Two architectural practitioners, from Toronto and Vancouver, have been named to the Order of Canada. Donald Schmitt, principal of Diamond Schmitt Architects, and Raymond Cole, former director of UBC?s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, were among 83 new appointments announced last week.
The Order of Canada is a high civilian honour that recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.
Recipients who receive this award represent the Order?s Latin motto, Desiderantes Meliorem Patriam ? in translation: They desire a better country.
Photo Courtesy of Diamond Schmitt Architects
Born in South Porcupine, Ontario, Donald Schmitt is a University of Toronto School of Architecture graduate. His citation commends the architect ?for his rehabilitation of iconic heritage buildings and for his sustainable architectural designs.? Schmitt?s work includes the high-rise laboratories of The Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning at Sickids in Toronto; the new campus of Emily Carr University of Art + Design in Vancouver; and the collaborative academic environment of Lazaridis Hall at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario.
Also known for the re-imagination of landmark buildings such the National Arts Centre and The Senate of Canada Building in Ottawa, Schmitt is currently leading the design for the Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada joint facility.
?I am honoured and humbled to be among Canadians from a...