Kasian has announced that JP Thornton has joined its Toronto office as Principal and Commercial Leader, effective May 24, 2016. In this role, Thornton will provide insight and leadership to Kasian’s Commercial Market Sector in Toronto and across Ontario.

Thornton, a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects and Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, has over 25 years of experience and has led the design of several million square feet of developments, including one of the largest privately funded transit-oriented projects in North America. Thornton’s work uses people-friendly design to create innovative, community-based environments. His specialty is in urban intensification, mixed-use communities and matching land use with mobility.

“I’m excited to be part of the Kasian team,” said Thornton in a press release. “City building is going through an extraordinary evolution and Kasian’s diverse market-sector experience and knowledge is a great foundation for the design of our future places.”

Thornton’s past positions include Director of Practice for VIA Architecture in Vancouver and Principal and Sector Leader with Stantec in Toronto. He has held talks at Toronto’s Revitalizing Downtowns Summit, the City of Vancouver’s Eco Density Series and the Planning Institute of B.C.’s annual general meeting. Thornton also sits on the Urban Design Advisory Panel of Mississauga, which is Canada’s sixth-largest municipality.

“JP’s expertise in mixed-use and urban transportation will augment our proficiency in the design, planning and project management of these building types, particularly in our Toronto office,” said Don Kasian, president and founder of the design firm. “JP has developed an enviable reputation as an entrepreneur and leader, essential qualities that are key to our growth.”