The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada has announced Jerome Markson as its 2022 Gold Medal Winner. The Toronto-based modernist is well known throughout Canada for his award-winning designs and contributions to the fields of architectural education and design theory.

Markson’s social housing projects are often considered to be the basis for the development of what is now considered to be one of the most diverse cities in the world. His designs for healthcare facilities as well as cultural centers and further civic projects contributed a considerable amount to the visual language of his native country throughout his vaunted six-decade career. 

Writing on the RAIC’s website, the jury commended Markson for his “lifelong commitment to humanism, inclusivity and generosity, teaching us valuable lessons about urban housing and its critical relationship to city building.” 

“His work epitomizes a deep caring towards those who will use and enjoy his projects as well as the communities in which they exist,” the citation continued. “Many architects will offer praise by referring to colleagues as an ‘architect’s architect’. Jerome Markson is certainly deserving of the title ‘planner’s architect’ — quite possibly a more difficult and exceptional achievement within the profession.”

Markson was born to Lithuanian parents in Toronto in 1929 and went on to study architecture at the University of Toronto. He began practicing in the office of Venchiarutti & Venchiarutti in the early 1950s and operated his own eponymous firm in the city from 1955 until his official retirement in 2015. 

“Jerome has contributed at every stage of his long career to the architectural design community. He has mentored many architects who have contributed to the quality and character of the built environment.” KPMB founder Bruce Kuwabara attested. “Through his thoughtful and determined work, he has made Toronto a better city, a more worldly, cosmopolitan place that expresses conviviality through architecture.”  

The Gold Medal is the RAIC’s highest honor and is meant to recognize architects such as Markson, whose lasting body of work resonates throughout the culture whilst leaving behind a demonstrable legacy of social justice, sustainability, and commitment to future generations.

“By recognizing Jerome Markson, the RAIC will dignify the architectural calling of city-building, and confirm the award is for the totality of a lifelong practice,” critic Trevor Boddy added finally. “With his personal and public modesty, his commitment to serving diverse strata of society, and to improving our cities thoughtfully, Jerome Markson exemplifies the best of Canadian values, and deserves this honor.”