O2 is pleased to welcome Theresa Gould as Senior Associate joining the Landscape Architecture Studio in Toronto.  

Theresa has over 15 years of combined international and local experience working on hundreds of development focused projects. She is skilled in every phase of project development, from visioning and concept design to construction coordination, and offers a unique blend of technical expertise, leadership, and a rich design philosophy. 

In addition to her work in Ontario, Theresa has considerable international experience, having led complex projects across England, China, India, and Singapore. Her portfolio spans an impressive range of project scales - from intimate amenity terraces and parks in Toronto to innovative projects, such as an expansive green wall in Singapore, which earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for its size. 

Theresa is dedicated to delivering innovative spaces that invite people to experience and cherish the beauty of the outdoors. Her enthusiasm for creating spaces that inspire connection with nature is a true asset to O2, and we are excited to welcome her to our team. 

The BMO Centre at Stampede Park, now the largest convention centre in Western Canada, has been expanded by 565,000 square feet, increasing its total rentable area to over 1 million square feet with a capacity of 33,000. Working with Calgary Municipal Land Corporation and The Calgary Stampede, the expansion includes over 100,000 square feet of new exhibition space, 38 new meeting rooms, two new ballrooms totaling 70,000 square feet, a central gathering space called the Exchange, and a 100,000 square feet outdoor public plaza.

Working alongside Populous, Stantec and S2 Architecture, O2 led the design of the event plaza and streetscape for this project. The all-season gathering space spans nearly 100,000 square feet boasting art installations, highlighting Calgary Stampede’s history, and a variety of prairies plantings. Alberta’s diverse natural landscapes of the foothills, prairies, and mountains are showcased throughout the landscape design and planting selections.

The outdoor public plaza enhances and connects a series of public realm projects, such as the 17 Avenue Extension and Stampede Trail Streetscape Improvements, emphasizing connectivity between Stampede Park and the surrounding city. Inspired by the smooth tracks of a freshly groomed rodeo infield, the central pedestrian walkway, known as the Track, serves as the conduit between 17th Avenue, Stampede Trail and the plaza. The Track articulates a playful and intuitive ground, in which the different patterns work to help people move around, while celebrating the character of the place.

Paying homage to the iconic Calgary Stampede posters that once defined the Plus 15 entrance experience, replicas of 14 classic posters are embedded in the concrete along 17th Avenue SE. These posters were digitized and imparted onto precast concrete panels, preserving their historical significance. Vibrant red chairs, replicating the original seats that once adorned the Corral, are placed throughout the plaza, adding a touch of nostalgia and offering a spot to enjoy the Great Lawn, the Grand Staircase, pavilion, and the monumental sculpture, "Spirit of Water" by UK artist Gerry Judah.

Central to O2’s design ethos was creating a space for community gatherings and year-round enjoyment. The Great Lawn, the Grand Staircase, and the pavilion serve are the perfect settings for leisurely picnics, summer evening concerts, performances by the Calgary Stampede Showband, and various pop-up events and programmatic opportunities.

To create a dynamic and immersive environment, thousands of plants, including 50 species of perennials, aspens, and larches, have been planted. This thoughtful landscaping allows visitors to experience the seasonal beauty of Alberta's flora throughout the year.

O2 worked closely with PCL who assumed the role of construction manager, overseeing site coordination, safety efforts, and sub-trades. M3 Development Management was the project manager for the expansion.

Additional project consultants included RJC Engineers and MKA for structural engineering, Level Playing Field for accessibility, Urban Systems for civil engineering, and HLT Advisory for venue operations.

For more information about our project click here.

O2 is pleased to announce the promotion of Rachelle Dillon to Principal, further enhancing our Planning practice with her expertise in Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Planning. Rachelle, an urban planner with over 15 years of experience across Canada, has been a pivotal member of our team since joining O2 in 2016.

Rachelle's diverse background spans mobility planning, urban design, flood resiliency, heritage protection, ecological assessments, and open space planning. She has successfully completed over 20 significant plans and strategies, skillfully managing multi-disciplinary project teams and fostering strong client relationships.

