“Simply stated, we strive to be great people doing great work.”

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 in architecture and engineering fields provide a good grounding for the multifaceted aspects of site design and project management.

Christine Wardle

landscape designer

Hon. BEDP., M.L.A., LEED Green Associate

Christine’s career is rooted in a strong understanding of ecological restoration and environmental sustainability, informed by both hands-on fieldwork and formal education. Her background spans landscape maintenance, plant nursery operations, and sustainability initiatives, providing her with practical expertise in managing and restoring complex ecosystems.

She approaches projects with a focus on harmonizing urban development and natural systems, aiming to create resilient landscapes that enhance both ecological function and human experience. Christine’s work is driven by a commitment to integrating sustainable practices into everyday environments and delivering measurable environmental benefits for communities and stakeholders.

Zoë Crandall

studio director

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.

Tammy Swedburg

operations manager, H&S coordinator

As 818’s Operations Manager, Tammy wears a lot of hats; Health and Safety Coordinator, Accounting, HR, Project Manager, the list goes on! Her background includes managing compliance, contracts, and financial systems for small and mid-sized businesses, coordinating with clients, tenants, and trades, and leading teams through periods of growth and transition. This foundation gives Tammy a strong understanding of how thoughtful systems, clear communication, and care for people can shape a healthy and productive workplace.

Tammy’s motivation comes from seeing her team empowered and excel, and she believes strongly in the power of a collaborative, cohesive team. She gets inspired by pushing past her limits and being outside of her comfort zone- like when she went skydiving to prove that pushing past fears is a great way to accomplish things.

When not at the studio, you can find Tammy jamming out to Country and 80’s (the classics!) and connecting with family and friends, maybe even over a golf game or two. 

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.

Preston Toy

senior landscape designer

Preston’s passion for landscape began in the Rocky Mountains with roots in turfgrass management, golf course architecture, and sports field design. A graduate of NAIT’s Landscape Architectural Technology program with further studies in Urban Design and Sustainable Community Development at SFU, he brings over 15 years of experience managing projects across Western Canada, from parks planning to multi-family residential neighbourhoods. 

Driven by the challenge of blending creativity with construction – Preston crafts spaces that are functional, authentic, and grounded in the landscape to connect people and place. Dynamic and visionary, his superpower is the ability to guide a project from concept to completion, balancing design intent with technical precision and real-world buildability.

On his off days, you’ll find Preston perfecting his swing on the golf course or baseball diamond, in the kitchen trying out a new recipe, or traveling the world with his camera to capture life’s best moments.