Product Description

HISTORY

Founded by Steven Kirshenblatt and Clifford Korman as Kirshenblatt Korman Architects in 1981, KIRKOR Architects and Planners is recognized as one of the leading practices in Canada undertaking large-site, urban intensification projects comprising complex, mixed-use programs. From our early successes on major urban projects in Vancouver to masterplans for municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area, KIRKOR’s experience and knowledge base continues to grow as Carlos Antunes (2001), Brent Whitby (2008) and David Butterworth (2010) have joined the partnership. Building on our past experience, together with a dynamic studio culture, KIRKOR is driving a new urban analysis focused on addressing the urgent demands of our growing cities. KIRKOR pursues a discipline of architecture that speaks directly to the context of its setting. We invite deep questioning, responding to what we hear, and believe this is absolutely necessary to fulfill both the aspirations of our clients and those who live among our work. KIRKOR will continue to lead the way with visionary thinking and transcending design solutions to create desirable, multi-faceted, sustainable communities.

VALUES

KIRKOR believes in active leadership. In every phase of a project – from first concept to final completion – direct involvement and oversight of partners is central to the way we work. This approach reflects our philosophy of service. And it fuels the strength of our firm. We fully embrace the responsibility to foster close relationships with all of our partners and stakeholders, from local residents to civic officials. Design solutions are found in the voices of many. And careful listening encourages a strong, collaborative and supportive project community that is essential to executing complex urban intensification efforts. This spirit of collaboration informs all aspects of KIRKOR’s work, including how we support our growing studio. Partner involvement is essential to our process, pushing us to continually test and re-test designs. This approach allows for a more inclusive and thoughtful engagement of many perspectives. It informs better strategies. It develops better leaders. And it is fundamental to our project success.