Based in our Toronto studio, Nicole joined DIALOG in 2017 and has since become a voice for the practice in both urban design and architecture. An accomplished architect and urban designer with a vision for inclusive design, Nicole draws on a wealth of experiences and accomplishments to create spaces that advance diversity, equity, and sustainability, inspiring communities locally and globally through community engagement and human-centred design.
Nicole’s advocacy for social equity has garnered attention in prominent publications such as World Architecture Community, Dezeen, Aspire, and FRAME magazine. She established the Community Wellbeing Award for DesignTO and showcased her award-winning thesis, UKUBUTHA, at major design events, including Design Indaba and Dutch Design Week. Over the years, Nicole is an alum “Global Shaper,” of the World Economic Forum, and was the only Canadian representative, selected among 50 global emerging practitioners, for the Inaugural Biennale College Architettura at the Biennale di Venezia. In 2024, Nicole won the 10th Annual Design Commission of the Miami Design District for her work Pearl Jam, a public art installation that celebrates the work of the Ndebele tribe.
A creative thinker and communicator, Nicole is a key contributor to the practice’s commitment to ethical design and elevating living standards.
What’s your favorite DIALOG project?
The PEEL Regional Police New Divisional Building stands out as my favorite DIALOG project. It truly pushes a new narrative about how design interfaces with the community, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility in ways that redefine traditional perceptions of civic architecture. This project exemplifies how DIALOG is breaking boundaries and challenging expectations, creating spaces that foster connection and reflect the evolving needs of the community. It’s a testament to the practice’s commitment to innovative, human-centered design that has a meaningful social impact.
How do you hope your work positively impacts our communities and environment?
I like to bring a positive sparkle to my work and the office. I absolutely love the people I work with and feel so grateful to be part of a team that inspires me every day. Together, I hope we continue to create meaningful designs that bring joy, foster connection, and reflect our shared commitment to keep “winning” with the impactful work we do.
If you could work a ‘day-in-the-life’ of another discipline/department at DIALOG, whose would it be?
I’d work with DIALOG’s interior design team, known for their award-winning work on institutional projects. Their ability to create meaningful, functional spaces within complex environments is truly inspiring. The way they thoughtfully integrate design elements to enhance both the user experience and the broader architectural vision is something I deeply admire, and I’d love to learn from their innovative approach.
“I wake up driven by curiosity and the desire to outgrow the person I was yesterday, inspired to create with purpose and intention.”
Master of Architecture
Azrieli School of Architecture & Urbanism, Carleton University
Bachelor’s Degree of Architecture: Urbanism Concentration (with distinction)
Azrieli School of Architecture & Urbanism, Carleton University