Shannon Baker holds a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Guelph (2000) and a Master of Urban Design Studies from the University of Toronto (2013). Her practice has involved award winning work across Canada and internationally, and has always been situated at the intersection of landscape, ecology, and urbanism. She is passionate about urban rewilding, reconnecting people with nature, and regenerative design.
Through her work at Waterfront Toronto, Shannon has led some of the most complex and transformative work on the waterfront, including The Bentway Phase I and the recently opened Biidaasige Park, a part of the $1.4B Port Lands Flood Protection (PLFP) Project. As Project Director, Parks and Public Realm, she is grateful to have played a significant role in a project in which landscape architects have been a driving force from its inception through to its construction.
Throughout her work in both the private and public sectors, Shannon has always valued the opportunity to work in a truly integrated and multi-disciplinary way. In various leadership roles she has always recognized the importance of mentorship, and the value of working in a human-centred and collaborative way. Whether through guest lectures, studio reviews or field tours, she will always welcome the opportunity to share with students the multitude of gifts the profession of landscape architecture offers. She has also volunteered for the OALA as a reviewer for Intern Members, on the Ground magazine editorial board, and on the Practice Legislation Committee, in an effort to give back to the profession that has given her so much.
Shannon is grateful to have had the benefit of a family that understands the value of a good woody walk, and for the professors, colleagues, mentors, clients, communities and the land and water that have all enriched her practice, and her life, in countless ways.
Images:
- PLFP
- PLFP Nature Play
- The Bentway
