About
Overview
At LaLande + Doyle, that kind of symbiosis is our value proposition—the merging of talents; the sharing of vision; the common commitment to creating architectural solutions that satisfy clients’ functional needs and
spatial aspirations.
An equation that works.
What we do
Areas of Practice
Architectural services
We act as trusted advisors to our clients. We draw on decades of architectural experience to:
- Support strategic development activities.
- Develop concepts and consensus based solutions.
- Develop complete and coordinated technical documentation.
- Lead construction, administration and commissioning.
Interior services
Our team creates functional spaces within architectural shells. Their unique perspective on workflows and usage patterns complements the firm’s architectural creativity, and produces spaces with optimal usability.
Historical services
Our team is well versed in the best practices of historical preservation. One of the challenges associated with such work is integrating new technologies and amenities without disturbing heritage elements. We pride ourselves in being able to think outside the box to maintain the integrity of historical structures while meeting the practical needs of our clients and respecting the constraints of time and budget.
Who we are
Key People
Philippe is responsible for the vision and direction of the firm.
What would you say are the hallmarks of great architecture?
Clarity and inventiveness. Clarity makes great architecture look simple and inventiveness makes clarity look beautiful. You approach the perfection of form. Think of the wheel, which isn’t architecture, but is a great example of design. I’d love to meet the person who invented the wheel: it’s been thousands of years, and no one has ever had to reinvent it.
What’s the purpose of architecture?
Architecture has to serve the people. It should stimulate the senses and create a sense of place. That’s what makes so many of the great architectural pieces great. While architecture is a function of time and context, great architecture transcends the likes and dislikes of culture and fashion.
How would you characterize the corporate culture at L+D?
Collegial and supportive. We continually encourage each other to excel, to surpass expectations. As a company, we exceed the sum of our individual parts. And we’re future-minded. I’m a firm believer that we are stewards of the next generation. That’s always a big part of our internal discourse; it’s reflected in what we do corporately and in how we treat each other.
What has been the secret to your success?
Commitment. “Quit” has never been a word in my vocabulary. I think this has always benefited clients: they get my full dedication from beginning to end. You need commitment to work through challenges as they arise—and you know they’re going to. You need confidence to take risks as necessary to develop creative, effective solutions. And trust is essential. It’s why I would never ask someone to do something I’m not prepared to
Louise wears many hats at L+D. She serves as a senior project architect, regularly lends her expertise to heritage development projects, and undertakes office and resource-management responsibilities.
What does it take to be a great architect?
Obviously you need to be a talented designer, but it’s more than that. You have to be a good listener and communicator to identify and understand clients’ needs. You can’t ever lose sight of the fact that you’re designing spaces for people. Our job is to transform our clients’ dreams into built forms.
What is the mark of a successful project?
There’s no greater testament to the success of a project than a client using a building to its fullest potential and, in return, having the building fully respond to the client’s every need.
How would you characterize L+D’s corporate culture?
It breaks stereotypical office conventions. We work as a collective, not a rigid hierarchical machine. There’s mutual respect among all levels of staff. The strengths of one are the strengths of the entire team. We constantly learn from each other—our mistakes and our successes both.
What drives L+D?
Our energy and passion. Every member of our team, regardless of age or experience, shares the same youthful eagerness and curiosity. Architecture is more than just our job, it’s our lifestyle. Our dedication is the result of our passion.