Behind the Build: Rick Galezowski - Great Lake Studio

Rick Galezowski is the founding principal of Great Lake Studio, a small and nimble architectural practice in Toronto. His work focuses on a selective range of projects, maintaining a strong connection to nature and thoughtful design.

Rick’s path into architecture began at the University of Waterloo, where he earned his degree. During his time there, he participated in the university’s co-op program, which included a transformative placement in Rome. This experience provided him with a broader view of architecture, one that valued both history and innovation.

After graduating, Rick worked at Kohn Shnier Architects, a firm known for its commitment to quality and creative design. It was there that he met Maggie Bennedson, a fellow architect with a shared love for adventure. Their connection grew both professionally and personally, leading to a strong partnership. Together, they shared a love for long bike trips, with both spending years cycling through remote landscapes, living in tents, and immersing themselves in the natural world, including trips from Alaska to the southern tip of Chile, and through Myanmar, Indonesia and more. These travels shaped not only their personal lives but also their approach to architecture, emphasizing simplicity, connection to nature, and a love for the outdoors.

Rick’s passion for the outdoors didn’t stop with cycling. He and Maggie also embarked on backcountry canoe trips, further deepening their bond with the natural world, including their most recent trip into the depths of Ontario, including the highly secluded and rarely travelled Wabakimi Provincial Park. These adventures continue to influence Rick’s design philosophy, as he seeks to create spaces that harmonize with their environments.

In 2015, Rick founded Great Lake Studio, focusing on a small-scale practice that remains agile and dedicated to high-quality projects. The studio’s work reflects his commitment to creating spaces that are functional, elegant, and connected to the landscapes around them. Rick’s approach to architecture is deeply rooted in his experiences, both in the field and on the road, where he’s learned to appreciate the balance between design and nature.

Through his personal and professional journey, Rick Galezowski has developed a unique architectural voice, one that prioritizes authenticity, thoughtful design, and an enduring connection to the world around him.

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