyst for positive change in communities, primarily through our TILT curiosity labs initiative.

Mark’s career has put him on the frontier of applying design methods to social and strategic questions in business, community and the arts, and he is an outspoken design industry writer, speaker and activist, serving on various industry boards, advisory councils, and education programs. He is the host of Creative Mornings/Vancouver and Interesting Vancouver.

Prior to studying graphic arts and design, Mark studied business administration and fine arts during his undergraduate education. In 1997, Mark founded the strategy and design consultancy Industrial Brand, where he focused on the A/E/C built environment sector for nearly a decade, using his background in research, strategy, identity and communication design, and the creative process to help organizations realize brand and marketing potential.

Mark’s other interests include travel, cultural immersion, and cooking. He lives in East Vancouver with his wife and dog.

Melissa Higgs

Architect AIBC, MRAIC

  • Role

    Principal

  • Year Joined

    2005

Spaces that support, encourage and foster a range of social interactions have the power to improve the world and build human connections in ways that are small but can have profound and lasting positive impact.

Melissa is passionate about creating innovative public buildings where communities come together, and is a believer in the power of architecture and design as a catalyst for positive change in the world.

As a Principal, she enjoys working closely with clients to find creative solutions to their unique design challenges. Her focus has been designing recreation facilities and arts and culture projects, including the award-winning Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre in Surrey, BC. She is also experienced with long-range vision plans, including Granville Island 2040 and the Vancouver Aquatic Strategy.

Melissa also plays a key role in managing and developing our +Design services. She believes that true collaboration and cross-disciplinary design has the power to improve creative outcomes across all project types and scales. The influence of this work can be seen in her Clayton Community Hub project, which includes the #ConnectingClayton engagement strategy.

In 2014, Melissa co-taught the Social Sustainability in Practice course at the University of British Columbia School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA), and for the past two years taught an architectural design studio at SALA. She is a past member of AIBC’s Diverse Membership Group and the City of Surrey’s Advisory Design Panel, and a current member of the Policy Advisory Council for the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association (DVBIA).

Melissa loves being an architect because of the opportunities it provides to innovate, be curious, and give back to her community.

Read Melissa's perspective on life at HCMA.

Key Projects

Michael Henderson

Architect AIBC, MRAIC

  • Role

    Principal

  • Year Joined

    2000

I smile at work because I get to create engaging and relevant buildings with inspired colleagues and clients. I get to learn from others and share what I’ve learned — it’s the best combo going.

For Michael, it’s all about creating an engaged and empowered team where personal strengths can grow and flourish. Driven by connections with ambitious and engaged individuals, Michael promotes community building in both the facilities we design as well as in our studio environment.

With a unique focus on sports, recreation and community centres, he has acted as Project Architect for some of our largest aquatic and recreation projects, both in BC and across Canada. A skilled leader, Michael oversaw the design and construction of the award-winning Hillcrest Centre, which was voted Best Community Centre by locals in the Georgia Straight’s Best of Vancouver for three consecutive years (2012-2015). He is currently leading the Complexe Aquatique de Laval, a design competition won by HCMA + NFOE in joint venture. He has also served on the City of Vancouver's City Planning Commission, a public advisory body to city staff and council.

Outside of our studio, Michael finds inspiration relaxing at the family cabin he designed on Sidney Island, running West Coast trails and wandering around foreign cities.

Read Mike's perspective on life at HCMA.

Key Projects

Paul Fast

Architect AIBC, MRAIC

  • Role

    Principal

  • Year Joined

    2009

Architecture is inherently philosophical and yet relentlessly pragmatic. Somewhere in the middle, it defines how we work, play and find delight in this world. That’s the good stuff.

Paul is interested in creating architecture that helps to extract and define a strong regional identity. His work is focused on reconnecting people to their environments through the considered use of material, form, space and light.

As a Principal, Paul enjoys the initial stages of concept design when site, user and program are defined. His careful consideration of these critical decisions helps shape the outcome of the design and building process. Paul believes that transformative change can happen at any scale, and has lead projects ranging from a children’s playhouse to a complex, $80 M community recreation centre. He has led several of our TILT Curiosity Labs initiatives including the 2015 IDSwest stage design, Coal Harbour Deck concept and the #MoreAwesomeNow Laneway Activation.

