Year Twelve unfolded with the pandemic still lingering. Public health orders shifted often, and like everyone else, we continued to adapt, pivot, and reimagine plans on a daily basis. Through it all, our momentum carried us forward—and we checked off another big milestone: Project #600.

We also had the chance to celebrate together in person again. Republic hosted a MASI Design Awards dinner at RAINO, raising a glass to our Retail, Silver award for Project #505. It was more than an award—it was a reminder of how much joy comes from gathering as a team and recognizing the creativity behind the work we love.

Innovation became another hallmark of the year. We combined technology and design in new ways, most memorably with our first drone flight for project #579 at none other than Peggy’s Point Lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia. Seeing one of Canada’s most iconic sites from a whole new perspective underscored the exciting directions project delivery could take.

Connection, as always, remained at the heart of Republic. This year’s highlight was “The Great RAINO Escape,” our very own take on The Amazing Race. The #PeopleOfRepublic brought their competitive spirit and creativity, proving once again that team building doesn’t need to be formal to be meaningful.

Our team itself grew stronger than ever. Maria Dyson and Katie Enns added their talents to the Interiors team. Colin Tait (now, affectionately nicknamed Colly T.) brought leadership and expertise to our mechanical engineering team. Jonathon Kardashinski and Colton Rempel strengthened our architectural technologist team, and Christoph Opitz added his voice, vision, and vast global experience to our architectural team. Each new arrival enriched our culture and expanded our capabilities.

By the end of Year Twelve, our portfolio had reached 645 projects. Momentum was steady, optimism was growing, and for the first time in a long while, it felt like the restrictions and uncertainties of the pandemic might finally be behind us.