“Simply stated, we strive to be great people doing great work.”
the crew
Rick Gendron
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.
Alora McGrandle
Alora helps keep the many moving parts of 818 Studio organized and running smoothly. With a background in operations, administration, and financial management, she supports the team behind the scenes and brings a practical, detail-oriented approach to the day-to-day workings of the studio.
Bobby Mitra
Raised in Manitoba, Bobby developed a deep appreciation for the understated charm of the Canadian prairies. He brings diverse experience from his work with landscape architecture and urban design firms in Winnipeg and Victoria, B.C., as well as with an award-winning Canadian commercial landscape construction company and an award-winning residential landscape design-build firm.
He is a collaborative team member with a strong ability to build productive relationships with design professionals, contractors, tradespeople, and clients. His experience includes detailed design development, tender documentation, contract administration, cost estimating, and budget coordination across a range of project scales.
He is dedicated to creating functional, well-crafted spaces that enhance user experience and meet client goals. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring biking trails, learning to snowboard, spending time with his family, and being outdoors with his dog, Marley.
Preston Toy
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 build-ability.
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.
Bonnie Mikalson
Christine Wardle
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.
Lana Kaioukova
Lana brings a thoughtful, people-focused approach to landscape design, shaped by her background in both urban planning and landscape architecture. Her experience spans parks, public spaces, residential projects, and site planning, with a strong interest in creating spaces that are functional, accessible, and connected to their context.
Rahimeh Rameshi
She brings experience across multiple scales; from regional planning to detailed architectural and landscape design, always with an eye for how nature, culture, and people interact. Her cross-cultural background gives her a unique lens through which she integrates diverse influences into thoughtful, balanced solutions.
Connie Tran
Connie brings a creative and research-driven approach to landscape design, with a background spanning fine arts, landscape architecture, and design research. Her work explores placemaking, public space, cultural design, and hands-on making, with experience carrying ideas from early concept through visualization, engagement, and construction.
Veronica Leonova
Her interests include playground design, site furniture and other small-scale landscape elements, as well as the role of landscape architecture in healthcare and wellness environments. Outside of design, Veronica enjoys live music, skiing, and spending time outside.
