McGill School of Architecture — ARCH673
Studio Instructors
Shane Laptiste | shane@socadesign.ca
Rebecca Taylor | rebecca.taylor@mcgill.ca
Shane Lapiste & Rebecca Taylor have come
together to develop this studio over their common interest in architecture that
serves the public and spaces that have a story to tell. We have a shared belief
that people have a critical role to play in the transformation of their
environment and their involvement in the process of design results in spaces
that have the capacity to create true connections; building more active,
engaged and resilient cities.
A Montrealer, based in Toronto, Shane is the founder and principal of SOCA | Studio of Contemporary Architecture, his practice encompasses a range of project types with a focus on designing gathering spaces, from storefront art spaces to major arenas. A current project, the Wildseed Centre for Art and Activism has a goal to be a transfeminist, queer affirming space politically aligned with supporting Black liberation work across Canada. His past and current work with non-profit organizations includes publishing a visual arts magazine, managing and building affordable housing, and organizing architecture exhibitions.
The studio is deeply engaged in research and the broader discourse of architecture's impact on culture, the environment and the shaping of cities. Amongst other recognition, SOCA was recently selected as one of twenty emerging practices in Canada by Twenty + Change and Canadian Architect. The studio is contributing to Canada’s representation at the 2023 Venice Biennale of Architecture.
Rebecca Taylor is an architectural designer for Saucier + Perrotte Architects in Montreal, Canada. She is currently working on the transformation of the MAC Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art. Her practice focuses on public spaces and explores ways of enhancing the dynamic relationship between the built environment and the people who inhabit it. Her interest in how social issues influence today's urbanism and architecture has led her to explore design solutions combining various disciplines, at many scales—from small hand-held creations, to urban master plans. Previously, she was Product Design Director for interaction design studio Daily tous les jours. She has also worked at the Canadian Center for Architecture (Montreal), Lateral Office (Toronto) and Skidmore Owings and Merrill (New York). Her work has been published and exhibited internationally in Canada, the United States, Italy, Argentina, Japan, Singapore and the Netherlands. She received a Master of Architecture with distinction from the Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design from the University of Toronto, and a B.Sc.Arch with distinction from McGill University School of Architecture.