TMU Alumnus Edward Jose Wins Glen-Gery Architect Collaboration Program Award

The Department of Architectural Science proudly congratulates Edward Jose, Studio Director and Partner at Loci Architecture (external link) , and a graduate of our program in 1989, for being named one of the winners in Glen-Gery (external link) ’s inaugural Architect Collaboration Program, an initiative that invited architects, designers and students to submit original designs for custom brick shapes. Edward’s innovative brick design, Curve, exemplifies how creativity and sustainability can redefine architectural practices.

The Curve brick introduces an elongated, curved form that achieves versatile wall configurations, enhances sound diffusion, and optimizes material use. The design was inspired by Edward’s visit to the University of Virginia, where Thomas Jefferson’s serpentine garden walls impressed him with their strength, efficiency, and minimal use of materials. “I thought about designing a brick with a certain curvature that could be thinner and longer, using less material but achieving a certain amount of strength,” Edward explained.

From TMU to New York City

Edward’s journey began at Toronto Metropolitan University, where he credits his professors for fostering a sense of curiosity and confidence in exploring diverse architectural directions. After graduating, he pursued further studies at Dalhousie University before starting his career in New York City, where he has practiced for over 30 years.

His firm, Loci Architecture, specializes in exterior restoration, facade work, and renovation projects, with a focus on environmentally sensitive design. “Whenever we can, we aim to reduce and reuse materials and prioritize low-toxicity products,” said Edward. His extensive experience with brickwork made him a natural fit for the Glen-Gery collaboration, though he noted, “I had never designed a brick before.”

A Sustainable and Human-Centric Material

Edward’s Curve brick is not just aesthetically striking but also environmentally conscious. Made from locally sourced clay and fired without toxic additives, bricks remain one of the most sustainable building materials. “Unlike metals and plastics, bricks are made of clay from the earth. It’s a centuries-old material with high thermal mass, making it both eco-friendly and functional,” Edward said.

The design’s versatility allows it to be used selectively in portions of facades or as a feature wall, creating dynamic effects through projections and shadows. “We try to design facades with a scale that people can relate to. Bricks contribute to a human sensibility—they’re constructed by people, giving them a tactile, human quality.”