Building Sustainable Communities. Designing Bold Futures
About Kaivo Urbain
At Kaivo Urbain, we're more than planners-we're visionaries shaping the cities of tomorrow. Our passion for innovative urban solutions and commitment to sustainability fuel every project we undertake. We work hand-in-hand with developers, municipalities, and landowners across Quebec to create vibrant, livable spaces where people and communities can thrive.
We believe that urban design is not just about shaping the physical environment-it's about creating experiences, fostering connections, and leaving a lasting legacy of progress.
Our Mission
At Kaivo Urbain, our mission is to transform the urban landscape through human-centered, innovative, and sustainable planning. We partner with municipalities, developers, and landowners to design urban spaces that are not only functional but also forward-thinking and transformative. Our designs integrate bold creativity with practical execution, ensuring each project respects the environment, addresses community needs, and sets new benchmarks for modern urban development.
Our mission is to provide expert guidance and solutions in urban planning and design, real estate development, and environmental consulting to developers in Quebec's urban areas.
Our Vision
Our vision is to shape sustainable, resilient, and inclusive communities that inspire connection, foster growth, and create a lasting legacy for future generations. We design cities that are human-centered, environmentally responsible, and resilient, helping communities thrive in the face of change. Every project is an opportunity to push boundaries and make a meaningful impact.
OUR APPROACH
We take a strategic, people-first approach to urban design, guided by three key pillars:
- Collaboration
Our process begins with a deep partnership. We work closely with you to understand your goals, vision, and challenges. By collaborating with stakeholders from day one, we create solutions that truly reflect the needs of the community and the aspirations of our clients. - Sustainability & Resilience
Every design decision is made with sustainability in mind. From eco-friendly materials to energy-efficient systems, we focus on long-term environmental impact. We also design with resilience in mind-preparing communities to thrive in the face of climate change and evolving urban dynamics. - Innovation
We don't shy away from bold ideas. We approach each project with creativity and a problem-solving mindset, ensuring that we're always pushing the envelope to deliver groundbreaking urban spaces. Our solutions go beyond the typical, offering new ways to integrate green infrastructure, foster connectivity, and create adaptable spaces.
OUR STORY
Kaivo Urbain was born out of Kaivo Architecte's recognition of the growing need for specialized urban design solutions. Founded in 2014, Kaivo Architecte quickly realized that urban challenges required more than just architectural solutions-they needed a strategic, creative, and sustainable approach. This led to the creation of a dedicated urban design team, which evolved into Kaivo Urbain in 2023.
Michelle Ladd, a leader in sustainable urban design, joined forces with Kaivo Architecte in 2023 to establish Kaivo Urbain as a sister company. Bringing over 12 years of experience in urban design and sustainability, Michelle's leadership has propelled Kaivo Urbain into a new era of large-scale urban development solutions. With a legacy built on Kaivo Architecte's award-winning projects, Kaivo Urbain is now leading the way in shaping Quebec's urban future.
MICHELLE LADD
Founder and Principal, Kaivo Urbain
Michelle Ladd, a Mexican architect and urban designer, has over 12 years of experience shaping resilient, community-driven cities. With a Master's in Urban Design from Université Laval, Michelle combines a deep understanding of sustainability, inclusive planning, and climate resilience with a decade of consulting for municipalities in Quebec. She has helped guide over 20 municipalities in developing eco-districts, transit-oriented developments (TODS), Retrofitting urban areas in cities and small towns, and flood-prone area strategies, contributing to numerous publications on sustainable communities.
Michelle's work integrates green infrastructure and supports regulatory tools that drive urban transformation, blending architectural expertise with hands-on urban strategy. As the founder of Kaivo Urbain, she continues to pioneer forward-thinking urban solutions that enhance quality of life and create cities that are both functional and transformative.
Why Work with Michelle Ladd?
Michelle is not only a visionary designer but a proven leader who understands urban development at every level. Her dual expertise in architecture and urban planning ensures a practical, innovative approach to every project. At Kaivo Urbain, Michelle brings a unique balance of technical knowledge and creative vision, delivering transformative spaces that meet today's needs while preparing for future challenges.
IMAGINE WHAT WE COULD CREATE TOGETHER
Are you ready to bring your vision to life? Whether you're looking to revitalize a neighborhood, develop a pioneering residential community, or create a public space that fosters connection, Kaivo Urbain is your partner in shaping the future. Let's not just build cities-let's create legacies that inspire future generations.
Unlock the Future of Urban Design
Read our comprehensive guide to discover transformative urban planning strategies and sustainable solutions tailored for Quebec's urban areas.
Transformative Urban Solutions Across Quebec
At Kaivo Urbain, we specialize in providing transformative urban solutions that comply with local regulations and enhance community living standards across Quebec, including Montreal and Gatineau. Our expertise in sustainable development and urban planning ensures that our projects not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients. With a focus on innovation and community impact, we are committed to delivering results that resonate with developers' goals.
"Kaivo Urbain transformed our project in Montreal with their innovative approach to sustainable urban planning. Their expertise in local regulations and community impact was invaluable."
- Real Estate Developer
"Working with Kaivo Urbain was a game-changer for our development in Gatineau. Their commitment to sustainability and professional development set them apart."
- Urban Planner
"Kaivo's understanding of Quebec's urban landscape helped us navigate complex zoning challenges. Their solutions were both practical and innovative."
- Architecture Firm
Kaivo Urbain is a leader in urban planning and design. We specialize in innovative urban solutions and serve clients across Sainte-Marie, Montreal, Gatineau, Sherbrooke, Lévis, Montmagny, Saguenay, Trois-Rivières, Rimouski, Victoriaville, Laval, Longueuil, and the surrounding areas.