This esteemed recognition highlights his exceptional contributions to the architectural profession, his visionary leadership, and his relentless commitment to shaping communities through innovative design. In being named a Fellow, Vaidila joins an esteemed list of some of Canada’s most distinguished architects who have positively transformed our nation’s built environment. 

With nearly 40 years at Zeidler, Vaidila has been instrumental in expanding the firm’s national and international presence. He began working with Eberhard Zeidler during his studies at the University of Toronto, where Zeidler was his thesis advisor, and joined the firm full-time in 1990. Under the mentorship of Zeidler, he honed his design expertise, contributing to landmark projects like the Toronto Centre of the Arts. His leadership extended globally, including a tenure as Design Director in Zeidler’s Berlin office from 1993 to 1996 and helping establish the Beijing office in 2001. His influence has also been profound across Canada, contributing to projects such as CF’s Calgary City Centre and guiding Zeidler’s evolution into a collaborative, multi-studio practice.

Vaidila’s work is characterized by a blend of creative vision and technical expertise, resulting in complex, award-winning projects. His work with international collaborators has produced notable projects, including the Student Learning Centre (SLC) at Toronto Metropolitan University (with Snøhetta) and the Rudy Adlaf Bridge at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (with WilkinsonEyre). His ongoing involvement in the Block 2 Parliamentary Precinct Redevelopment, in partnership with David Chipperfield Architects, continues to shape Canada’s architectural landscape.

As Chair of the Canadian Large Firm Roundtable, Vaidila has championed collaboration and innovation within the architectural community. He has led critical discussions on industry challenges, advocated for progressive policies, and strengthened connections among Canada’s leading firms. His leadership has been a driving force behind initiatives promoting excellence, sustainability, and the future of architectural practice.

Vaidila’s election as a Fellow of the RAIC is a fitting recognition of his transformative influence on Zeidler and his lasting contributions to architecture. This accolade not only honours his past achievements but also underscores his continued impact on the architectural community and the built environment. We look forward to the inspiration he will continue to bring to the profession and the legacy of excellence he will uphold at Zeidler.

This year’s Fellows will be formally inducted into the College of Fellows at the Convocation and Investiture ceremony on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in conjunction with the 2025 Conference on Architecture in Montreal, QC. Congratulations to all of 2025’s RAIC Fellows!

Learn more about this year’s RAIC Fellows here.

Read more on Vaidila here.