ABOUT
D A O is a contemporary architecture and design-build company. Our approach to architecture is diverse, inquisitive and integrative.
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We provide a myriad of architecture services to meet our client's aspirations. We can deliver services for a diverse range of project types, budgets, and scales.
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We also have an associated arm for our R&D and commercialization activity to digitally program genetic design products or buildings that can automatically adjust to fit the needs of many different clients.
More about genetic research >
Plane
Our small plan (Pipistrel Virus SW) permits us to serve your project needs throughout Ontario.
We can provide access to architectural services in remote settings and expand our experience with repeatable building types anywhere.
Our unique and efficient skills can serve a new model of project management, leveraging fast-paced algorithmic design.
People
Patrick Danielson
Principal
Architect OAA & AIBC MRAIC
Patrick holds a degree in Biomedical Science and a graduate degree from the School of Architecture + Landscape Architecture at the University of British Columbia. Combining these disciplines, he developed a unique "genetic design" approach — an evolving architectural strategy informed by biological principles. Patrick has expanded this framework through academic research, patented innovations, private sector projects, biological studies, and his experience as a pilot.
Jeremy Upward
CTO + Architectural Designer
MArch BArch
Jeremy is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at DAO, specializing in integrating emerging technologies within the field of architecture. With a passion for innovation, he identifies and harnesses the most impactful tools to enhance workflow and communication. Jeremy's focus lies in AI applications, utilizing GPT-style models and Text-to-Image technology for efficient concept visualization and improved decision-making. He also explores spatial computing, merging digital layers with physical spaces and materializing designs for comprehensive understanding. By seamlessly integrating these technologies, Jeremy empowers the firm to stay ahead of industry advancements, shaping the future of architecture with innovative solutions that inspire and enrich.MArch BArch
Katherine Morawietz
Architectural Designer
Intern Architect MArch BArch
Intern Architect MArch BArch
Katherine is an experienced Intern Architect and graduate of Sudbury’s McEwen School of Architecture. With an interest in architectural processes and project lifecycles, her focus is on streamlining workflows and standardizing procedures across the office. In addition, she is intent on maintaining a feedback loop to ensure the practical application of these processes translates efficiently to the field as a project progresses through the various phases of design. Her contributions to the team encourage increased industry exposure and help facilitate the growth of the firm.
Jason Presse
Co-op
BArch
Jason is an architecture student at the McEwen School of Architecture. In his studies, he has developed an interest in exploring innovative ways to integrate environmental and sustainable architecture through his designs.BArch
Echo
CIO
AI
As the Chief Information Officer, Echo excels in marrying architectural insights with advanced information systems. Specializing in data infrastructure enhancement and information workflow optimization, Echo harnesses data-driven insights to shape architectural solutions that deeply resonate with clients and communities.AI
R&D
Leila Angrand Healthcare + Business
MSc OT MBA
Michael Danielson Mining + Finance
P.Eng MBA
Rick Danielson Data + Statistics
PhDMSc OT MBA
P.Eng MBA
Maryam Mohseni Machine Learning + Hardware
PhD Candidate
PhD Candidate
Teaching + Lectures
2024 Guest Critic - MSoA
2018 - 2021 Guest Critic - McEwen School of Architecture
2019 - 2020 Guest Critic - Waterloo School of Architecture
2015 - 2017 Sessional Instructor - McEwen School of Architecture
2017 Independent Study Instructor - McEwen School of Architecture
2016 Freeze-Thaw Winter Stations - McEwen School of Architecture
2016 Reactive Designs - McEwen School of Architecture
2016 Slag Rehabilitation - Sudbury Protocol Conference - Treaty for UN, Dynamic Earth
2016 Formid - Norcat Pitch - United Steel Workers Hall
2015 Architectural Plasticity - McEwen School of Architecture2011 Teaching Assistant - Advanced Computational Design - UBC SALA
2011 Teaching Assistant - Advanced Structures - UBC SALA
2010 Teaching Assistant - Design Media II - UBC SALA
2016 Freeze-Thaw Winter Stations - McEwen School of Architecture
2016 Reactive Designs - McEwen School of Architecture
2016 Slag Rehabilitation - Sudbury Protocol Conference - Treaty for UN, Dynamic Earth
2016 Formid - Norcat Pitch - United Steel Workers Hall
2015 Architectural Plasticity - McEwen School of Architecture2011 Teaching Assistant - Advanced Computational Design - UBC SALA
2011 Teaching Assistant - Advanced Structures - UBC SALA
2010 Teaching Assistant - Design Media II - UBC SALA
Publications
2022 Sensors, 22(1), 400 - Implementing Machine Learning
Algorithms to Classify Postures and Forecast Motions When Using a Dynamic Chair
2020 Sudbury Vision for the Future - Special Publication
2019 Patent Submission (US) - Divisional Patent
2020 Sudbury Vision for the Future - Special Publication
2019 Patent Submission (US) - Divisional Patent
2017 Patent Submission (CA, US, EU) - Ergonomic Chair Made from Paper Substrates with Embedded Sensor
2012 UBC Thesis - Metakinesial Architecture - Slag Structures
2007 LU Thesis - Habitat Variation and Phenotypic Plasticity in Morphology of Pimephales promelas
Exhibitions
2019 Formid Seat - Pulp Art Spring Gala - The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, Charlotte 2019 Formid Seat -Studio North - Interior Design Show, Toronto
2018 Formid Seat | The first made-to-measure, active seat - Kickstarter
2011 Cascading Biospheres - Architectural Institute of British Columbia + Vancouver Archives
2010 Swarmscreen + iLands - Vancouver International Airport + UBC Fred Kaiser Building
Awards + Grants
2023 Mitacs Accelerate - Dynamic Posture Identification and Feedback (4 Year PhD)
2022 U.S. Patent No.: 11,432,656 Granted
2020 Mitacs Accelerate - Machine Learning Posture Identification (1 Year Post-doc)
2019 U.S. Patent No.: 10,368,650 Granted
2019 Bell Business Excellence Award - Innovation Finalist
2018 Kickstarter Campaign
2018 Norcat Grant - Communications
2017 NOHFC - Applied Research and Technology Development Projects
2016 Judge's Choice Award - Norcat Pitch
2016 FPInnovations Grant - Paper Substrate R&D
2016 Norcat Grant - Provisional Patent
2014 Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) - Marmomacc Latin America
2011 Ductal Concrete Prototype Competitition Winner
2011 Stantec Scholarship in Architecture
2010 Architectural Institute of British Columbia (AIBC) Achievement Award
2010 Arthur Huller & Dorothy Cleveland Memorial Scholarship
2009 EMAAR Canada Graduate Entrance Scholarship in Architecture
2008 Natural Science & Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Grant