Paul holds a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and a Masters of Architecture from the University of British Columbia and gained experience abroad in Switzerland and Russia, where he designed an orphanage for a non-profit group.

When not architecting, he can be found chasing wild animals in the remotest regions of British Columbia, or hanging out at the cabin with his wife and three boys.

Read Paul's perspective on life at HCMA.

Key Projects

Rachel Wilson

BTech (Arch Sci)

  • Role

    Technologist

  • Year Joined

    2010

I love the great projects at HCMA, my teammates and the extracurricular activities like our softball team.

Rance Mok

Architect AIBC

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2011

I appreciate HCMA’s ongoing pursuit of better social and spatial experiences as well as our sense of adventure. There are always exciting questions to be put forward and explored.

For Rance, public spaces have the power to cultivate healthy conversations and strengthen our communities. She is interested in architecture that is accessible and open to all.

As an Associate, Rance enjoys collaborating with clients and user groups to design vibrant and inviting spaces that reflect a city’s culture and values. She has gained a diverse range of experience in the community and recreation sectors, including Oak Bay High School and Windsor International Aquatic and Training Centre.

Rance loves being an architect because of the relationships she can build with owners, consultants, contractors and users. She is driven and inspired by individuals around her, particularly the people in her community who continually invest their time, ideas and resources to the City’s arts and culture scene.

Read Rance's perspective on life at HCMA.

Key Projects

Rob Wilson

Dip Arch Tech, BSc

  • Role

    Technologist

  • Year Joined

    2014

I enjoy the ever changing challenges and the reward of seeing something evolve from a concept to a real place.

Karen Marler

Architect AIBC, SAA, OAA, FRAIC, LEED® AP

  • Role

    Principal

  • Year Joined

    1984

To quote one of my past professors of architectural theory, ‘Design is a wicked problem – there is no right or wrong answer, but there is a best solution.'

Karen’s work strives to enhance quality of life, strengthen community, and minimize environmental impact, predominantly through the design of learning environments. With over 28 years’ experience, she is motivated by the artful and appropriate integration of context, form, and function. She challenges traditional design thinking by posing the question, “What’s possible?”

Karen was named a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada in 2010 and a Cascadia Fellow in 2014, and is a past member of the UBC Advisory Urban Design Panel. She is a frequent guest critic and thesis advisor for the UBC School of Architecture and has presented HCMA’s work to numerous educational institutions and associations.

Adept at understanding each project’s unique issues, Karen leads multi-disciplinary teams in the design and development of sustainable public buildings. Her attention to detail and rigorous management of the design and construction process creates true value for money within schedule and budget constraints.

Key Projects

Darryl Condon

Architect AIBC, AAA, SAA, OAA, FRAIC, LEED® AP

  • Role

    Managing Principal

  • Year Joined

    1994

Our team at HCMA has a tremendously powerful alignment of intention and purpose — this creates magic.

Darryl is interested in design that acts as a catalyst for positive change. As Managing Principal, he has created successful public spaces including community centres, pools, recreation facilities, fire halls and libraries across Canada.

Darryl is the President of the AIBC Council, a past member of the City of Vancouver Urban Design Panel (2012-2013), President of the BC Recreation and Parks Association, and Adjunct Faculty at UBC School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture. He has lectured extensively on issues related to sport and recreation facility design for groups across the globe and is a Fellow of the RAIC.

After 25 years of practice creating dynamic, engaging and effective spaces, Darryl is asking ‘What’s next?" The intent is to push, think and break away from preconceptions at every scale, to maximize the impact and potential of projects and collaborations. These efforts are focussed on creating spaces that leave lasting legacies in our communities.

Read Darryl's perspective on life at HCMA.

Key Projects

Roger Hughes

Architect AIBC, AAA, SAA, OAA, FRAIC, LEED® AP

  • Role

    Founding Partner

  • Year Joined

    1975

I love the excitement of solving problems with design. Creating architecture that resonates beyond its boundaries gives greater meaning to our lives.

As a leader practicing in the field of public and institutional work, Roger has focused his 40-year career on leveraging the power of design to contribute to a strong, healthy and socially diverse society.

