Pat Hanson
Founding Partner, gh3
Sector: Private Sector
Discipline: Planning/Urban Design
Year: 2016
Next Big Challenge As An Industry: These are critical times for investing in infrastructure with a focus on low-carbon objectives, building sustainably, and supporting climate change adaptation and resiliency. A holistic broad based approach that includes ecological systems and focuses on new development but also the retrofitting of our existing urban environment is necessary to approach this pivotal moment. As an architect, I believe good design is the lens through which these initiatives will achieve a better built environment for all.
On Championing Others… I have the honour of being on the advisory committee for BEAT – Building Equality in Architecture Toronto. BEAT is an independent organization dedicated to the promotion of equality in the profession of Architecture through advocacy, mentorship, networking and promotion.
I taught studio and participated as a guest reviewer at the University of Toronto and Waterloo, I am also a mentor for intern architects under the Ontario Association of Architects. However, I believe my most effective championing of young men and women architects is a result of our studio based practice (gh3), where a spirit of collaboration permeates throughout the office through an open exchange of ideas allowing decisions to be made based on a shared vision and a holistic understanding of project requirements.