“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.

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.

Bobby Mitra

senior landscape designer

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.