“Simply stated, we strive to be great people doing great work.”
the crew
Rick Gendron
principal + landscape architect
B.ESc., M.L.A., AALA, CSLA
As principal of 818 studio, Rick shapes the culture and direction of the firm. Rick’s focus is on the areas of site planning, design, and project management. Through his varied experiences Rick brings a comprehensive skill set to all projects with the ability to execute unique designs from the conceptual planning stages to the finished construction documents.
Rick’s association with allied design professions, such as architecture and engineering, provide a good grounding for the multifaceted aspects of site design and project management.
Alisha Gorda
landscape architect
B.L.A, B.Env.D., Dip.LAT, AALA
Alisha spends her time exploring Alberta’s natural landscapes, camping in the frontcountry and trekking into the backcountry for more remote camping locations. She understands the restorative experience natural spaces have on the psyche. Alisha’s designs focus on creating a hybrid of developed and native spaces by understanding the functional requirements of urban environments and the desires people inherently have to be connected to nature. Alisha’s designs incorporate aspects of sustainability, low impact development, native plants and an element of the unexpected.
Zoë Crandall
landscape designer
B.Sc., M.L.A., AALA-I
Growing up in Fort McMurray, AB, Zoë developed a love for northern landscapes and ecology. Following this passion, she received a B.Sc in ecology from the University of Alberta before completing her MLA at the University of Calgary.
She brings enthusiasm, energy, and presentation skills honed through performing educational musical shows for Alberta Environment and Parks, and delivering programs for all ages at the Edmonton Public Library. She is passionate about environmental justice and education and has volunteered as an author, researcher, and graphic designer for the Elbow River Watershed Partnership, and the Scarboro Historical Society.
Bonnie Mikalson
landscape designer
B.Ed., M.L.A., AALA-I
An aspiring Renaissance woman, Bonnie has developed an exceptional skillset and an always-be-learning attitude. After ten years of crafting fruitful learning environments as an elementary teacher with the Calgary Board of Education, Bonnie pivoted in pursuit of a career in design. Studying in her hometown of Calgary allowed her local knowledge and expertise to shine.
Bonnie is an explorer at heart. Having traveled to 50+ countries, she comes with a wealth of international inspiration and adoration of efficient, accessible public transit and responsive urban design.