“Notable projects in Rachelle’s portfolio include leading the Calgary City Building program, which developed the Calgary Plan, Zoning Bylaw, and Street Manual. She also spearheaded the Calgary River Valley Plan, modernizing flood policy and consolidating citywide regulations on flood hazards, recreation, development, ecology, and Indigenous landscapes, with a 25-year vision for community growth. Her work on the Waterfront Toronto Port Lands involved creating “Story Stream,” an interactive web platform for sharing data, stories, and experiences about the area. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in the Calgary Beltline Parks and Public Realm Playbook, evaluating the performance of parks and streets to inform future improvements."

“Our firm is strengthened by Rachelle’s collaborative approach and innovative problem-solving. As part of our leadership team, she will play a vital role in advancing our open space planning practice. We are confident that her expertise will further elevate our service offerings, enhancing the value we bring to our clients in helping to shape vibrant, resilient communities for the future.”  Trevor Davison, Managing Principal

O2 welcomes Nick Onody as newest Principal, elevating our Landscape Architecture Practice and formalizing our leadership in Ontario.

Nick brings a wealth of experience, with over 15 years leading the visioning, design development, and successful implementation of more than 50 nationally and internationally recognized, innovative, and award-winning projects. He brings a highly creative, strategic, and meticulous approach to tackling complex urban design and public realm projects at both the site and city scale.

His expertise extends to design creativity, detailing, and construction implementation, focusing attention to every aspect of the process. Throughout his work, Nick demonstrates a contemporary design approach across various scales, coupled with a distinctive dedication to crafting vibrant and dynamic public spaces. His designs are informed by a profound respect for ecology and natural processes, resulting in sustainable and harmonious environments.

Nick’s extensive global experience, ranges from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Doha, Qatar, to China. Locally in Canada, he has contributed to significant projects such as Royal Botanical Gardens 25-Year Master Plan, Aga Kahn Park in Toronto, the Calgary Riverwalk project, bringing an unparalleled depth of design expertise to our organization.

Furthermore, Nick offers mentorship and creative guidance to our design team, serving as the liaison between our clients and consultants. Through close collaboration with team members, he champions interdisciplinary design approaches and methodologies.

“We are excited to have Nick join our dedicated, diverse, and talented leadership team. This announcement strengthens our leadership in the Toronto Office, reinforcing our commitment to providing innovative and impactful solutions to the Ontario, Canadian and global market. Our focus remains on working closely with our clients and bringing forward-thinking design ideas”. Trevor Davison, Managing Principal

We are excited to celebrate with CMLC and The Calgary Stampede on the substantial completion of the BMO Centre expansion. Working closely with the design team of Stantec, Populous and S2, O2 led the landscape architecture and public realm design. O2 created a year-round destination that adapts to the diverse demands of events, exhibitions, and daily life.  

For more information about our project, click here

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O2 Planning and Design Inc.(O2), a leading multidisciplinary firm specializing in landscape architecture, planning, and urban design, is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Arts Bursary program. This groundbreaking initiative aims to foster creativity, support emerging talent, and bridge the gap between civic spaces and artistic expression. 

Empowering Canadian Artists 

In collaboration with renowned Canadian artist Aron Hill, O2 is inviting artists from diverse backgrounds and practices to apply for this unique opportunity. The selected artist will have the chance to create a work of artistic merit inspired by one of O2's innovative projects. 

A Comprehensive Support System 

The O2 Arts Bursary program goes beyond financial support, offering: 

• Financial support

• Mentorship from industry professionals 

• Creative guidance throughout the artistic process 

• Networking opportunities with leaders in landscape architecture, planning, urban design, data analytics, and public engagement.  

• A 12-month platform for artistic growth and meaningful exposure 

Long-Term Commitment to the Arts 

O2 Planning + Design is demonstrating its dedication to nurturing the arts community with a tentative four-year commitment to the program. This long-term vision underscores the company's belief in the transformative power of art in civic spaces. The bursary program welcomes applications from artists across all disciplines, reflecting O2's commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the arts. To ensure a wide reach, O2 is actively coordinating with various post-secondary institutions to receive applications from promising young artists. 