In 1976, he formed Roger Hughes Architects, a firm that has evolved over four decades to become HCMA Architecture + Design. As founding partner of HCMA’s predecessor firms and former Principal, he has continued involvement in projects and contributes to design leadership and staff mentorship.

Roger is a current and past member of the Vancouver Urban Design Panel and the Shaughnessy Design Panel, and has been active as a Guest Critic at the UBC School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture. He was made a fellow of the RAIC for his contribution to design excellence in 1995 and recognized with an AIBC Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015.

During his career, Roger has led post-secondary, residential, civic, public, recreation, commercial and urban design projects. His work has adapted to changing contexts and needs while consistently being recognized for its design excellence receiving several CHDC and RAIC Governor General’s Medals in Architecture.

Key Projects

Steve DiPasquale

Architect AIBC

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2010

The big questions motivate me. Can we make this design socially progressive? How can we make this transformative for the City?

Read Steve's perspective on life at HCMA.

Stuart Rothnie

Architect AIBC, SAA, OAA, MRAIC, LEED AP

  • Role

    Principal

  • Year Joined

    2000

I’m feeling very positive about the future at HCMA; I think the evolving firm has huge potential. We have excellent people, a very strong culture and I think that it can only get better.

One of Stuart’s most striking skills is his approachable and receptive nature, which puts clients and user groups at ease even in the most complex circumstances. A tremendous listener and respected facilitator, he is able to quickly summarize and present a vision that excites and encourages dialogue.

Practicing for over 30 years, Stuart has gained a diverse range of experience in the community recreation, institutional, healthcare and commercial sectors. He has been a Chair of the West Vancouver Advisory Design Panel, Lower Caulfield Advisory Design Panel and has also participated in various planning commissions and arts committees in addition to coaching soccer and field hockey.

His leadership skills have contributed to large-scale design-build, P3 projects and master plans, complex multi-storey acute care towers and numerous renovations within operational facilities. In addition to his vast design experience, Stuart offers significant expertise in the management of large consultant teams and facilitating high value outcomes for his clients.

Key Projects

Susan Ockwell

Architect AIBC, LEED AP

  • Role

    Associate

  • Year Joined

    2015

Working collaboratively with the goal of creating dynamic places that connect and inspire people is what I enjoy most about our profession. Socially sustainable potential for learning institutions and their communities is a motivational starting point.

Susan is passionate about creating sustainable learning institutions that foster personal and professional growth for generations to come. She takes inspiration from the details and diversities in our region to find new and better design solutions that push the traditional boundaries of architecture.

Practicing for over twenty years, Susan has extensive experience designing educational facilities at all levels from elementary to post-secondary. As an Associate, she enjoys working collaboratively with clients to realize their vision for dynamic spaces that connect and inspire the community.

As a native British Columbian, Susan is curious by nature and is never quite finished exploring our region and beyond – preferably on two wheels.

Key Projects

Vanessa Konn

Architect AIBC, MArch, BFA

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2015

I’m motivated by the “Make-It-Happen” moments.

Zubin Shroff

Architect AIBC, LEED AP BD+C

  • Role

    Architect

  • Year Joined

    2015

I love producing simple design solutions that address multiple issues.

Creative Culture at HCMA

Creative Culture at HCMA

What's it like to be part of our team?

We do cool things. All the time. Shaping cities and communities through meaningful architecture + design requires compassion, thoughtfulness, professionalism and inspiration. Those assets are as central to our practice as laptops and hardhats, so we invest in them.

Check out TILT Curiosity Labs. TILT is to HCMA what a phone booth is to Clark Kent – essential and transformational.

Take a virtual tour of our Vancouver studio.

Watch what happens when our Vancouver and Victoria studios get together for HCMA Day, an intensive exploration away from client work to test, question and create.

Step inside the 'Surroundings' mural by Michael Rozen + Scott Sueme, commissioned through our Artist-in-Residence program.

Are you an intern architect?

As part of our commitment to developing our team and our industry, we set up the HCMA Intern Support Program to remove barriers to registration. Since 2006, approximately 10% of all architects registered through internship in British Columbia have benefited from our program.

Are you active in your community?

We support pro bono work and volunteerism. We have a matching donation program, and through our corporate donations and sponsorships we support arts + culture, community service, human rights and civic action groups.

Do you want to join our quest to discover what’s possible?

