HDR Enhances Canadian Practice, Hires Thought Leaders

(December 6, 2011) - HDR has enhanced its architectural practice in Canada by adding four thought leaders to its offices in Ontario. These leaders, with expertise in civic, science + technology, and healthcare design, join more than 200 HDR employees in 10 offices throughout Canada.

Richard Limmert, FRAIC, LEED AP, has joined HDR as a principal for Canada. Residing in HDR's Ottawa office, Limmert will lead the expansion of the civic program and deepen the firm's expertise across a full spectrum of building types. Limmert joins HDR with more than 37 years of design experience, most recently as a principal at Stantec Architecture. Prior to Stantec, Limmert ran his own award-winning practice, Richard LIMMERT Architect Inc., where he developed a reputation for intertwining contemporary architecture with technological innovation. In 2007, Limmert was named a fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC), the highest honour bestowed upon a member of the RAIC.

Rachael Patel, RN, MN, PMP, has joined HDR's Toronto office as a healthcare consultant. As a member of HDR's Healthcare Consulting Group, Patel will work alongside designers and clients to influence designs that drive clinical efficiency, maximize the use of technology, and increase the quality of patient care. Prior to joining HDR, Patel worked in the clinical, research and management consultancy side of the Canadian healthcare system, most recently with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care. With a keen understanding of Canadian healthcare delivery at the Provincial, Local Health Integration Network (LHIN), and provider levels, Patel is an expert at balancing the complex needs of patients with the operational and financial needs of healthcare providers.

Trevor X. Pereira, RIBA, MRAIC, has joined HDR's Toronto office as a lead designer and project director. With experience leading a wide range of complex projects, Pereira will focus on fostering client relationships and leading marketing pursuits throughout Canada and abroad. Prior to joining HDR, Pereira was vice president at Cannon Design and the director of the Cannon Design Indian entity; he was also responsible for starting the firm's Mumbai office. Pereira's project experience has spanned the healthcare, science +technology, education, and recreation industries. He has a thorough understanding of the Public Private Partnership (P3) process and an unwavering commitment to research and the creative exploration of ideas.

Norman Fisher, RIBA, LEED AP, has relocated from HDR's London, UK, office to Toronto to become a member of the leadership team designing Humber River Regional Hospital's new 656-bed hospital. In this role, Fisher will be the key daily interface between HDR, the client, and the consortium team managing the project. As an architect known for his ability to manage complex building design teams, Fisher has designed and delivered buildings for some of the world's largest health and science institutions.  Prior to joining HDR, he was the vice president of Life Sciences at architectsAlliance and a vice president of Science + Technology at HOK.