Architecture is not neutral.

The built environment shapes, and is shaped by, societal power dynamics. As it is currently practiced, architecture is deeply enmeshed in interconnected systems of capitalism and the patriarchy. Projects are regularly designed in service of economic interests and perpetuate systemic inequalities.

At Lemon Papaya, we practice another way. We centre human needs and lived experiences at every stage of the design process.

We ask: 

  • How can design operate outside systemic power dynamics?

  • How can design increase justice and equity?

  • How can design dismantle oppression?

Vision

A world where design operates outside systemic power dynamics, strengthens ecological and cultural resilience, and nurtures communities through compassion, rest, and joy. A world where the places we share are created with the people who use them; where design works with natural systems, honours culture, and actively dismantles inequity.

Our Values

  • Justice + Equity

    Every decision works toward dismantling oppression and redistributing power. We take apart systems of exclusion through equitable and restorative spatial practices.

  • Ecological + Cultural Integrity

    Our approach integrates environmental resilience with cultural awareness. We design in harmony, rooted with existing natural and social systems.

  • Compassion + Vulnerability

    Our work is anchored in research, reflection, and action. We design with empathy, humility, and openness.

  • Radical Belonging

    We craft spaces that reflect the richness and plurality of the communities who inhabit them; spaces where everyone can see themselves, and thrive.

  • Rest + Joy

    Our process honours the humanity of all involved. We prioritise care over output alone.

  • Collaboration over Control

    Communities are not ‘consulted.’ They are co-creators. Participation is the foundation.

Mission

Lemon Papaya creates inclusive, resilient spaces through deep project-specific research that blends ecological wisdom and cultural insight with participatory design. We turn spatial justice principles into actionable, fundable, and community-owned design solutions that earn community trust, meet equity and climate mandates, unlock funding, and deliver places people actually thrive in. 

We honour that Lemon Papaya works in amiskwacîwâskahikan on Treaty 6 territory and within the Métis Nation homeland. This is and has long been home to the Nêhiyawak (Cree), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Dene, and Nakota Sioux peoples, and to the Métis. We also recognize the Papaschase Cree, whose homelands include what is now the city. The river that holds this place, kisiskâciwani‑sîpiy, the swift‑flowing North Saskatchewan, reminds us that relationship is movement and responsibility. Acknowledgement for us is not a line before business. It is practice. Our work is collaborative design for collective liberation.