FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OTTAWA – The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) is honoured to announce Pat Hanson of gh3* as the recipient of the 2026 RAIC Gold Medal. The Gold Medal is the highest honour that the Institute can bestow in recognition of a significant and lasting contribution to Canadian architecture.
Pat Hanson has made a unique and sustained contribution to contemporary Canadian architecture. As founding principal of gh3*, she has seamlessly integrated architecture, landscape, infrastructure, and urbanism, while advancing an ethic of environmental responsibility, civic generosity, and design excellence. Her exceptional body of work has been recognized by five Governor General’s Medals.
Her practice has focused on typologies that have largely been overlooked by more mainstream practices, specifically infrastructure buildings. These include water treatment and stormwater facilities, fire station, bus garage and public park pavilions.
One of her most notable is Edmonton’s Borden Park Natural Swimming Pool, the first chemical-free public outdoor pool in the country. Through skillful and rigorously engineered design, Hanson has produced an extraordinary public amenity with a sophisticated ecological system, a generous social and architectural experience, and a work of remarkable clarity and beauty. As with all her infrastructure work the project elevates the building to the level of a civic landmark.
Hanson’s leadership extends well beyond her built work, demonstrating an enduring commitment to mentorship, education and professional advocacy throughout her career.
2026 RAIC Gold Medal Jury Members:
Wayne Guy, FRAIC
Sumayya Vally, Hon. FRAIC
Stephanie Yeung, MRAIC
Ted Watson, FRAIC
Chris Woodford, MRAIC
Learn more about Pat Hanson, see pictures of her work, and read jury comments on the recipient webpage.