Ontario Construction News staff writer
Dr. Ian Ellingham as the recipient of the G. Randy Roberts Service Award for exceptional contributions, particularly his dedication to the Niagara Society of Architects (NSA).
The Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) regulates the architecture profession in the public interest. Its annual G. Randy Roberts service award recognizes individuals who exemplify care, compassion, integrity, enthusiasm, and a sense of humour in their service to the membership.
Described as “an esteemed mentor, architect, and ambassador for the profession,” Ellingham has been involved in the NSA for more than a decade, serving as chair since 2016. He has been active in promoting lifelong education and skills development, and ensuring members had opportunities to connect. He also promotes architecture and the built environment in the Niagara region by assisting with walking tours and encouraging architecture students to participate in NSA activities.
Ellingham is currently a land economist at the Quartek Group, a full-service integrated design firm based in St. Catharines.
“His passion for architecture is evident in his multifaceted contributions to both academia and the community,” the OAA said in a statement. “Noteworthy contributions to the built environment include his involvement in the creation of more than 20 social housing projects across the province.
“Non-profit housing projects with which he has been involved include the non-profit seniors’ centres Suomi-Koti Toronto, Stay at Home in Leaside (SAHIL), and Momiji Seniors Residence in Toronto, as well as Lutheran Homes Niagara in Niagara Falls and Faith Lutheran Villa in St. Catharines.
In addition to his work with the NSA, this year’s jury noted his collection of publications and writings, which have significantly contributed to the public’s understanding of architecture in the Niagara Region and beyond.
Ellingham has spent the majority of his architectural career working behind the scenes as a developer with an emphasis on research and academics.
“Research is always the way we uncover new ways of doing things and how we move the profession into the future,” he says. “Education doesn’t end when you pick up your degree or your licence. There’s always another challenge. You’re always learning something. Architecture is a constant learning process. This is actually one of the delightful parts of architecture—it’s one of the reasons why people stay in it forever.”
Ellingham holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Carleton University and an MBA from the University of Western Ontario (now Western University). He later attended the University of Cambridge, earning a Master of Philosophy in Land Economy and a PhD from the Martin Centre for Architectural and Urban Studies.
The G. Randy Roberts Service Award, named in honour of the late 2005 OAA president, will be presented to Dr. Ellingham June 22 at a special event at Science North’s Vale Cavern in Sudbury that also celebrates the selections of the SHIFT2023 Health and Architecture Challenge. The event is part of the OAA’s Conference, “Designing for Dignity.”