BDP Quadrangle principal Sheldon Levitt is retiring as of June 30, 2021, and will transition to the role of principal emeritus, focusing on key strategic initiatives and projects, and supporting ongoing studio operations.
“It has been a very full and satisfying 34 years,” says Levitt. “BDP Quadrangle has a long tradition of cultivating leadership and design quality within the studio. I am looking forward to supporting our new leaders and continuing to be engaged with the firm, while having more time for volunteer work and family.”
Levitt, in his 34 years with BDP Quadrangle, including 22 years as principal, has led numerous comprehensive mixed-use projects that were consistently at the forefront of establishing highly contextual and evolving ideas about urban architecture. These include: The Morgan Condominium at Richmond and Spadina – one of the first tall buildings in the transformation of the Garment District, and now recognized as a landmark bridging the District’s heritage and contemporary architecture – and The Toy Factory Lofts in Liberty Village – a complex conversion of the former Irwin Toy Company into a live/work community.
For the past 15 years, Levitt has also worked closely with The Remington Group to transform 240 acres of green and brownfield lands into downtown Markham, a new mixed-use pedestrian and transit-oriented community, including 10,000 residential units, offices, retail and a hotel.
Founding principal Les Klein says, “Sheldon’s leadership has helped to cultivate the studio’s reputation for integrity, trustworthiness, reliability and thoughtful city building. He is appreciated by his colleagues and clients as a mentor and a driver of innovation.”
The firm also recently announced the promotion of four new associates, one new senior associate and four new principals.
Frances Hahn, Werner Sommer, Ossie Airewele and Hector Tuminan have been promoted to associate. Lorene Casiez has been promoted to senior associate.
Stefanie Siu Chong, Jesse Klimitz, Dev Mehta and Greg Livingstone have joined the principals group, taking on significant roles in BDP Quadrangle’s firm operations, strategic planning and leadership.