The team at HCMA lives and breathes creativity, engagement and excellence. If your pulse picked up a little as you read this, if you feel you can contribute to our quest – if you can see yourself here – join our mailing list to get notified of news, events and new opportunities.

Careers at HCMA

Careers at HCMA

Careers at HCMA
Internships at HCMA

Work With Us

HCMA Architecture + Design loves meeting passionate and talented individuals who value a collaborative environment and a flexible, professional culture in their careers.

Our firm offers opportunities to participate in a variety of interesting civic projects; encouragement to take part in socially and environmentally engaged activities outside of the office; responsible workplace practices, including end-of-trip facilities; and an intern architect program that supports an accelerated architectural registration process.

Current Opportunities at HCMA

Interior Designer

Interior Designer

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  • Location
    Vancouver or Victoria

HCMA designs buildings, brands, and experiences that maximize positive impact. To do this, we bring together passionate, intelligent, and engaged individuals who want to make a lasting change.

If you’re looking to make a positive impact on society, we want to hear from you.

We are looking for an established Interior Designer who has more energy than we know what to do with. You have in-depth experience of design and detailing on projects across multiple sectors, with exceptional creative flair alongside clear technical ability. You’ll also be an organized and proactive doer, who has the confidence and tenacity to bring a fresh perspective to our team.

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We are an interdisciplinary firm; our architects, designers, engagement specialists, and strategists work collaboratively on projects from conception to completion without the traditional silos. This adds a great deal to the quality of our work and requires strong communication and collaboration skills. If you’re our new Interior Designer, friends and colleagues describe you as:
  • A positive team player who always asks, ‘What can I do to improve this…what’s possible?’
  • An organized project manager, confident coordinating with multiple teams and deadlines
  • Flexible and adaptable, with demonstrated initiative and multitasking capabilities
  • Creative, curious and collaborative
  • Self-motivated, organized and pro-active
And you’ll possess:
  • 5+ years design and technical experience, including FF&E
  • A degree in Interior Design (or equivalent)
  • Registered Interior Designer with IDIBC or equivalent is desirable
  • Experience working collaboratively with architects and external consultants
  • Excellent presentation, graphic design, conceptual and digital visualization skills
  • Proficiency in Revit, Creative Suite, and Sketch-up or equivalent
  • Comprehensive space planning and spatial analysis skills
  • Passion and enthusiasm for design and culture
  • Good knowledge and understanding of colour, materials and products
Email careers@hcma.ca with a statement on why you are right for our team. Get creative and convince us you’re the kind of person who wants to question the status quo, and that we’d be foolish not to hire you.  
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Architect – Intermediate to Senior Level

Architect – Intermediate to Senior Level

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  • Location
    Vancouver or Victoria

Are you curious about the city you live in? If we asked you "What's possible?" would you look for an answer? HCMA Architecture + Design is serious about improving our world through architecture, promoting social sustainability, and being engaged in a broad spectrum of civic issues. To do this, we bring together passionate, intelligent and engaged individuals who want to make a significant impact. HCMA is looking to add an Intermediate/Senior Level Architect to our team in Vancouver. We are interested in individuals who are excited by the future of architectural thinking, and who are committed to community and city building.

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If you’re well-suited for this position, you possess the following:
  • Minimum of five years post-graduation relevant work experience in designing residential and public buildings as well as experience in planning or design of urban spaces
  • Experience developing projects from start to finish with minimum supervision, including conceptualizing, designing, construction and contract documents and effective liaison with contractors, specialist sub-consultants and clients
  • AIBC registration preferred
  • A high level of proficiency in SketchUp, Revit, and Adobe InDesign Suite; (AutoCAD, 3d Max and Vray are also beneficial)
  • Appreciation of high quality architectural design and the ability to apply rigour and design intent to all levels of detailing
  • Strong technical, graphic, organizational and communication skills
  • Demonstrated innovative approach to, and progressive understanding of, architecture, public spaces design and technology
  • A commitment to professionalism
  • Ability to work independently and through collaboration and co-creation
  • Direct Site Supervision and Construction Administration experience an asset
If you've got what it takes to be a part of HCMA, show us. Email careers@hcma.ca with a statement on why you are right for our team. Get creative and convince us you’re the kind of architect who explores and questions the world through smart thinking and design, and that we’d be foolish not to hire you. Only qualified candidates will be contacted, no phone calls or drop-ins please.
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Architectural Technologist

Architectural Technologist

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  • Location
    Vancouver or Victoria

HCMA designs buildings, brands, and experiences that maximize positive impact. To do this, we bring together passionate, intelligent and engaged individuals who want to make a lasting change. We are looking to add Architectural Technologists to our teams in both Vancouver and Victoria BC. If you are excited by the future of architectural thinking and are committed to community and city building, we want to hear from you.

