This year marks a meaningful milestone for Merrick Architecture as we celebrate 40 years of serving communities across the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. What began as a small practice in Gaolers Mews has grown into a collaborative studio shaped by talented individuals, dedicated clients, and trusted partners who have all played a role in our journey. More than an anniversary, this moment offers an opportunity to reflect with gratitude—on the people, the projects, and the communities that have defined our work over the past four decades.

Our story traces its roots through several chapters, beginning with Chandler Kennedy, evolving into Paul Merrick Architects, and ultimately becoming Merrick Architecture Ltd. Guided by the vision and mentorship of founders Paul Merrick and Roger Bayley, the firm developed a culture grounded in thoughtful design, collaboration, and respect for the communities we serve. Today, that legacy continues through our current partners and team, who carry forward the values that shaped the firm’s beginnings while adapting to the evolving needs of our cities and communities.

Over the past 40 years, our projects have become part of the broader story of the region. From landmark developments to community institutions, each building contributes to the evolving fabric of the places we live and work. Projects such as Vancouver’s Olympic Village, SFU Segal School of Business, The Bay Site in Victoria, Sewells Landing, City Square, the Electra Building and Cathedral Place have helped shape urban neighbourhoods, while places like the Orpheum Theatre renewal, and the Bill Reid Gallery Renovation connect architecture with culture and history. Across British Columbia, projects including the Vancouver Island Cancer Centre, Westwood Plateau, St. Michaels University School, the UVic David Turpin Building, the Courtenay Public Library, the Riverway Golf Clubhouse, and the Klahoose Multi-Centre reflect our commitment to civic life, education, recreation, and community wellbeing.

Behind every project is a team. Merrick Architecture would not have had the impact it has today without the dedication, creativity, and loyalty of our past and present staff. Their commitment—often expressed through long hours, careful attention to detail, and a shared sense of purpose—has shaped every building we have designed. We are deeply grateful for the many individuals who have contributed their ideas, energy, and expertise over the years. Their work has left a lasting mark not only on our projects, but also on the culture and values of the firm itself.

As we celebrate this anniversary, we also look forward. We extend our sincere thanks to the clients, consultants, builders, and collaborators who have trusted us and worked alongside us throughout the years. Through changing cities, evolving communities, and the many challenges that come with shaping the built environment, these partnerships have demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and shared commitment. Together, we have created places where people gather, learn, work, and live. Looking ahead, we remain committed to designing spaces that respect their context, support their communities, and give a voice to the people they serve.

Forty years is both a milestone and a beginning. With gratitude for the past and confidence in the resilience that has carried us this far, Merrick Architecture is proud to continue designing for the communities that matter—places where people feel respected, heard, and connected. As we begin the next chapter, we remain guided by the same values that have shaped our work for decades: collaboration, thoughtful design, and a deep commitment to the people and communities we serve.