In this episode of Architecturally Speaking, host Ryan Schwartz continues the three-part series on the Ontario Association of Architects’ SHIFT Challenge, focusing on the 2025 theme: Reshaping Communities.

Ryan speaks with David Peterson of David Peterson Architect and Luke Johnson of Lloyd London Architects. David presents Swansea Park, a conceptual redevelopment of the former Swansea Mews in Toronto, while Luke discusses his project, Parkdale Commons, a dynamic community hub that functions as a living food bank, providing fresh food, resources, and social services while fostering neighbourhood connection.

Together, they examine innovative approaches to community design, strategies for enhancing neighbourhood resilience, and creative solutions for the future of urban living.

Tune in for insights on how architecture can rethink communities and inspire more inclusive, adaptable urban spaces.

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In this episode of Architecturally Speaking, host Ryan Schwartz continues our three-part series on the Ontario Association of Architects’ SHIFT Challenge. In Part 2, we explore how architects are addressing climate change through innovative, sustainable design.

Ryan speaks with 2025 SHIFT Challenge winners Jerry Hacker, architect and professor at Carleton University, and David DiGiuseppe of Q4 Architects. Jerry’s project, Speculative Assemblies from Pine Needles to Pressed Coffee, reimagines regenerative materials, while David’s Designing for Resiliency at Home focuses on creating climate-ready housing.

Together, they discuss how architecture can reduce carbon impact, repurpose existing structures, and foster a more resilient future.

Tune in for fresh insights on sustainability, innovation, and reshaping communities.

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In this episode of Architecturally Speaking, host Ryan Schwartz welcomes listeners our three-part series on the Ontario Association of Architects’ SHIFT Challenge, a biennial competition inviting architects to explore bold ideas for the future of design.

This year’s theme, Reshaping Communities, focuses on rethinking how neighbourhoods are built to better respond to modern urban challenges. Ryan is joined by two winners of the 2025 SHIFT Challenge: Naama Blonder of Smart Density, whose project Subdivillage reimagines the subdivision, and Tim Scott, whose project The City Limits proposes a redesign of a century-old Toronto suburb.

Together, they share insights on the power of walkability, the importance of public space, and the need to move beyond car-dominated planning. From creating safe, pedestrian-first streets to introducing gentle density in established neighbourhoods, their visions highlight how thoughtful design can foster stronger, more sustainable communities.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the future of urban design and how architects can help reshape the places we live, work, and connect.

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In this episode of Architecturally Speaking, host Ryan Schwartz welcomes Ossie Airewele, Senior Associate at BDP Quadrangle, to explore the vital role of socially responsible and inclusive design.

Did you know these two concepts, while closely connected, serve distinct purposes? Ossie explains how socially responsible design emphasizes well-being and quality of life, while inclusive design extends this vision by ensuring spaces reflect and respect the needs of people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds.

With extensive experience leading high-rise residential and mixed-use projects across North America, Ossie brings both expertise and perspective to the conversation. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on how architecture can shape environments that make a meaningful difference in people’s everyday lives.

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In this episode of Architecturally Speaking, host Ryan Schwartz delves into the fascinating world of adaptive reuse  with acclaimed architect and interior designer Dee Dee Taylor Eustace. 

Did you know adaptive reuse is a key player in sustainability? Dee Dee explains how repurposing old buildings can conserve materials, reduce waste, and preserve historical character—all while meeting modern needs. 

As the founder of Toronto-based Taylor Hannah Architect, and with a career that includes hosting Love by Design on HGTV and appearing on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Dee Dee brings a wealth of experience and passion to the conversation.

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In this episode of Architecturally Speaking, host Ryan Schwartz dives into the intricate world of hospital design with expert Robin Snell, a director at Parkin Architects. With over 30 years of experience in healthcare architecture, Robin shares his insights on the complexities of designing hospitals and their profound impact on health and wellness.

Join us as we explore:

• The unique challenges of healthcare design and the importance of operational efficiency.
• How evidence-based design improves patient outcomes.
• The differences between new hospital constructions and retrofits.
• Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and their influence on future hospital designs.
• The significance of accessibility and creating supportive environments for patients and staff.

Discover how hospitals serve as community hubs and how healthcare architecture is evolving to meet modern needs. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about how design shapes our well-being, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

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As we wrap up another fantastic year, host Ryan Schwartz reflects on the insightful conversations we've shared. From accessible design to immersive zoo habitats, we've explored how architecture impacts our daily lives. 

Thank you for your continued support—your enthusiasm fuels our passion! We're excited for what's to come in 2025, with even more engaging topics and inspiring guests. 

Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and looking forward to bringing you more thought-provoking content in the new year!

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In this episode of Architecturally Speaking, host Ryan Schwartz talks with Barry Hobin, founding partner of Hobin Architecture, about the vital role of water in architectural design. With over 40 years of experience, Barry shares how rivers, canals, and lakes influence urban planning, particularly in Ottawa, Canada’s capital.

Their conversation explores the historical significance of Ottawa's waterways, the city’s evolution from industrial roots to a more sustainable future, and exciting projects like the redevelopment of LeBretton Flats and the Kanal project. 

Join us for a fascinating look at how water shapes cities and communities.

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Join us for an insightful episode of Architecturally Speaking, as host Ryan Schwartz, dives into the fascinating world of design competitions with architect Joe Lobko. 

Known for his community-focused and socially impactful projects, Joe shares his experiences and insights on the role of design competitions in the architecture industry.

Whether you're a student, a young professional, or simply interested in architecture, this episode offers valuable insights into how design competitions can foster innovation and creativity in the field.

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In this episode of Architecturally Speaking, host Ryan Schwartz is joined by Shonda Wang, Principal at SvN, to explore the concept of transit-oriented communities and their impact on urban development. 

Shonda is a seasoned urban designer and planner with expertise in large-scale urban regeneration projects, and unpacks the importance of creating connections between public spaces, transportation infrastructure, and the built environment in evolving cities. 

Tune in to gain insights into how cities are adapting to accommodate growing populations and the need for sustainable living spaces.

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