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If you’re well-suited for this position, you possess the following:
  • A passion for architecture with a broad spectrum of experience in the process of achieving architectural objectives through participation in the design process, producing visualizations for design review and technical resolution, research of systems and products and developing standards for constructability and sustainability;
  • An appreciation of high quality architectural design and the ability to apply rigour and design intent to all levels of detailing;
  • A deep understanding of how to put together a set of construction documents that provides clarity to those who implement them;
  • Demonstrated experience detailing larger scale institutional buildings and market residential;
  • Construction Administration experience an asset;
  • Strong technical, graphic and organizational skills;
  • A high level of proficiency in Revit is necessary; AutoCAD knowledge is an asset;
  • A Diploma in Architectural Technology or equivalent;
  • A commitment to professionalism with an Architectural Technologist AIBC designation (preferred);
  • Ability to work independently and through collaboration and co-creation with a team;
  • Knowledge of the BC Building Code and its application to construction detailing;
  • Minimum five years post-graduation of relevant work experience in a similar role;
  • Strong ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with consultants and other stakeholders;
If you've got what it takes to be a part of HCMA, SHOW US. Email careers@hcma.ca with a statement on why you are right for our team.  Get creative, convince us you’re the kind of person who appreciates design and can translate that vision into a well-executed project, and that we’d be foolish not to hire you. Only qualified candidates will be contacted, no phone calls or drop-ins please
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General Applications

Interested in connecting with us, but don’t see an opening that suits your career goals? Send a general application for or Vancouver or Victoria studios to careers@hcma.ca. Get creative and show us why you are right for our team, that we'd be foolish not to hire you.

Publications

  • POOLS: Aquatic Architecture

    Book

  • PLACES: Public Architecture

    Book

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Book

POOLS: Aquatic Architecture

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POOLS: Aquatic Architecture is the definitive book on the design of public swimming pools. Ranging from small neighbourhood facilities to destination multi-sports complexes for the Olympic Games, the nine aquatic buildings shown within document the evolution of contemporary design thinking for this building type.

Illustrated with 268 photographs, drawings, diagrams and construction details, the 180 page book is an un-rivaled source for information on pool design, from their social ambitions to their construction features. Each example of aquatic architecture is explained in non-technical language, and with its inspiring photography and lucid drawings. The book will be of interest to casual swimmers, as well as recreation officials, parks managers, architects, engineers and fans of leading edge design. Read our POOLS Manifesto, just one of the essays in this publication.

  • Publication Date

    Fall 2013

  • Page Count

    180

  • ISBN

    978-1-935935-95-7
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Book

PLACES: Public Architecture

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  • Edited By

    Alexandra Kenyon

  • Foreword By

    Christopher Macdonald
  • Request a Copy

PLACES: Public Architecture explores a selection of key projects by HCMA which offer insight into the firm’s specific approach to community building through public architecture. Featured projects typologies, many of which have been challenged by contemporary advancements in technology, include schools, libraries, fire halls, childcare centres, and more. Through the practice of architecture HCMA asks “what is the future of the library, of education, and of public space in an increasingly online age?"

PLACES showcases six of HCMA’s recent civic facilities which seek to strengthen and enrich the communities, businesses and people they serve. The book features critical text by accomplished writer Jim Taggart, professional photography, lucid architectural drawings and details, as well as a look at the firm’s design process of iterative modeling/ diagramming and research on contemporary topics. It also features a window into HCMA's office culture and community building initiatives including HCMA Days, the Canfor Playhouse Challenge and a course taught by the firm on Social Sustainability at the UBC School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA).

  • Publication Date

    Fall 2015

  • Page Count

    144

  • ISBN

    978-1-941806-44-9