The School of Architecture is proud to celebrate the achievements of Elisia Neves (BArch ’08, MArch ’12), who was recognized with the Alumni Achievement Medal for Professional Achievement at this year’s University of Waterloo Faculty of Engineering Awards Dinner.
Hosted by Dean Mary Wells, the annual celebration highlights graduates whose work exemplifies Waterloo Engineering’s values of innovation, impact and leadership. This year’s event shone a light on alumni who are strengthening communities, advancing sustainable design practices and mentoring the next generation of thinkers and makers.
Among them, Neves stood out as a model of architectural excellence rooted in community, collaboration, and purpose.
As the founder and principal of Fabrik Architects in Cambridge, Ontario, Neves has built a practice known for thoughtful, people‑centred work. Her portfolio spans adaptive reuse, heritage restoration, and the creation of healthy, collaborative workplaces—projects that not only solve spatial challenges but contribute meaningfully to the cultural and social fabric of the communities they serve.
Her studio, located in the vibrant Gaslight District, has also become more than a workspace: it’s a creative hub. Fabrik frequently hosts exhibitions featuring Waterloo Architecture students and collaborates with local partners to support community‑based events and learning opportunities. Neves’ commitment to fostering a culture of exchange reflects values at the heart of our school: curiosity, stewardship, and engagement.
Her dedication to mentorship has been recognized through awards such as the Young Entrepreneur Award and Construction Canada’s Emerging Leaders Award, each celebrating her ability to pair design excellence with leadership and community impact.
Neves describes her work as deeply collaborative, shaped by long‑standing relationships with clients and industry partners. At Fabrik Architects, design begins with listening: understanding the client’s vision, context, and constraints so solutions can be both creative and feasible. The studio’s philosophy of strong designs come from strong client relationships guides every stage of development. From initial concept through technical refinement, Fabrik’s team consults closely with contractors, engineers and consultants to ensure clarity, quality, and lasting value in every project.
Elisia’s recognition at the Engineering Awards Dinner reflects both her individual accomplishments and the broader impact Waterloo Architecture alumni continue to have on the profession and the communities they serve.
We are proud to celebrate her achievements and to see the ways she continues to inspire our students, champion inclusive design practices, and enrich the architectural landscape across Ontario.