How to Apply 

Artists interested in this unique opportunity can find more information and submit their applications by visiting: https://forms.gle/uDSx284yhLiSJJkX6 

For more information about Aron Hill: www.aronhill.com 

Sibylle von Knobloch, an esteemed landscape architect and Principal has been shaping the urban landscapes across Canada. With her remarkable leadership, she has spearheaded the design of an impressive array of projects, both public and private, making a lasting impression on our communities.

Her portfolio of work reflects her dedication to excellence, design, and innovation. From the serene oasis of Gibson Park to the vibrant energy of Tippet Park, and the inviting Pat Bayly Square to the enchanting Holly Park, each project reflects Sibylle's unwavering commitment to innovative design solutions that prioritize environmental sustainability and promote holistic well-being.

Sibylle's dedication lies in fostering strong long-term relationships, emphasizing personalized attention and reliability. Clients trust in her exceptional service, knowing she is responsive to their inquiries.

In addition to her outstanding professional achievements, Sibylle has shared her expertise through prestigious advisory roles, such as serving on the Toronto Urban Design Review Committee and the Mississauga Urban Design Advisory Panel.

“Sibylle’s achievements are vast and evidenced by the numerous awards and accolades she has received throughout her career. From the prestigious recognition of the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects to the esteemed Urban Design Awards bestowed by the cities of Toronto, Mississauga, Vaughan, and Markham, her contributions have been celebrated far and wide.

In 2023, Sibylle's dedication to environmental stewardship was recognized with the prestigious OALA Carl Borgstrom Award, highlighting her dedication to protecting and enriching our natural environments.” Trevor Davison, Managing Principal

We celebrate Sibylle’s remarkable career and lasting influence in the profession of landscape architecture, whose legacy will thrive for generations to come.

O2, a multidisciplinary  planning and design firm, is pleased to announce the appointment of two Principals, seven Senior Associates, and nine Associates. We are a collaborative interdisciplinary team committed to shaping cities and designing landscapes that are beautiful, resilient, and equitable. 

“We take great pride in acknowledging these individuals for their valuable contributions to O2, as well as embodying our core values. Driven by their craft, they are forward thinkers who provide mentorship, inspire creativity, and showcase innovative design,” says Trevor Davison, Managing Principal.

O2’s new Principals are:

• Omair Chaudry, PhD, MSc, BE, Dip – Calgary

• Ute Maya-Giambattista, MCIP, RPP, LEED AP, M.Pl., B.Arch - Toronto

O2’s new Senior Associates are:

• Kiran Chhiba, MUD, BES (Planning), MCIP, RPP - Toronto

• Matt Knapik, March, MEDes - Calgary

• Nicholas Dykstra, March, MRAIC - Calgary

• Nick Onody, MLA, BA Urban Planning, OALA, CSLA, ASLA - Toronto

• Rachelle Dillon, MPLAN, RPP, MCIP - Calgary

• Sarah Danahy, MDes - Calgary

• Shawn Small, RPP, MCIP - Calgary

O2’s new Associates are:

• Adam Shamchuk, RPP, MCIP, BA - Edmonton

• Cameron Parkin, M.Arch, BAS - Toronto

• Daniel Saenz, MLA, March - Calgary

• Dave Mair, RPP, MCIP - Calgary

• Nicholas Kuhl, RPP, MCIP, MPL - Calgary

• Reinaldo Jordan, MLA, OALA, CSLA - Toronto

• Sara de Korte, AALA, CSLA, B.Land.Arch - Calgary

• Sarah Lumley, RPP, MCIP, MPl - Calgary

• Vanessa Develter, MCIP, RPP, MSc, MSc, BURPl - Calgary

This strategic move further propels innovation and fosters growth within the organization, reinforcing our commitment to becoming the most innovative planning and design firm in Canada.

For more information about our team, please click here.