Photo courtesy Diamond Schmitt Architects
Architects Raymond J. Cole and Donald R M. Schmitt have been named to the Order of Canada this year.
Toronto-based Schmitt, principal, Diamond Schmitt Architects, receives this award for his rehabilitation of iconic heritage buildings and sustainable architectural designs.
Schmitt was born in South Porcupine, Ont., and graduated from the University of Toronto School of Architecture. His portfolio includes many iconic buildings across Canada. Among recent projects are 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, Ont. He is also known for the re-imagination of landmark historical buildings, notably the National Arts Centre and the Senate of Canada Building in Ottawa.
“I am honoured and humbled to be among Canadians from all walks of life as a Member of the Order of Canada,” said Schmitt.
Photo courtesy the University of British Columbia School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture
Vancouver-based Cole, professor emeritus, the University of British Columbia School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA), is honoured for his skillful pairing of architecture and environmental sustainability and leadership in the field.
Cole taught at SALA for 40 years, serving as director between 2006 and 2009, before retiring in 2017. His outstanding teaching in the fields of environmental issues, regenerative design, and environmental performance in building design has been recognized by a number of awards.
Created in 1967, the Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest honours. Presented by the governor general, it honours people whose service shapes society, whose innovations ignite imaginations, and whose compassion unites communities.
